COULD YOU TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT YOU DO AT DREAMANDO?
I come from a small town in Germany and moved abroad to the UK when I was 16. I always aspired to move to an English-speaking country. Unlike most of my friends, I did not want to go as far as Canada or Australia but a place where I could still travel back and see my family on school vacation. The UK seemed to be the best place for me to go. Luckily I had very supportive parents, and my dad was the one who found out about the International Baccalaureate, a program with an international sixth form that allowed you, after successful completion, to basically study anywhere in the world. My dad spoke to the school, and not only was I accepted, but the program was totally free. Before I knew it, I was on a plane to Impington, a small village outside Cambridge, where my journey began. What was supposed to be only a 2-year experience ended up with me spending 7 years in the UK. After that, I worked and lived in Malaysia, Nicaragua, and Germany, and I truly can say that I can feel at home anywhere in the world. I grew as a person tremendously, both on a personal and professional level. When I look back on my 16-year-old self, I was so shy, and now I have grown my skillset and acquired a unique international experience that helps me navigate this ever-so-connected global world.
At Dreamando, I am in charge of the podcast we are launching this month. Together with the team at Dreamando, I want to ensure that people like us are supported in not only dreaming but doing. By speaking to people who have embarked on similar journeys, I want to bring these stories to your doorstep to encourage you that anything is possible and that we are here to support you.
HOW DID YOU JOIN DREAMANDO?
Ciro’s post introducing himself and his mission for Dreamando showed up on my LinkedIn feed. He had posted a collage in which one picture stood out for me as I realized he went to Impington Village College in the UK like me. As IVC alumni, I love to connect with my former buddies, so I decided to message him. As I was planning to do a podcast series on the IB program, I asked Ciro whether we could chat about this project of mine, and the rest is history.
Why did you join Dreamando?
DreamanDo’s mission to empower individuals to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact resonated deeply with me. I have always believed in the power of dreams and the potential we all have to turn them into reality. Joining DreamanDo felt like a natural fit because it aligns with my personal values and aspirations.
How do you think your life experience matches DreamanDo and the values it creates?
Speaking of life experiences, I have had my fair share of ups and downs, just like everyone else. I faced obstacles, doubted myself, and even questioned whether my dreams were worth pursuing. But through it all, I came to realize the importance of resilience, determination, and self-belief. And these values are at the very core of what DreamanDo stands for. By sharing my experiences and the lessons I learned along the way, I hope to inspire others to embrace their dreams, overcome challenges, and create a life they truly love.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS THAT YOU LOVE ABOUT DREAMANDO?
I truly stand behind Dreamando’s mission. As someone who left home at 16, I wish I had a community of like-minded people that would have supported me in my decision to go ahead with my dream of going to school in the UK. Thankfully I had a supportive family that enabled me to follow through with my plans. Knowing what it means to leave home, especially for the first time, I want to give back and support those who want to do the same, and that is what we are all striving for. All of the Dreamandoers have international experiences that shaped and formed us. The passion we bring to the table is truly inspiring because we know how our lives changed once we took action for our own destiny, and we want to accompany you along your journey if you need support. We are here for you.
WHAT ARE THE GOALS THAT YOU WANT TO REACH WITHIN THIS COMPANY?
I feel extremely humbled about the opportunity to host Dreamando’s Podcast. Together with Ciro and the entire Dreamando team, we want to interact with our community in an engaging way, and the podcast is one way of doing so. Together with some special guests, we will explore first-hand experiences and stories of people who have been chasing their dreams. We want to show you how to dream and do it by highlighting these personal accounts of people who once stood in the same shoes as yourself.
So if you worked, studied, or lived abroad and want to share your experiences with our community, hit me up 🙂
What got you into podcast hosting and producing?
It all started from a place of personal growth. As someone who used to be extremely shy, I wanted to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. Hosting a podcast seemed like the perfect opportunity to improve my public speaking skills and gain confidence. It was a chance to connect with amazing individuals and learn from their unique journeys. And let me tell you, it has been an incredible journey so far. I have discovered a passion for storytelling, a love for deep conversations, and a desire to share inspiring stories with the world.
What are some exciting plans for the DreamanDo Podcast?
We have some incredible episodes lined up with remarkable individuals from various fields who have turned their dreams into reality. From entrepreneurs, students, professors – people that have excelled in life because of their international background. We will delve into their personal stories, uncover their strategies for success, and explore the lessons they learned along the way. The aim is to provide you with practical insights, motivation, and actionable steps to pursue your dreams of exploring the endless opportunities that the world has to offer.
Where can we find the podcast?
Well, we are hosting the podcast on Spotify and Youtube. Just search for “The Dreamando Podcast” and hit that subscribe button to stay updated with the latest episodes!
Give your future listeners a good reason to get on with listening to the podcast right away.
Imagine immersing yourself in captivating stories of individuals who have defied the odds, conquered their fears, and transformed their dreams into reality by working, studying, or living abroad. Each episode is like a journey of inspiration and growth, packed with practical tips and valuable insights. By tuning in, you will gain a fresh perspective, discover your own potential, and be motivated to take action toward your dreams. So do not wait any longer! Join us on the DreamanDo Podcast and embark on an exciting adventure of personal and professional transformation!
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR PEOPLE WANTING TO STUDY/WORK ABROAD?
Going abroad can seem scary, and though we all deal with our fears and insecurities, once you take the first step to embark on this journey, I will guarantee you that it will change your life.
So even if you are hesitant, the steps you take now will guide you on everything that is to come. Just do it, and remember you are not alone!
Remember, your dreams are waiting to be realized, and together, we can make it happen. Let’s dream big, do the work, and create a life that truly fulfills us. I cannot wait to have you onboard!