In August 2020, during the height of the Covid pandemic, my husband and I embarked on a new adventure – moving to Amsterdam. As someone who had spent all my life in Johannesburg, South Africa, navigating expat life presented a unique set of challenges. Thankfully, a neighbour introduced me to the IWC in May 2021. After just one meeting, I knew this was a special community, and I became a member right away!
The IWC provided a much-needed lifeline. It connected me with like-minded individuals, broadened my horizons, and offered a strong support network of people who understood the complexities of relocating to a new country.
Briefly, I have a wonderful family – a 33-year-old son, a 30-year-old daughter living in Switzerland with her husband, and triplets (a son and two daughters) who are now 26. Between November 2021 and November 2022, the four children still living in South Africa joined us in Amsterdam. In September 2023, I had the joy of becoming a grandmother to my eldest son’s daughter!
As a trained research psychologist and counsellor specialising in children, I’ve always been passionate about supporting others. In South Africa, I started and ran a support group for families with children diagnosed with cancer (focusing on their siblings) under the auspices of the Childhood Cancer Foundation SA (CHOC) for nine years. During the pandemic, I transitioned to remote work, researching the impact of Covid-19 and exploring strategies for managing its consequences on adults and children. However, at this stage, I am no longer actively employed.
While raising five children, managing a home, and juggling work, I honed strong organisational, methodical, and proactive skills. These experiences, coupled with my dedication to community service, make me confident I can contribute meaningfully to the IWC.
The IWC plays a vital role in the lives of expats, and I would be honoured to fill the Vice-Chair position. I believe my skills, experience, and genuine enthusiasm for the IWC’s mission make me a strong candidate.