Speaking to her Global Connection consultant as well as a coach has helped expat partner Joana Rizza Bagano organise some of her scattered plans after relocating to Germany.
Inspiring stories
“When I moved to Norderstedt, I had various ideas and dream projects. But I was a bit all over the place to be honest! Speaking to my Global Connection consultant was a great help. She was very positive and shared inspiring stories about expat partners who have made the most of their expat experience,” says Joana, a freelance writer and communications expert from the Philippines.
An exchange of ideas
“When you arrive in a new country, you are alone, and it’s easy to be in your own head. It felt really good to have someone with whom I could exchange ideas and discuss my plans,” says Joana, who also worked with coach Annika Harloff. “She gave me great insights into the culture. We also talked about my priorities. Before I relocated, I had a full-time job in Manila and I freelanced on top of that. She made me more aware that if I had a full-time employer in Germany, I might not be allowed to freelance as well.”
Flexibility is key
“I began to realise that full-time work might not actually suit me. Besides freelance writing, I’m reading for an MBA in sustainable development. I also need time to organise household matters as my husband works long hours. So having flexibility is important,” says Joana, an intermediate-level German speaker. “I studied German in the Philippines a few years ago, so I had a foundation to build on. In Norderstedt, English is not so widely spoken, which means I have plenty of opportunities to practise my German!”
Volunteering role
“For general networking and finding information, I’ve been using Nebenan – a popular social media app in Germany. It helped me find a volunteering role with an NGO that supports refugees. There are weekly coffee meets that have been a nice way to both meet people and contribute to the community. I will also help the organisation with their website, which needs some work,” says Joana. “I’m very thankful for all the support from my husband’s employer and Global Connection. It has encouraged me and energised me. I feel like everything is falling into place, little by little, piece by piece.”
Photo: Joana and her husband in Germany
