The Inspiring Tales of Expat Women

As Women's Month draws to a close, can I share a reflection that's been on my mind this entire month?

You know, after publishing that piece about expat women around the globe, I felt like something was missing—a little sprinkle of heart, perhaps. 

I’ve been living abroad for a decade now, and had the chance to meet and connect with all sorts of incredible foreign women along the way. Whether we set sail for distant lands for work, love, or just a dash of adventure, one thing binds us all together: our resourcefulness. 

Why do I say this?

Because living in a new country is like getting a makeover for your soul.

And this is no ovestatement. 

So I want to honor some of the remarkable women whose lives never fail to inspire me. Sorry, no names here—their stories are not just about them as individuals, they're about the incredible capacity we humans have to evolve and redefine ourselves. 

First, let's toast to that Brazilian nutritionist who transformed her love for food into something truly remarkable. When her family relocated to the US for her husband's job, she found herself in a foreign land where her qualifications weren't legally recognized. But did that stop her? No. Instead, she turned to her passion for baking and began crafting the most delicious sourdough bread imaginable. What started as a hobby soon blossomed into a thriving business, with her nutritious loaves captivating taste buds across the neighborhood and beyond. 

Let’s also give a standing ovation to the Lithuanian conductress who embarked on a whole new symphony when she moved to Italy for love. Despite leaving behind the prospect of a prestigious career in her home country, she embraced a new language, a new culture, and a new role as a music teacher. But her journey didn't stop there. She also founded an international choir, bringing closer voices from all corners of the globe to create beautiful harmonies together. 

Shall we also tell the story of that determined manager in Germany? Despite having already established a successful career within her company, she was presented with an enticing opportunity across the ocean. After giving it some thought, she persuaded her husband to embark on this new adventure as well. Both secured new jobs and embarked on a fresh chapter, embracing the thrill of starting anew on a different continent. 

💕 Here's to the women who followed their hearts, even if it meant learning to love in a different language or navigating the maze of motherhood in a foreign culture. 

🌺 Here's to all the women who sought refuge and safety in foreign lands, facing hostility and adversity with unwavering grace.  

🗺️ Here's to those who packed their dreams in a suitcase, left with a one-way ticket, and created a sense of belonging in an unfamiliar place. 

These stories? They remind us of our own courage and resilience.  

So, as we wrap up March, on behalf of the Expat Project initiative, I invite everyone not only to recognize but also to honor these women, their achievements, and their struggles. May we be inspired by their determination to face our own challenges and to expand our horizons far beyond what we imagined. Cheers to that! 

– Article writen by Drielle Cerri, Professional Coach & Trainer, Co-Founder of The Expat Project - Milan.