The Park Presents: Settle into Stockholm – An Insightful Conversation with Caroline Werner

Adapting to a new city, language, and culture can be a daunting experience for international newcomers. In Stockholm, Settle into Stockholm has become a trusted partner for many individuals navigating these challenges. Since its inception in 2011, the organization, founded and led by Caroline Werner, has provided personalized support to help people integrate into Swedish society. With The Park’s commitment to fostering connections and showcasing inspiring initiatives, we are delighted to present Caroline Werner’s insights into her impactful work.

A Strong Linguistic Foundation

Caroline Werner’s expertise stems from her extensive background in languages and linguistics, having studied Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, French, Journalism and Communication at Stockholm University. She has also studied German, Spanish, Latin, Persian and advanced English. She was born and raised in Stockholm, but grew up speaking English with her father and has lived in England and Australia for a while. Her fluency in English has helped her a lot to communicate with her clients and being able to answer their questions in English. 

Her knowledge of other languages provides her with valuable insights into the learning process, enabling her to empathize with her clients and adapt her methods to their needs.

This linguistic proficiency also equips her with the ability to teach Swedish in a structured, relatable manner. “It’s not enough to simply know Swedish; teaching requires an understanding of how the language is structured and being able to explain it in a clear and pedagogical way,” Caroline says. 

The Journey to Settle into Stockholm

Caroline’s journey to founding Settle into Stockholm was fueled by her desire to bridge the gap for international residents seeking to thrive in Sweden. The organization offers a range of services, including private and group-based language courses tailored to specific professional fields, such as healthcare. Caroline has also employed her mother Thérèse Werner, who is a qualified teacher and the author of several course books, specialised in Medical Swedish. Together they offer tailored Swedish courses and official exams on advanced levels, helping foreign doctors, nurses, dentists and veterinarians to get a job in Sweden. Many of their clients are now working at for example Karolinska Hospital. 

What distinguishes Settle into Stockholm from other relocation services is its emphasis on personal face-to-face interaction and tailored courses, in private or in small groups. 

“While many competitors focus exclusively on pre-recorded online courses and apps, we prioritize personal engagement, creating a space where clients feel comfortable asking questions and practicing Swedish in a real-world context,” says Caroline.

Overcoming Challenges in Integration

Helping clients adapt to life in Stockholm comes with its challenges. Many newcomers fear making mistakes when speaking Swedish, which can hinder their progress. Establishing meaningful social connections can also be difficult, particularly when English often serves as the default language.

Caroline encourages her clients to overcome these barriers by starting to speak Swedish as early as possible, even if it is not perfect. This proactive approach builds confidence and accelerates learning. Additionally, she advises clients to seek out Swedish friends and immerse themselves in the culture to foster deeper integration.

Adapting to Trends in the Industry

The rise of digital platforms has significantly transformed the language-learning industry, with apps and online courses offering convenient alternatives. However, Caroline observes a continued demand for in-person instruction. “Many people value physical meetings for the personal connection and interactive experience they provide,” she notes.

Key Tips for Newcomers to Stockholm

Caroline emphasizes the importance of learning Swedish early to navigate life in Stockholm effectively. She advises newcomers to engage with the language daily—watching Swedish TV programs, listening to music in Swedish, reading the news in simple Swedish, and practicing casual conversations in their everyday life. Practical steps, such as obtaining a Swedish personal number, bank ID, and Swish, are also essential for integration.

Moreover, participating in social activities and joining local communities can help newcomers combat the challenges of long, dark winters and build a support network. “A proactive approach to connecting with others and exploring Swedish culture is crucial for a successful transition,” she highlights.

A Personal Touch and Lasting Impact

The success of Settle into Stockholm lies in Caroline Werner’s unwavering dedication to her clients. By fostering a supportive and engaging environment, she empowers them to embrace their new lives in Sweden with confidence and enthusiasm. For anyone contemplating a move to Stockholm, Caroline and her team offer not just a service but a pathway to belonging and success.

However, Settle Into Stockholm is not Caroline’s only endeavor. In her spare time, she is also a talented singer-songwriter. Under the stage name Miss Caroline, she has released several tracks on Spotify and has performed live in both Sweden and Australia. Caroline writes and sings her own songs, playing both the piano and guitar. Perhaps we will have the pleasure of experiencing a live performance by Miss Caroline at the Park in the near future.”

The Park is proud to present Caroline Werner, Miss Caroline, and Settle into Stockholm, whose mission exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and community-building that we strive to nurture.