My Intercultural Training Journey

So how did I enter the world of intercultural training? The truth is, it started with my own experience working and living across cultures.

More than 17 years ago, I moved from Australia to the United Arab Emirates and found myself navigating classrooms, meetings, and a workplace where cultures and languages mixed in ways that were new to me. I thought I was well-prepared- I had teaching experience, and had some background knowledge of the new cultural landscape. But still, there were so many moments of confusion - where I really misunderstood what was actually being said.

Over time, I came to understand and appreciate the numerous cultural nuances about living in the Gulf region – not offering things with the left hand, politely avoiding a handshake and remembering to soften direct conversations, amongst many others examples. 

Developing cultural intelligence is more than this though- it is the fundamental understanding that human beings have unique, culturally embedded ways of being in the world.

The use of ‘inshallah’ in response to a request, is an expression reflecting a completely different perspective on life than the one we have in the West.

Coming to terms with these differences means that cultural Intelligence becomes a real tool that helps people succeed, build trust, and interact cohesively. It’s when cultural differences stop being hidden obstacles and instead become bridges to greater understanding.

That’s why I became an intercultural trainer- it is not just a business - it’s a way to help people connect better, work better, and feel confident anywhere in the world.