A Life Shaped by Twelve Places

My life has been a journey across twelve places, each shaping me in unique ways. Growing up in Germany gave me a strong foundation of cultural values, but it also sparked a deep curiosity about the world. This curiosity has taken me to places as diverse as Montreal, Montpellier, Madrid, London, and Amsterdam—each a chapter filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.

In Montreal, I learned how to endure brutal winters while embracing the warmth of a tight-knit community. Those experiences taught me resilience and showed me how connection can make even the coldest moments bearable.

In Montpellier, I fell in love with the Mediterranean lifestyle but faced challenges adapting to the local academic culture. In French universities, lectures are taken literally—every word spoken by the professor must be transcribed. It was a far cry from the interactive learning I was used to, and it forced me to adjust quickly.

Madrid brought a vibrant energy I couldn’t resist, but its nightlife didn’t quite suit me. Dinner at 10 p.m., bars at midnight, and dancing at 3 a.m. was the norm—completely at odds with my need for restful nights. Still, I admired the passion and zest for life that Madrileños brought to everything they did.

London was another shift entirely. While I loved the city’s creative energy and diversity, I found people polite but guarded, making it harder to form deep connections. It taught me patience and the importance of finding common ground and building genuine relationships in new environments.

Amsterdam welcomed me with its open-minded culture, but I struggled with the Dutch love for fried food. From bitterballen to kibbeling, I had to find my own balance between enjoying local flavors and sticking to my preferred healthier lifestyle.

Living abroad has been a beautiful adventure, but it hasn’t always been easy. Navigating cultural differences, adapting to new systems, and finding a sense of home in unfamiliar places has required resilience, flexibility, and a willingness to embrace discomfort.

Adapting to Work Across Borders

Working as a lawyer and academic in different countries has given me a unique perspective on cultural adaptation. Each work environment came with its own set of expectations, communication styles, and unspoken rules. In Montpellier, I had to navigate the rigidity of the academic system. In London, I adjusted to a professional culture where politeness often masked distance. These transitions weren’t always easy, but they taught me how to stay true to myself while integrating into unfamiliar systems.

What truly helped me during these moments was finding spaces for reflection and connection. Sitting together in facilitated women’s circles and practicing rituals became a cornerstone of my resilience. These practices allowed me to process the challenges of adapting, celebrate small victories, and reconnect with my core values.

What Makes Me Different

What sets me apart is the combination of my global experiences, professional expertise, and commitment to creating spaces for genuine connection. Having lived and worked across cultures, I understand what it’s like to feel both exhilarated and overwhelmed by the adventure of living abroad. I know the joy of discovering a new way of life—and the frustration of struggling to adapt to its challenges.

But my journey isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving. What makes me different is my ability to blend practical tools with soulful practices. I combine my legal and academic background with mindfulness, somatic practices, and facilitated circles to help women navigate their own transitions with clarity and confidence.

My Core Values

At the heart of everything I do are three core values: connection, authenticity, and growth.

Connection: I believe that no matter where we are in the world, we’re stronger together. Building meaningful relationships is essential for navigating life’s ups and downs, especially when we’re far from home.

Authenticity: I value showing up as my true self and creating spaces where others can do the same. In a world that often asks us to conform, I encourage women to embrace who they are fully.

Growth: Life is a journey of constant learning, and I see every challenge as an opportunity for transformation. I’m passionate about helping women turn obstacles into stepping stones for personal and professional development.

Why I Do This Work

I know how isolating and overwhelming it can feel to live and work in a new culture, trying to navigate unfamiliar systems while staying true to yourself. My goal is to create spaces where women don’t have to do it alone—where they can share, reflect, and find support in a community of like-minded individuals.

Through women’s circles, rituals, and mindful practices, I aim to empower women to embrace the beauty of their journeys, overcome the challenges, and build meaningful connections. Together, we celebrate the joys of living abroad while navigating the complexities with strength, grace, and authenticity.