From Rio to Lisbon and Back to Mollie: Alicia Zavalis’ Journey of Courage and Career Growth

"Have the courage to do what people don’t expect you to do."

For Alicia Zavalis, Application Engineer II, that mantra has shaped her career in tech – taking her from Rio de Janeiro to Stockholm, and now to Lisbon. After joining Mollie in 2023, Alicia left to explore a new opportunity, only to realise just a few months later that the culture, trust, and collaboration she valued most were right here at Mollie. This is her story of bold moves, valuable lessons, and finding the perfect place to grow.

Name: Alicia Zavalis
Role: Application Engineer II, Lisbon, PT
Joined Mollie: March 2023 (1.5 years), rejoined September 2024
Career path at Mollie: Backend Engineer II → Application Engineer II

Tell us your Mollie story. How did your journey begin?

I’m originally from Rio, Brazil, but before moving to Lisbon, I lived for two years in Stockholm. I loved the experience, but the northern European climate made me miss my family a lot. My twin sister had moved to Lisbon, and the idea of being closer to her, in the sunshine and surrounded by a similar culture, was really appealing.

A friend of mine who was working at Mollie referred me, and it just felt like a sign. I interviewed, met great people, and really connected with the culture. I joined as a Backend Engineer in 2023, although previously I had been a fullstack engineer. Mollie made it clear that moves across teams were possible and this openness really appealed to me.

You left Mollie for a while and then came back. What happened?

After a year and a half, I moved to another company to take on a more senior role and work with a different tech stack. But almost immediately, I realised the culture wasn't a good fit, something I had really felt at Mollie.

The best part was that when I left Mollie, my leaders kept the door open. My former manager was happy to discuss the idea of me coming back, and after some conversations, I joined a new team, working with technology I really enjoy. It was the perfect match, and coming back felt like coming home.

How did Mollie support you along your journey?

I’ve had good managers at Mollie, and leaders who care about my growth, and what’s best for the company. They’ve helped me identify what I’m good at and where I can develop further. Even senior leaders like our VP of Payments have taken the time to recognise where I could contribute the most.

When I moved to Lisbon, Mollie was incredibly supportive during the process. My colleagues helped me with so many of the practical details making settling into a new country much easier.

What do you like most about the Mollie culture?

Trust, collaboration and respect are everywhere here – from how we work together in teams, to interactions in the office. I also love the ownership we’re given. Our voices are heard, whether you’re speaking to your teammates, managers, or even Koen, our CEO. If you have an idea, you’re encouraged to share it and explore it with your team for development and potential implementation.

What has been the biggest challenge in navigating your career path, and how did you overcome it?

Before leaving Mollie the first time, I felt stuck. I liked the company, but the promotion I wanted wasn’t coming as quickly as I hoped, and I wasn’t sure if the technical path I was on was right for me. Leaving was a hard decision, but it gave me clarity. Coming back to Mollie in a role that’s a better fit, has been the best outcome for my career.

If you could go back in time, is there anything you’d approach differently?

I think everything has happened the way it was meant to, but I could have been more open and trusting with my conversations with my manager before deciding to leave. A lesson learnt and an openness you don't find everywhere.

What did you miss most about Mollie when you were away?

I really missed the culture, there’s something special about the culture we have here. Also the incredible people at Mollie, and the autonomy we are given in our work. Our voices are heard, and that’s powerful.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your career so far?

Coming back to Mollie. The fact that people wanted me back was so validating. Also, every time I've contributed to a new launch or feature in the Mollie Checkout or Mollie App  – I feel proud to see the impact of my work.

What’s one unexpected thing about your career journey that most people wouldn’t guess?

I tried the Engineering Manager path twice, and both times realised I preferred being a hands-on contributor. I’m not saying it won’t happen, but for now I really enjoy being hands on with the tech.

Also, I’ve worked in three different countries – Brazil, Sweden, and Portugal – every country has taught me adaptability and how to navigate many different situations.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to follow a similar path in tech?

Have the courage to do what people don’t expect you to do. The tech world is huge – there are so many areas to explore. It’s not all about mathematics like some people think. Don’t be afraid to try new things and fail along the way. You’ll learn so much from different people and different perspectives around you.

And finally, what’s next for you?

Right now, I’m focused on growing technically in both front and back end, and aiming for a promotion into a senior role (wish me luck!). I’m also about to become a new mum, so I’ll be learning how to balance this exciting new chapter in life with my career.

Thanks, Alicia, for sharing your story! 🇧🇷