Where did it all start? How was your life “pre the move” and where did your decision stem from?
I had been considering moving abroad for a few years before I finally made the leap. Life in South Africa was wonderful, but the desire to experience something new and broaden my horizons had always been in the back of my mind. When the opportunity came, the timing felt right—both personally and professionally.
Honestly, how was it all? The recruitment process and the actual relocation process?
The recruitment process was smooth and efficient. Suzy was incredibly supportive throughout, making the experience feel seamless. I appreciated how quickly things progressed, as it allowed me to understand my next steps without delay. The firm also maintained great communication, providing regular updates on internal developments.
Naturally, moving abroad comes with its share of complexities. There were a few administrative delays during my process, but overall, things progressed reasonably well.
What is life like now?
Life in Sydney has been fantastic! It’s such an incredible city, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know it over the past year. Now that I’ve been here for a while, I’ve found a good rhythm and a sense of stability in my day-to-day life. Professionally, it’s also been a great year—I was promoted within my first year, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the work I’m doing in the sustainability space.
How does your average working week in Sydney differ to your previous SA working week?
The work I am involved in in my current role is a bit different to my previous role, I am mainly focused on sustainability. I find that I have a bit more flexibility and more of a work life balance in my new role.
What has been the highlight of the move?
The highlight of the move has definitely been discovering and living in Sydney. It’s an incredibly beautiful city with so much to offer, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed immersing myself in everything it has. As someone who loves the beach, Sydney has been a dream—there’s always a stunning coastal spot just around the corner. And even now, catching sight of the Opera House feels surreal.
What has been the greatest challenge?
Saying goodbye to family and friends was definitely the hardest part of the move. Adjusting to the time difference made it tricky to stay in touch at first, especially when trying to coordinate schedules. But over time, it’s become easier, and we’ve found a rhythm that works.
What would you do differently if you did it all again?
If I were to do it all again, I’d definitely take more time off work before the move. The relocation process was physically and emotionally exhausting, and I didn’t fully realize the toll it had taken until after I arrived. Giving myself a bit more breathing room would have allowed me to rest, spend more quality time with family and friends, and mentally prepare for the transition
How does your future look?
I think the future looks incredibly exciting. The firm is experiencing significant growth, which I believe will open up many new opportunities for me to further develop my career. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey in Sydney, exploring more of Australia, and eventually working toward becoming a citizen.