Moving abroad and starting over in a new country is one of the most exciting yet terrifying adventures ever. I have moved around enough times to know that it can be challenging but also exhilarating to be able to discover different regions and cultures and to be able to adapt to new ways of life and to discover new experiences. Having moved three countries already, I wasn’t completely new to the experience when moving to my fourth one – the UK.
Having settled down and established a life and career in Abu Dhabi, and all the luxuries that come with a life in the UAE, I did find moving to a whole new continent with two young children, having to handle all the challenges that came with setting up an organisation and establishing a network both in my personal and professional life, quite overwhelming.
But the two biggest life lessons I have learnt so far are that we as human beings are very resilient and have an extraordinary superpower to adapt. I knew that this was my chance to learn and grow and to gain exposure personally and professionally, and so after taking time to adjust to the idea, I wholeheartedly embraced it.
It has been a roller-coaster ride ever since, lots of ups and downs, but well worth the ride. And I have fallen in love with London slowly but with all my heart. The charm and rich history of the city, the politeness of the people (I’ve never apologised so much in my life), the hustle and bustle of the tube, and of course the diversity.
As an individual I have grown to appreciate nature more, to find joy in being independent and self- sufficient, and to understand the importance of having my say on political and social issues. It has given me the opportunity to ask questions and to discover parts of myself that I never knew existed.
I joined the Start It Right team in May 2021, and not having had much experience volunteering in my adult life, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I have been pleasantly surprised by the amazing team and their dedication to providing opportunities for development and offering spaces to foster creativity for young people within the community. Working with the team has given me the opportunity to work with a collaborative, diverse and fun group of people who go the extra mile to make a difference. I am excited to see how the rest of this adventure unfolds.
Moving or any form of change is always hard, but we are all better for it. The memories and events we are lucky enough to share will stay forever – we are so fortunate to have had them and they have helped shape me into the person I am today. If you were to ask me today where home is, it would usually involve a lengthy explanation. Sometimes, it’s where you spent your childhood or where you lived during an important life event. Sometimes, it really is where the heart is. For me, home is where I can be myself but also become who I’m truly meant to be.
Home is a place of belonging and becoming.