The Scrutiny of Things

After two years of living in Northern Ireland and sharing my experiences across 11 episodes, I take a moment to reflect on this journey. I recount the lessons learned and challenges faced along the way. I also tackle one lingering question, should I stay or return home?

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Working abroad changes how you see the world—and sometimes how you see home. In this episode, I unpack how living and working in a different country can alter your perspective, from the assumption that successful methods abroad can be easily replicated back home to the challenges of navigating cultural and systemic differences. I’ll also explore the concept of diaspora privilege.

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One of the most common questions I get is, "Where is Zambia?" In this episode, I share the struggles I encounter as well as the fun and innovative ways I’ve learned to describe my where the country is located, from comparing it to familiar landmarks to using creative maps and quirky references. I also delve into the things that need to change to make it better to describe where we are.

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In this episode, I open up about experiencing grief while living away from home, sharing a story of loss and the unique challenges it brought. Grief is universal, but this episode delves into how distance reshapes the experience and highlights how people cope while far from home.

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In this episode, I explore the significant role religion has played in shaping Northern Ireland’s history, delving into the deep-rooted religious and political divides that have defined the region for decades. I’ll also share my personal journey of finding a local church, the challenges of connecting with a new congregation, and some intriguing observations of church life in Belfast. 

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In this episode, I share some of the racist incidents I’ve faced while living in Belfast and reflect on how I handled each situation. From subtle prejudices to overt encounters, I’ll walk you through these experiences, along with my initial reactions and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

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In this episode, I open up about a dilemma many in the diaspora face: trusting family and friends back home to manage our hard-earned investments. I’ll discuss the fears and challenges encountered. I’ll also explore alternative investment options worth considering.

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In this episode, I dive into how expats in the UK make a living and manage their finances. What are the possibilities of working multiple jobs or side hustles to navigating different industries, I’ll explore the various ways individuals support themselves as well as the sacrifices made to send money back home and for investment.

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In this episode, I break down the realities of living in Belfast, from rent to groceries, and everything in between. I’ll walk you through my monthly expenses, giving you insights into how much it costs to maintain a comfortable life in this vibrant city and some of the considerations to make if you wish to make the move.

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From discovering a newfound appreciation for endless cups of tea to the challenges of finding accommodation that feels like home, I'll share the moments that defined my early days. And of course, no story about moving to a Northern Ireland is complete without battling the unpredictable weather—rain, wind, and all! 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.