Success Stories

“Care with Heart” – How Pinoy Attracts and Supports International Professionals

From Intensive Care to a Wide Range of Care Services

Pinoy Pflege was founded about five years ago as an intensive care service. The company now has about 80 employees, including many trainees and FSJ volunteers. Three areas define the business today: outpatient care, non-hospital intensive care, and housekeeping. While outpatient care and household services rely more heavily on employees with driver’s licenses due to the mobility required, intensive care is characterized by great cultural diversity. “If you count our FSJ volunteers and trainees, nearly half of our staff is from the Philippines,” explains Hauck.

Network, Values, and Clear Structures

Pinoy Pflege’s focus on the Philippines began through connections within the team – but it has long since grown into a forward-looking network. Many Filipino caregivers bring experience from the hospital setting, are well-trained, and are known for their warm, respectful demeanor, which is highly valued within the company.

At the same time, Pinoy Pflege is well aware of the unique challenges: complex bureaucratic procedures, long training periods in the country of origin, and, in some cases, strict emigration regulations. Jana Sander, who supports many of the young people at the company, describes the first few months as crucial:

For some, the transition is a big one – a new language, a new environment, all at once. Some settle in quickly, while others need a little time. But once they’ve settled in, you can immediately see how they’re thriving.

Language Development as the Key

A key factor in success is language preparation. Pinoy Pflege first invites those interested in nursing to Germany for a six-month language course, funds local courses, and provides additional support with everyday situations, such as finding housing or interacting at local facilities like senior care homes. It is precisely these regular interactions that help with the language and build self-confidence. According to Hauck, close collaboration with the Welcome Service Region Stuttgart is also important, as it supports Pinoy Pflege with many practical matters – from questions about visas and residency to dealing with government agencies and getting oriented in the region:

Without partners like these, none of this would be feasible. The Welcome Service guides us and our staff through many bureaucratic steps.

Step by Step into a Career in Nursing

After completing the language course, many first undertake a Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) in Germany – an important transitional step to consolidate their language skills and practical experience. This is followed by either the three-year general nursing training program or training to become a geriatric care assistant. Pinoy Pflege also supports on-the-job training, which is funded by the Qualification Opportunities Act. The requirements are high across the board, as is the demand for well-prepared trainees.

That’s why Pinoy invests heavily in hands-on training: “We provide our people with intensive support,” explains Hauck. “Only when they’ve mastered the language and understand the structures can they successfully complete their training.” For Jana Sander, the combination of supportive guidance, clear processes, and ongoing training is a recipe for success: “These young people continue to grow and develop over time. And they often bring a warmth that can’t be taught.”

Community as a Factor for Success

What makes Pinoy Pflege special is the concept of a close-knit community. Family-like structures shape not only how staff interact with one another but also their relationships with patients. “A warm bond develops very quickly between many of our seniors and the young caregivers,” says Sander.

For Hauck, one thing is certain: The effort is worthwhile not only on a personal level, but also professionally.

We attract highly motivated people who want to stay – and who identify with their profession.

A model that opens up new possibilities

At a time when the shortage of skilled workers is placing a heavy burden on the nursing care industry, Pinoy Pflege demonstrates how sustainable recruitment can work: in a culturally sensitive manner, with strong support, and in collaboration with strong regional partners. The Welcome Service Region Stuttgart plays an important role in this – as a point of reference for international professionals and as a trailblazer for companies like Pinoy Pflege.

“We want to create opportunities – for the people who come to us and for the care sector as a whole,” says Hauck. “And we see every day that this approach works.”

sMOTIVE und Softwareentwicklerin Noha Sherif

German language skills are the key to success, as this is the only way foreign employees can contribute their professional potential. The fact that we use agile methods and often work in teams of two helps to familiarize people with our work culture.

The company also supports its international employees outside of work. For example, the company owner’s mother accompanied Sherif personally to apartment viewings in order to speed up the signing of the rental contract.

sMOTIVE shows how companies can successfully integrate foreign professionals through targeted support, language training and close cooperation.

Noha Sherif’s full story and further insights into the work of the Welcome Service can be found in the video Meet & Eat. The Hi Tech Talk!