The International - March 2023

Page 1

MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM the international ISSN 2596-5220 CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY WITH THREE AMAZING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS! SCANDINAVIAN WOMEN ARE HAPPY BRIOCHE FEMINISM IN DENMARK WOMEN IN EDUCATION MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM #EmbraceEquity internationalwomensday.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF FEMALE RELATIONSHIPS

WE ARE COLLECTIVELY TRYING TO LEAVE THE "WOMEN BRINGING DOWN OTHER WOMEN" NARRATIVE IN THE PAST. IT'S OUTDATED AND HONESTLY NON-PRODUCTIVE. INSTEAD, WE SHOULD BE ALL ABOUT BUILDING EACH OTHER UP. THIS BEGINS WITH WOMEN BUILDING SOLID BONDS. SO THEN, WHY DO SO MANY WOMEN STILL STRUGGLE TO CREATE FEMALE FRIENDSHIPS? THIS MONTH LET'S CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY AND FEMALE RELATIONSHIPS!

FFEMALE FRIENDSHIPS CAN be some of the most rewarding, fulfilling, supportive, and, let's face it, the best relationships we can have. In addition, some studies show that same-sex friendships are beneficial in times of stress. It's no secret that women often stay friends for a long time, sharing solid bonds and memories.

WOMEN "GET" EACH OTHER

Sure, men are great. But women's emotional connection and empathy when talking to another woman are unparalleled. Women think alike, and this helps them build the strongest of bonds. They aren't afraid of getting emotional with their friends or venting their frustrations to each another.

Your close girlfriends are always there for you. Female friends are your greatest cheerleader, big sisters, and confidence builders. No matter what, you know you can rely on your best female friend to have your back and be loyal to the core.

STRUGGLES AND EMOTIONS

Having female friends is great because you have a group of like-minded individuals who know your struggles. Whether that is dealing with your most recent encounter of mansplaining or running out of tampons, your girls know how it feels. You can relate to them; they can help you feel understood even in your worst moments.

Let's face it, women are more emotionally-inclined than men. They can easily empathize with people, which helps create a better communication dynamic within female friendships. Since women are so open about how they feel and when they're hurt, they have no problem telling it like it is. If your friends are mad at you, they'll tell you why and be honest. This allows female friendships to be super transparent and last longer without grudges taking a toll on the bond for years.

A CONSTANT CHEERLEADER

Women love to hype other women. They love feeling confident and safe, making other women feel that way whenever possible. So if you make a new female friend, chances are they'll be the first to comment on your latest social media post and compliment you. At the same time, you can

also rely on your female friends to be there in your darkest hours. Your girl squad will listen whenever you need to get something off your chest!

RELIABLE AND DURABLE

Making friends can be intimidating. But you'll never regret putting yourself out there and meeting a group of amazing women. Female friendships are long-lasting and incredibly reliable. No matter what is happening in your life, you can count on your girlfriends to be there. That stability and support are priceless. When you're older and still living it up in the group chat, you'll be so happy to have made an effort to meet those women. And if you're struggling to make friends while studying, relocating to a new country, or just during a different stage of your life, put yourself out there and find your go-to group.

FEMININE ENERGY

In a world where masculinity is still very dominant, it's incredible to have a group of like-minded women by your side. These women will let you express and grow your femininity anytime you want. The feminine energy is strong, resilient, kind, motherly, honest, and uplifting. Tapping into this side of yourself amongst other women will help you understand who you are on a whole other level.

FEMALE FRIENDSHIPS AND STRESS

Female friendships can help you re-

duce your stress levels. You probably felt that your girlfriends made your life easier and less stressful, and now you know why. According to research, engaging with female friends reduces cortisol levels for women during a lifetime. So take this as your sign to get out there and start looking for like-minded women with whom you can become close friends.

Your girl tribe is for life! Friendships are one of the most critical aspects of your life, so you have to value them. Whether you have more male or female friends, nurture those bonds and stick to them for the long haul. And if you tend only to seek male peers, look for female friendships too. Put yourself out there and make friendships that will last you a lifetime.

In a statement by UN SecretaryGenreal António Guterres in 2022, he expressed his support for International Women's Day as we celebrated women and girls everywhere. He highlighted their contributions to ending the COVID-19 pandemic, ideas, innovations and activism changing our world for the better - and their leadership across all walks of life.

We wish you all a Happy International Women's Day!

Love,

LYNDSAY JENSENEDITOR & FOUNDER

THE-INTL.COM

MEET THE TEAM

EDITOR & FOUNDER

Lyndsay Jensen - lyndsay@the-intl.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR & PARTNER

Kenneth Macalpine - kenneth@the-intl.com

CONSULTING EDITOR

Conrad Egbert

GRAPHIC DESIGN

The International

WRITERS TEAM

Ophelia Wu; Vanessa C Petersen; Alexandra Beck; Mariano Davies; Monika Pedersen; Sara R. Newell; Michaela Medvedova; Shani Bishop; Natasha Liviero; Heather Storgaard; Lasse Frimand Jensen; Jane Elgård Petersen; Natália Šepitková; Luke Hannon

Events

Lyndsay Jensen - lyndsay@the-intl.com

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM

Head of SoMe

Shivangi Singh - shivangi@the-intl.com

SoMe Ambassadors

Neelam Gahlaut; Michaela Medvedova; Aina Masood; Ane-Sophie Custura; Terumi Mascarenhas; Leslie Noygues; Shelly Pandey; Shivangi Singh; Ritika Jain; Pavlos Tsiakoumis; Sakib Akhter; Rashmi Jadhav; Gemma La Rocca; Isabel Pereira Lima

SALES

sales@the-intl.com

The International is published online 12 times a year. This issue was published on 2 March, 2023.

Notice: The publishers regret that they cannot accept any liability for error or omissions contained in this publication. The opinions and views presented need not necessarily reflect those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek special counsel before acting on any information contained herein. All rights reserved. No part of this publication or contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without written permission from the publishers. Published by and © 2021 The International ApS. Registered in Denmark / CVR Number: 39118181

2 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
"THE FEMININE ENERGY IS STRONG, RESILIENT, KIND, MOTHERLY, HONEST, AND UPLIFTING. TAPPING INTO THIS SIDE OF YOURSELF AMONGST OTHER WOMEN WILL HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHO YOU ARE ON A WHOLE OTHER LEVEL."

MARCH EVENTS AROUND DENMARK

MALMO, SWEDEN

4 MARCH

RHYTHM ROLLER SKATINGSATURDAY SESSIONS

You love music and rhythmic movement. In addition, you love roller skating and want to combine all three elements.

Copenhagen Jam & Dance Skate arrange indoor training in a dance studio with @KU.BE Kultur og Bevegelseshus.

Lessons and free jam on roller skates!

We train basic elements such as basic dance steps, technique, balance, flow, riffs, transitions and bounce - in harmony with the rhythms of the music - which we combine in joint routines with inspiration from street & hip-hop culture.

Participation is free, and admission is free of charge.

Training session:

14:15-15:15: Teaching - @Kent Jacobsen

15:15-18:00: Free training - individual and joint jam

Age: minimum 15 years (exceptions may be granted, depending on basic skating skills).

You will find us in Puls on the 1st floor. Experience with dancing on roller skates is not necessary to participate, but you must be comfortable on your skates and able to roll forwards and backwards, turn and stop without problems.

We dance on quads (side-by-side). Toe stops and brakes make dancing on skates difficult, so we roll without them. So-called jam plugs mounted at the front are, on the other hand, a good idea. We look forward to jamming with you, both new and experienced rhythm skaters.

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/2J9V8X23B

5 MARCH

SENSUAL SUNDAYSPURE MUSIC PURE DANCE

Making Malmö dance since 2014! Just a short train ride or drive across the bridge from Copenhagen, and join us for a night of movement and socialising!

Music: Salsa & Bachata

Where: Ungdomens Hus, Torpgatan 21, Sal 11

Time: 18:00-19:00

Price: 40 SEK

*If you're coming from Denmark, entrance is free.

19:00- 22:00: Sensual Sundays Social

Price Social: 40 SEK

For more info, check out "Sensual Sundays - Event Group" or under discussion in the event. If you have any questions about the event you can send Jens a WhatsApp message: +46 709 94541

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/3RBGHFXLD

3 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
ZEALAND GO VISIT DENMARKCHRISTIAN FABER VISIT FYN FB PAGE VISIT COPENHAGENROLANDS VARSBERGS & DANNY SAMAROV
JUTLAND FUNEN
JAM & DANCE SKATE FB PAGE
COPENHAGEN
JS CARIBESWEDENAFROLATIN EVENTS FB PAGE COPENHAGEN JAM & DANCE SKATE FB PAGE COPENHAGEN
UNSPLASH
JS CARIBESWEDENAFROLATIN EVENTS FB PAGE

8 MARCH AARHUS EQUALITY MARCH

MARCH FOR FREEDOM AND EQUALITY ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!

The theme for this year's Equality march is freedom: Freedom to be who you are, freedom from prejudice and oppression, freedom to decide over your own body and life - and a homage to the Iranian women's slogan 'Women, Life, Freedom'.

The demonstration starts with speeches in Mathilde Fibigers Have by The gender Museum at 17:00. Among the speakers, we gather local and Iranian voices in solidarity with international feminist movements.

The speakers are:

Sara Sajadian

Sara is a Danish-Iranian activist and a prominent voice in the struggle for Iranian women's rights. In collaboration with a group of Danish-Iranian women, she also organises activities at the museum throughout the day (see the complete programme in the link below).

Anne Hegelund

Anne is a local activist and has, throughout the years, worked with everything from gendered violence, queer rights, and climate justice to international solidarity and a diverse and inclusive city.

The march through Aarhus will start around 17:30 and ends at the museum at 18:00. Aarhus Panti will be playing during the march. Find your banners, signs, and demo dress! Local activists are offering an impressive programme at the museum and across all of Aarhus before and after the Equality march. The programme is continuously updated: https://konmuseum.dk/.../kvindernes-internationale.../

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/LZZJPTZC

9 MARCH FREE TANTRA YOGA INTRO WORKSHOP

Are you interested in our Tantra Course but you don't really know what to expect?

Join our Free Tantra Intro Workshop to meet your future teachers, visit Natha Yoga Center, and get answers to your questions about the course.

What is the Tantra Intro Workshop about?

In this intro workshop, you will get a thorough introduction to the course. You can try some of the exercises taught in the course and meet the teachers who run it and get a good idea if this is something for you.

Everyone is welcome, and it requires no prior knowledge. You can come as a couple or alone. Sign-up here.

The first year of the tantra course focuses on: The game of polarity (between masculine and feminine aspects) and attraction mechanisms.

Subtle force centres (chakras) and energetic pathways of the human body (nadis/meridians) which affect human psychology and behaviour.

Various Tantric tools and techniques – such as asanas, pranayama, meditation, and visualisation – which aims to create specific transformations in the inner states and daily life of the human being

Each course lasts 2½ hours, once a week, of which we use 90-105 min. Each week you will receive written course material with details regarding the techniques, tantric philosophy of life, and other supplementary information. You will be taught by experienced tantra teachers who have used this learning system for years as an essential part of their self-development path.

Location: NATHA Yoga Center, Mejlgade 95, 4th floor, 8000 Aarhus C

Language: English

Teachers: Iris Smeets and Ágúst Jin

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/2PJYBEKTY

13 MARCH FROM UKRAINE WITH LAUGHS

A night of hilarious stand-up comedy from Europe's funniest Ukrainians in English. Part of the profits will be donated to help Ukraine.

"From Ukraine with Laughs" is going on a European tour after multiple sold-out shows in Berlin in 2022 and a successful premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which was critically acclaimed.

Get tickets now to ensure a better deal and avoid higher charges at the venue. Ticket link.

What to expect?

An entertaining evening full of jokes on various topics and international references, funny interactions with the audience, a friendly atmosphere, and lots of laughter.

Comedians:

Palya and Dima Watermelon are two Berlin English comedy scene regulars and internationally touring comedians originally from Ukraine.

PALYA is a Ukraine-born, Berlin-based comedy writer, screenwriter, producer, and stand-up comedian (Comedy Central, ZDFneo, Quatsch Comedy Club, SoYouThinkYou'reFunny2018).

During the day, he produces funny content for TV, streaming, and YouTube. Then, when the night comes, Palya replaces his keyboard with a microphone and sweatpants with better sweatpants and brings laughter to live audiences around Germany and Europe in English.

DIMA is a professional, funny person from the outskirts of Chornobyl. His unique comedic style combines absurdism, social commentary, and allegedly inappropriate jokes. Self-proclaimed inventor of mumble comedy. Being naturally funny, it took Dima many years to realise that other people might also enjoy his humour. Since then, Dima has become a regular stand-up comedian in Berlin. Over 5 years of doing comedy, he has performed in more than 10 countries worldwide, including some of the best comedy clubs in London, Johannesburg, and New York.

A third of the profits will be donated to volunteer organisations helping Ukraine.

Come laugh in a great atmosphere with cool drinks, yummy food, and funny jokes.

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/2LOIETCA0

4 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
UNSPLASH KØNGENDER MUSEUM DENMARK FB PAGE AARHUS
NATHA YOGACENTER AARHUS FB PAGE AARHUS
AARHUS NATHA YOGACENTER AARHUS FB PAGE
EVENTBRITE FOR ORGANIZERS FB PAGE

17 MARCH

COPENHAGEN ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

Everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day!

With this slogan, join us at Copenhagen St. Patrick's Day Parade for a festive afternoon! Bring the whole family to enjoy Irish dancing, live folk music, Irish wolfhounds, a green parade and Copenhagen Showband.

There will also be face painting for the children, and everyone dressed in something green can take part in the parade through the inner city.

Programme at the City Hall (Rådhuspladsen):

13:00-18:00: Meet at the Irish pub.

15:00-17:00: Face painting for children.

15:30-17:00: Irish music and dance

17:00-17:40: Parade

Parade route:

Rådhuspladsen – Vester Voldgade – Stormgade – Vindebrogade – Højbro Plads - Gammelstrand – Nybrogade –Rådhusstræde – Gl. Torv – Nytorv – Slutterigade – Lavendelstræde – Vester Voldgade – Rådhuspladsen.

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/GMRI3TXC

ADVERTISEMENT

17 MARCH

DANCE LIKE NO ONE IS WATCHING

Join us on a 2-hour movement journey! While the music is played, you are welcome to explore any impulses of your body: shake, wave, crawl, jam, flow, jump or sit still. Be cheerful and jolly or introverted and tender. Stay in your own space or play and interact with others. We'll start at 20:00, please arrive on time.

We invite you to a space where we can: Connect with freedom of movement and less thought Wake up energy flow and express it Feel safe with each other while dancing

Discover playfulness and innocence

Welcome states of high and low energy, being an introvert and extrovert Include physical contact in the form of hugs, cuddles with gentleness, and care

Where:

The event is at Virkelig in a lovely, spacious room. There will be colourful lights, and one side of the room will be covered with mattresses for resting and cuddling. If you wish to make tea, there is a kitchen available. Tickets are available here: tickets

FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://FB.ME/E/SK7BN3LA

18 MARCH

REGENERATIVE PAINTING WORKSHOP

A new regenerative painting workshop by Art Escape Studios & Cafe

Our Regenerative Painting course is an insightful experience for creating and painting with natural pigments. The depth and earthly tones created with these edible and naturally sourced colours reflect our daily organic environment. The tones are lush and emotive, and their vibrance is harmoniously tuned to nature's intrinsic colour scheme.

The course's purpose reflects our motivation to explore how art can be regenerative, environmentally sound, and part of the green transition. In this course, you will learn how to make your own water-soluble pigments, paint with those colours, utilise the tools needed to create a successful image, and balance colours to enhance the unique quality of each tone.

Practical:

This workshop is 4 hrs.

It includes all materials and instructions. Each participant will leave with a completed painting. This class is taught in English.

FOR MORE INFO: REGENERATIVE PAINTING WORKSHOP

A value-driven community that welcomes students ages 4-16.

Rygaards has a strong reputation of a rich educational experience with a nurturing atmosphere where students learn to think for themselves, find their own voice, and engage with the world with confidence and curiosity. •

MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM 5
academic
Christian ethos
Beautiful
Global community
NEASC accreditation
Cambridge Assessment International Education Learn more at rygaards.com Bernstorffsvej 54, 2900 Hellerup +45 39 62 10 53
High
standards •
campus, located in Hellerup •
UNSPLASH
ART
PAGE
ESCAPE STUDIOS & CAFÉ FB
COPENHAGEN COPENHAGEN COPENHAGEN
UNSPLASH

18/22 MARCH

CPH:DOX 2023

PIANOFORTE

Some of the world's best young pianists compete in Chopin interpretations at The International Chopin Piano Competition in a riveting adrenaline rush of a film. Classical beauty in a modern setting.

18 March at 20:00 in Aveny-T

After the screening, you will be able to meet the director for a conversation about the making of the film. 22 March at 17:00 in Stærekassen

FOR MORE INFO: CPHDOX.DK

COPENHAGEN

19/23/24 MARCH

CPH:DOX 2023

PRAYING FOR ARMAGEDDON

Hard-hitting docu-thriller is about an influential movement of Christian fundamentalists in the US, who, with millions of dollars in backing and threads into the government, are fighting for the end of the world. Power, money and religion in a terrifying insider's report from a closed world.

19 March at 19:00 in Grand Teatret

After the film's world premiere, you can meet the director Tonje Schei in conversation with the film's protagonist, investigative journalist Lee Fang of The Intercept.

23 March at 17:00 in Politikens Hus

After the screening, you can meet the film's main character, the American journalist Lee Fang (The Intercept), who has helped expose the evangelical church's influence on American foreign policy in Israel.

24 March at 16:30 in Dagmar Teatret

FOR MORE INFO: CPHDOX.DK

21/23/25/26 MAR

CPH:DOX 2023

THE OTHER PROFILE

An elementally suspenseful and completely unpredictable detective story from Kinshasa, where a French film director has to find his own double. A film about virtual identities in a post-colonial century.

21 March at 19:00 in Grand Teatret

After the film's world premiere, you can meet the film's director Armel Hostiou for a Q&A.

23 March at 19:00 in Grand Teatret

25 March at 19:30 in Empire Bio

26 March at 21:30 in Dagmar Teatret

FOR MORE INFO: CPHDOX.DK

COPENHAGEN

18/19/25 MARCH

CPH:DOX 2023

CYBORG: A DOCUMENTARY

Artist Neil Harbisson was born colour blind, but an antenna drilled into his skull enables him to hear colours, and today he is the world's first officially recognised cyborg. Meet a man who may be the prototype of the human of the future.

18 March at 19:00 in Dagmar Teatret

After the screening, you can meet the film's director for a Q&A.

19 March at 10:30 in Nationalmuseet

After the screening, there will be a panel discussion about cyborg feminism.

25 March at 14:00 in Kunsthal Charlottenborg

FOR MORE INFO: CPHDOX.DK

21/22/23/25 MAR

CPH:DOX 2023

TOTAL TRUST

The first major film about the Chinese surveillance state is a disturbing tale of technology, self-censorship and abuse of power in the 21st century. Two families fight for justice from within the digital prison.

21 March at 19:30 in Empire Bio

After the film's world premiere, you can meet the film's director Jialing Zhang for a Q&A.

22 March at 17:00 in Politikens Hus

We debate China's constant surveillance after the screening. Join philosopher and PhD in digitisation and democracy Mads Vestergaard for a conversation about cameras and social control in modern China.

23 March at 10:15 in Cinemateket

23 March at 10:15 in Cinemateket

25 March at 16:40 in Grand Teatret

FOR MORE INFO: CPHDOX.DK

6 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
2023
CPH:DOX
COPENHAGEN
CPH:DOX 2023
CPH:DOX 2023 COPENHAGEN
COPENHAGEN
CPH:DOX 2023
CPH:DOX 2023 CPH:DOX 2023
CPH:DOX 2023

23 MARCH PANEL DISCUSSION: WARRIOR WOMEN EVENT

A panel discussion aims to spark conversation between a group of people or industries and thought leaders so that the audience can learn from their discourse and interaction.

Warrior Women Denmark has access to limitless experience and insightful observations from the countless women who have moved to Denmark to embark on a new life journey.

Our international community is powered by women like yourself who have faced struggles and success in building and rebuilding their sense of belonging.

Some in entrepreneurship, some in corporate employment, some as mothers in a new country, and some as artists. They have their story in common - how they have overcome hardships, approached conflicts, and adjusted to cultural differences while creating a beautiful life in Denmark.

Join us in March and get inspired!

Warrior Women Chava Sanderson, Meghna Sckerl, Kristel Hering and Kirsten Larsen Comlossy will share their unique journeys through business, motherhood, employment, and so much more in our first-panel discussion of 2023.

Event Timeline:

18:00-18:20: Meet and greet

18:20-19:30: Storytelling sessions

19:30-20:00: Q&A / networking

REMINDER: This is a FREE and OPEN event. Everyone is welcome. However, we have limited space and ask that you book your space if you want to come.

FOR MORE INFO: WARRIOR WOMEN EVENT

25 MARCH

FAMILY EASTER WORKSHOP

We invite you to join your kids and create with them in this workshop.

We will provide materials and show you some colourful Easter decorations to create in collaboration with your toddler or youngster.

Inspired by Asger Jorn's experimental process, you can create your own paintbrush and work on abstract artwork together.

This workshop is really about having a cosy and fun time with your kid in a creative way!

FOR MORE INFO: FAMILY EASTER WORKSHOP

POSITION AVAILABLE!

HEAD OF NORTH ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (NIS)

WE ARE LOOKING FOR A DEDICATED AND VISIONARY PERSON WITH MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SYSTEM AS THE NEW HEAD OF OUR INTERNATIONAL DEPARTMENT - NIS.

THE JOB

The new Head will be part of a management team covering all our departments. You will be responsible for coordinating and developing the programme for 3–16-year-olds embedding the school philosophy in teaching and learning. Specifically, this will involve managing and administrating the Primary and Secondary programme compliance, assessment, and progression administration. You will also participate actively in a joint management team dedicated to developing the whole school of NGG in line with the overall strategic plan for the school. You will also lead on parent involvement and maintain strong relationships with families, students, and community members to ensure the school is a welcoming and inclusive environment.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants should send their application and current CV to the Principal at NGG - Thomas Thrane, at tth@ngg.dk. You are also welcome to contact Thomas by email or phone at +45 2117 1996 - if you have any questions about the position or the school.

The deadline for applications is 12th March 2023. The interviews with the chosen candidates are expected to take place on 20th March 2023 during the afternoon. In case of the need for a second interview, it will be on the 29th March during the afternoon.

FOR MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE POSITION, FOLLOW THE LINK TO THE JOB DESCRIPTION

7 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
ART ESCAPE STUDIOS & CAFÉ FB PAGE UNSPLASH
ART ESCAPE STUDIOS & CAFE FB PAGE COPENHAGEN COPENHAGEN
UNSPLASH
ADVERTISEMENT
UNSPLASH

ENTREPRENEURS FOR THE GREATER GOOD

RELOCATING AND RESTARTING YOUR CAREER IN A NEW COUNTRY HAS ITS STRUGGLES - SO THESE THREE WOMEN MADE HELPING OTHER EXPATS THEIR PROFESSIONAL MISSION.

EEVERYONE WHO EVER moves to a different country to start a new chapter of their life considers success to be a slightly different thing.

Leslea Petersen, Anna Coen, and Diana Medrea-Mogensen are redefining this. With their respective companies, they not only established themselves - but are also setting other internationals off on the same path.

THE BRITAIN OF BEFORE

Leslea looks back fondly on her time growing up in the United Kingdom. "I wouldn't go back now because of Brexit. But growing up, it felt like Denmark now, very safe. My childhood was very family-oriented. You knew all the neighbours - you called everyone auntie even though they weren't really your aunties," she laughs.

After she spent the first part of her adult life working all over the UK, she decided to spend the next chapter in Denmark after she met her now-husband, a Dane, at a fundraising conference in Cairo. He already had a seven-year-old son, so the pair decided to settle in Denmark.

And she fell in love with Copenhagen very, very easily. "It's a beaut. I love that it's so small I can walk everywhere. Everything's on time, and it's clean. I'm used to the London Underground - it's complex, hundreds of years old, and smells really bad in the summer." She also had a brilliant Danish family who loved and welcomed her and tried to help her integrate.

But even after 16 years in Denmark, she still misses some aspects of her UK life - good fish and chips, family and friends, or the friendliness of the British. "Danes don't want to pry into your life. They wouldn't dream of welcoming a new neighbour by knocking on their door. In the UK, everyone talks to you - at the bus stop, in a shop. I've missed that."

FROM ONE MEGALOPOLIS TO ANOTHER

Anna was born in Kharkiv, Ukraine - a city, unfortunately, put firmly on everyone's map after the war. But Anna knows it more as the city of students and universities. During her studies, she'd participated in many exchange programmes. Already in high school, which specialised in English, she went to California, US. As a summer volunteer, she later went to the United Kingdom - and fell in love with the country.

"When I graduated and moved to Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, there weren't many opportunities. All the large companies that are there now weren't there yet. So, the options were either to go into an academic career or work for a small family business. But I really wanted something more." So Anna set up a goal to move to London, and even though it required rounds of applications, in 2006, she ended up in London and started working in the City of London as a financial analyst.

After getting married in London to her husband, from Ireland, the pair decided to give Asia a shot. They spent six months in Hong Kong and then went to live in Singapore for four years. "Singapore is an international city and an easy transition from working and living in Europe. However, you can get bored after years on one island of 4 million people." Anna's also met a lot of Ukrainians in Singapore. In fact, after the Russian invasion of Crimea in 2014, she became the organiser of the first Ukrainian Club in Singapore. So even though Anna and her husband left Singapore after their contract ended, the centre is still up and running.

Initially, the pair was supposed to return to London, but Anna's husband got a job offer in Copenhagen. None of them had any connection to the country. But London after Brexit wasn't the same place anymore, so they decided to give Copenhagen a shot. "Honestly, I found it a bit small, and not the kind of megalopolis I was used to. I missed

8 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS TERUMI MASCARENHAS - WWW.FJORDFOTO.DK TEXT MICHAELA MEDVEĎOVÁ
9 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
10 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

the big city vibe. But then my son was born shortly after we relocated, which changed my view. It's one of the best places to raise children. It's not just safe. People are relaxed here and they trust each other. I'm sure it didn't happen overnight; it is a big achievement for Danish society. I haven't seen this in any other country."

TRIPLE INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE

Diana's life has been similarly international. While originally from Romania, when she was 16, she moved to Spain to follow her parents, who relocated there for work. After moving to Spain, she attended high school and university there. Before coming there, she knew some of the language, but using Spanish to learn was a bit of a shock. "And because I lived in Palma de Mallorca, part of the classes was Spanish and part Catalan. The language added an obstacle, but everyone was nice and welcomed me. Back then, everyone was used to Romanian kids in school as many Romanian parents brought their children with them."

When she turned 21, she became a flight attendant and worked in a Swedish company. What was just supposed to be a summer job turned into a year and a half. "When I was living in Sweden, I met my now-husband, who was Danish. The company went bankrupt in the previous economic crisis, so we had to decide if we wanted to stay together or go our separate ways. We decided to stay together. Spain was going through a rough time, my husband didn't speak Spanish, so we thought Denmark would be the best next step for us."

So in 2011, the pair found their new home in Jutland. "We were there for five months, he was very busy at his new job, and I was often alone. I was just waiting to start some courses and looking for a job. I've had several incidents with culture shocks - like my bubbly personality being confused with flirting." After those initial months, however, they moved to Køge, and the bigger proximity to Copenhagen made things easier. "At that point, I wasn't so foreign to Denmark anymore. I started Danish classes. But it was all a huge change for us, and coming from Sweden, I didn't think it would be such a big change. I thought I would already know the little things that make you comfortable: products in the supermarket, the language, or some of the cultural elements." But Denmark turned out to be a different country - and a much more closed-off one than it is today. "Internationals weren't as welcome and embraced as they are now. Luckily, that has changed."

UNMET EXPECTATIONS

But while Diana eventually warmed up to Denmark, the job market did not extend her the same courtesy. "It's not that I couldn't get a job; I couldn't get a job I wanted." That led her to focus on something else. Out of interest - and because she was watching many TV baking shows, she started baking at home. "Anywhere I would go, I'd take cakes. People started asking me to make them, but I wasn't sure about the regulations in Denmark." So she started looking into it, taking courses, growing her network, and eventu-

ally met the person who helped her land her first authorised kitchen. "Before I knew it, I had a business going. We grew it organically, and then we sold it." By then, Diana was pregnant with her first child and wanted to take a break - and learn more about business. So she decided to pursue another degree.

Leslea had a similar experience. She immediately fell in love with Copenhagen - but as she already had an established career in the UK, she went into her Danish life with a certain set of expectations. "I thought that because I was in communications, I was a native English speaker, and there were loads of international organisations, I thought it'd be easy to get a job. I'd succeeded in my career, so I assumed it would transfer. But the market here was very different than in the UK. I hated the first years here. I just couldn't get a job or find my place."

For Anna, the starting point was different. She didn't experience difficulty finding a job immediately because when she relocated to Denmark, she had a remote job and went on maternity leave afterwards. Instead, she started actively applying for a job in Denmark after her son started nursery. "I started to have interviews, but it was mostly startups. Even though I worked for some big names in London, I never got to the first interview for a big company in Denmark. I found it strange; I have a good profile but never got to interview for a big company." Then, a year ago, her life - and the lives of millions of others - were disrupted by horrible news. The war in Ukraine began. " I had an interview the same morning - I cancelled it. The shock was too much - it was like a blackout."

FINDING THEIR FOOTING

Before the war, Anna was already a member of a Ukrainian organisation in Denmark. The Association of Ukrainians in Denmark was an umbrella organisation housing all others, and they decided to put them under one roof. "Before, we mostly did cultural things. After, we established a plan and designed which team was responsible for which area. I was responsible for all the demonstrations and PR." Then, she started to think that the best way for her to help would be where her experience lies - startups, recruitment, and connections. From there, DKTech4Ukraine was born. "I was introduced to our Danish co-founder, who had a similar idea. We decided to help displaced Ukrainians arriving in Demark to look for a job. We decided to focus only on startups given our significant connections in that space”.

11 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
"I THOUGHT THAT BECAUSE I WAS IN COMMUNICATIONS, I WAS A NATIVE ENGLISH SPEAKER, AND THERE WERE LOADS OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS, I THOUGHT IT'D BE EASY TO GET A JOB. I'D SUCCEEDED IN MY CAREER, SO I ASSUMED IT WOULD TRANSFER." - LESLEA PETERSEN

They started to approach every startup in Denmark with this proposal: their organisation would have Ukrainian professionals submit their resumes, and every week, each startup HR department would receive them. "We couldn't guarantee they would get hired, but we ensured the HR departments would see the CVs." However, as LinkedIn wasn't as established in Ukraine, many applicants did not have a profile - a crucial thing in the Danish market. As the applications were not optimal Anna started giving free consultations online but was quickly overwhelmed by the demand. Therefore they decided to organise an event to provide career and job search advice. Reactions were positive, so they decided to scale up and arranged the first Danish-Ukrainian Tech Summit in Copenhagen in January. "It was a big success. Now I see people need more of these events, not just a newsletter or similar. We now have requests from other countries as well."

When Leslea found herself out of a job a few years ago, she also looked towards establishing her own business. Then she saw someone on Facebook offering CV and cover letter help, and that's how she met her then-business partner.

English Job Denmark now helps secure international employment. Leslea has a personal connection to each of her clients because she knows how difficult it is when you're qualified, and you know you could easily get a job back in your home country. "And there's nothing better than hearing: Leslea, it's been three years without callbacks, and now I've got interview after interview."

A frustrating job search was also Diana's experience. "I thought I couldn't get a job because my education wasn't from Denmark. Now, I had one. I'd been living here for a few years, my husband was Danish, I spoke Danish, and I had extra courses and certifi-

cations. So I thought job searching won't be difficult this time around." It was. At that point, free internships were the way, and with her family responsibilities, Diana couldn't take that path. "I had ideas, and it took me some soul-searching - and then I decided to start a coaching program. Then, the pandemic hit, and I couldn't go out there and meet people. But sometimes, things don't happen for a reason. I got invited into integrating educational programmes for adults, and that's what We Are Entrepreneurs was born from."

The organisation now develops educational programs for adults and helps them with job market integration. They help people consider the idea of entrepreneurship by organising courses and workshops. "It's not exclusively for entrepreneurs. The skills people gain will also be useful if they get a job." While it's not exclusive - the goal is to accommodate more and more groups - generally, they focus on expats, who they feel need help or support.

"It's especially women - our experience is that they are here because they're following their partners or are taking a break from their career to raise children. So they might be more interested in exploring other opportunities," says Diana. Leslea echoes this. While believing that the glass ceiling is still here and we've got a long way to go, she thinks that with the startup generation, more and more women are starting businesses. Anna believes that while the footing is not equal anywhere, Denmark offers a better deal, for example, the relatively long maternity leave. "And you're certainly not going to be fired. That's a massive support for a woman that decides to start a family. Denmark is one of the few places where you can have a baby and a career. The thing is - you need to get that job first."

GREAT OBSTACLES - AND PLENTIFUL OPPORTUNITIES

Based on their professional and personal experience, all three women agree that for internationals, it's simply a struggle to establish themselves professionally in Denmark. Leslea sees a difference in CV requirements, for example. "In Denmark, it's not about you - it's the team. So when applying for a job, you must use this vibe." Anna believes

12 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
"WE DECIDED TO HELP DISPLACED UKRAINIANS ARRIVING IN DEMARK TO LOOK FOR A JOB. WE DECIDED TO FOCUS ONLY ON STARTUPS GIVEN OUR SIGNIFICANT CONNECTIONS IN THAT SPACE."
- ANNA COEN
13 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
14 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

"HAVING MY COMPANY, GOING TO SCHOOL, HAVING MY FIRST CHILD HERE, I COULD SAY THIS WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE ANYWHERE ELSE. SO, FROM MY PERSPECTIVE, EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE OBSTACLES AS A WOMAN, FOREIGNER AND ENTREPRENEUR, I FEEL LIKE THOSE OBSTACLES WOULD HAVE BEEN SO MUCH GREATER ELSEWHERE," SHE CONCLUDES." - DIANA MEDREA-MOGENSEN

that since Denmark is not a generalist market, the best path toward success is to have a niche and a tailored CV for that particular job.

Besides applying the "Danish" way, there's no doubt in their minds that networking is a crucial piece of job search in Denmark. "Nearly 60% of jobs are filled through networking. If you don't have a network here, you must start from scratch," says

ADVERTISEMENT

Leslea. Doing it correctly is also

about building your presence and visibility- having a target list of all organisations that would be a good fit for you and connecting with people who do a similar job. "When you see them moving from one organisation to the next, you can write: 'Congratulations! I've just been on your website and can't see your job advertised yet. Has it been filled internally?' And you've got a personal dialogue going on."

But despite all the struggles, Diana concludes she's had many opportunities - thanks to Denmark.

"Having my company, going to school, having my first child here, I could say this wouldn't have been possible anywhere else. So, from my perspective, even though there are obstacles as a woman, foreigner and entrepreneur, I feel like those obstacles would have been so much greater elsewhere," she concludes. THE-INTL

For more information about these three outstanding entrepreneurs, visit their websites or follow them on social media:

Leslea, Anna and Diana

15 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

4 STEPS TO THE PERFECT COVER LETTER!

AA COVER LETTER is a crucial part of any job application. A concise, well-written and persuasive cover letter could be the difference between landing that job or hearing the words "better luck next time!". A good cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd. A good cover letter can make the hiring manager think, "I must hire this person!" Unfortunately, so many people don't know how to write a good cover letter. Here are my four steps to help you nail it.

STEP #1 - STARTING YOUR COVER LETTER

Dear Sir/Madam or Dear (Jørgen or whatever the Hiring Manager's name is).

What do you think will grab the Hiring Manager's attention more? The second one, right? So do some research and find out the name of the Hiring Manager and address it to them specifically.

But why?

Research shows that using someone's first name gets their attention. It also helps build a connection (something you definitely want to do with the Hiring Manager!) and shows consideration for them as an individual. It also shows that you've taken the time to research and go the extra mile. It sounds simple, but you'd be amazed how few people make this small effort. Want to get the job? Then start your cover letter off strong.

STEP #2 - WHY YOU'RE PERFECT FOR THE JOB

Lead with value.

If there are three words that separate the best cover letters from the mediocre, it's this. So many people spend too much time thanking the hiring manager for reading their application. Or they go on and on about why they're passionate about their hobbies. Guess what?

The Hiring Manager doesn't care. The Hiring Manager just wants to know why you're the right person for the job. They want to know how your skills and experience would add to the company. So make it easy for them!

Show the Hiring Manager how you're the best person for the job. Be specific, cover as many requirements as possible, and use examples from previous jobs. Remember to include as many numbers and statistics as possible to support your claims. 70% of Danish employers prefer a cover letter to max 1 page. So don't waste time. Get straight to the point. Want to get the job? Lead with value.

STEP #3 - WHY ARE YOU APPLYING

The single biggest mistake people make is writing about your motivation first.

Unfortunately, most people tend to sound very generic when

writing their motivations. The Hiring Manager expects that you find the job interesting - you're not going to score any points there.

Because of this, I always recommend writing your motivations

AFTER you show the Hiring Manager why you're the best person for the job. Don't spend too much time writing endlessly about why you're applying and thanking the Hiring Manager for reading your application. Keep it brief. Praise the culture and the company - align your experience.

Want to get the job? Keep your motivations brief and to the point!

STEP #4 - HOW TO END YOUR COVER LETTER

A call to action is the best way to end a cover letter.

"What's a call to action" I hear? Well, I'm glad you asked! A call to action is a closing sentence (or sentences!) to inspire the Hiring Manager to take action, such as inviting you to an interview. No worries, there's no need to reinvent the wheel or even to be subtle. I always recommend you write something like:

I look forward to hearing from you and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my experience further in an interview.

It's a simple and effective way to suggest to the hiring manager that the most logical next step is for them to invite you to an interview. Adding a call to action will significantly increase your chances of moving to the next stage.

Want to get the job? Then nail your call to action!

There you have it! Use these tips, write the best cover letter ever and find the job your talent deserves! Stay tuned for next month! THE-INTL

"A call to action is a closing sentence (or sentences!) to inspire the Hiring Manager to take action, such as inviting you to an interview."

LUKE HANNON SENIOR TALENT ACQUISITION PARTNER

Luke is a Senior Talent Acquisition Partner at SYBO Games, the company behind the smash-hit game Subway Surfers. Based in Copenhagen (by way of London)!, he has been working to make SYBO grow. He spends his time finding the best talent that the games community has to offer!

He is always keen to build relationships by bringing passion and enthusiasm to the recruitment process. An advocate of Employer Branding, Luke works with the talented people at SYBO to let the world know how great a place it is to work.

When he's not hiring awesome talents for SYBO or cycling (he does live in Copenhagen, after all!), he's busy reading his favourite books and channelling his inner Hemingway as a writer!

16 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
TALENT ACQUISITION PROFESSIONAL LUKE HANNON SHARES RELEVANT TIPS AND HINTS IN YOUR CAREER SEARCH. PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT LUKE HANNON

DISCUSSING DANISH DRESS CODE

Navigating the do's and don'ts of an office wardrobe in Denmark. Our cultural detective Jane gives us some tips and hints.

WWHEN YOU FIRST arrive in Denmark, you might observe that we (the Danes) are relatively relaxed regarding the dress code during business hours compared to many other countries. But you might not know that it differs depending on your business type and job position.

In some Danish companies, the dress code is relatively conservative - meaning wearing a suit and a tie, even in daily office work. So, for example, ladies might not be able to wear trousers unless it's a suit. This is often found at the head offices of banks and international companies operating in Denmark. Fortunately, the dress code has evolved and is not as rigid anymore.

My personal experience is that wearing a conservative outfit from time to time only meets the employees' expectations and not necessarily the company's official dress code. So do yourself a favour - check your company's official dress code before you start your new job.

Have you been invited to a business gathering after work? The invitation might say dress business/casual. That could mean wellpressed jeans, a blazer, a cardigan, a polo shirt, or a shirt with no tie will be acceptable for men. Women could wear an informal dress, smart jeans, and comfortable shoes.

If the invitation is for a formal dinner, it usually states what dress code is acceptable. It can depend on the other guests, whether they are internationals, or it might also depend on where the dinner is located. If it's been held in a fancy, well-renowned restaurant, the dress code could also be quite formal, so if you have any doubts, ask your colleagues and avoid any embarrassment. They might also have the same questions if it is their first invitation to such an event.

A few years ago, I heard a story from a new manager at a Danish bank who shared her first-hand experience with a group of underperforming IT employees.

She was the manager of several departments in the bank, and the official dress code was the same for every employee. Each section had its individual KPIs and job descriptions. All sections performed very well apart from the IT department.

This concerned her greatly, but how would she ensure a better performance from the IT department? She knew they all had the best qualifications, and several had years of experience. So what was wrong?

She observed how the group acted in their daily work for a period, and what she discovered interested her. IT people are often introverts and uncomfortable speaking to new people besides their closest colleagues. They tend to keep to themselves, do their work, upscale their creative ideas, and find suitable solutions to IT problems.

The manager accepted that she needed specific and individual rules for this department and staff. Based on her observations, she created a unique set of rules, including the dress code. First, she allowed flexible working hours as long as their deadlines were met. This meant they could go to the canteen when it wasn't as busy so they wouldn't have to interact with too many people. Finally, they were allowed to dress in what was comfortable for them. This would be acceptable if they wanted to wear loose-fit jeans, tshirts, or shorts during the summer.

Making these new changes also meant informing the rest of the company that this new dress code was acceptable and exclusively for the IT department. This also meant she had to be prepared for many questions and why this was unavailable to all employees. The results of this experiment were pleasantly surprising. From the day this new structure was made official to the whole company, the IT department began enjoying their daily work much more, resulting in better performance. THE-INTL

JANE ELGÅRD PETERSEN CULTURAL DETECTIVE

Jane is a local and grew up in Denmark, apart from a few long-term stays abroad, whilst travelling extensively. For the last 10 years, her business has supported relocating internationals to Denmark and helping businesses onboard their employees. She loves a challenge and feels there are many different expectations of moving to Denmark, depending on who you are and where you come from.

kulturdetektiven.dk linkedin

17 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT JANE ELGÅRD PETERSEN

SPRING INTO FITNESS: RENEW YOUR FITNESS GOALS

IT’S NO SECRET THAT TAKING ACTION ON ANY SET GOAL IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART - SO WELL DONE FOR SMASHING YOUR RESOL-ACTIONS SO FAR.

YYOU HAVE BEEN carving out time to exercise, cook balanced meals and embrace the NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis, which is the energy we use to do anything that is not sleeping, eating or sports-like exercise).

As the days get lighter and the mood seems to be following the weather, it’s also quite normal to feel some fitness motivation taking a slight dip, so it’s the right time to revisit your fitness goals to stay on track.

After all, you have not come this far only to come this far, right? So here are a few tips for you, just in case your motivation decides to take a spring break.

1. DON’T KEEP YOUR FITNESS GOALS A SECRET!

Tell your friends, family, and co-workers what you want to accomplish. Stating your goal(s) out loud so that other people know about your plans can help keep you from straying - and who knows who you may inspire to take action towards their goals.

2. WRITE YOUR GOALS DOWN

This will help you stay more accountable to yourself. Next, revisit this process every few months to assess your progress. If you have not been successful, ask yourself why. Then develop new goals based on what you learned.

3. KEEP TRACK OF YOUR WORKOUTS

Try scheduling them into your weekly calendar, track them online or post an exercise calendar on your fridge. Put a mark on the days you work out as a visual reminder of how many times you have exercised. If you are a gym go-er, some clubs have apps that track your check-ins, which is a great way to keep a close eye on your commitment.

4. IF YOU CAN, CHOOSE AN ACTIVITY YOU REALLY ENJOY

If you have been exercising consistently to reach your goals but have been doing something you would rather not be doing… well, skipping that said activity will become much more tempting on days when motivation is lacking. Find something fun, something you want to do rather than have to do, and I promise that it will no longer feel like a chore!

5. EXPERIMENT!

Try different exercise options as you get fitter. If you hate group fitness now, try it again in a few months. Often we dislike activities we feel we are not good at. For example, my lack of coordination prevented me from attending group classes for years, and now I’m instructing them!

6. IT’S EASIER TO CONTINUE ONCE YOU START

By now, you have experienced it for yourself: exercising becomes easier once you have established a habit. But the best part is when you reach the point where you no longer question whether or not to work out. And, when you exercise regularly, you develop a kinaesthetic memory of how great you will feel post-workout, and that’s the best motivation you can get!

7.

GET OUTSIDE!

With lighter days and increased exposure to sunshine comes the opportunity to simply get outdoors. You may have enjoyed your local gym during the colder months, but switching up the routine may light up your energy levels and desire to move more. A lunch stroll or meeting for a walk and talk over the weekend is a great way to mix movement into the new season. There are also many outdoor exercise opportunities alone or in teams, so give yourself some time to research something new and fun that may become your new healthy addiction!

Lastly, do not forget to give yourself a high-five for taking action this year, regardless of whether your goals have been met or still have some way to go. Small steps are always better than no steps, and you should feel proud of having set out to improve your well-being! THE-INTL

ALEXANDRA BECK PERSONAL TRAINER & NUTRITION COACH

Alex is a Swiss/Brit mom and wife who has lived in Copenhagen since 2009. She switched from corporate life in communications to the independent life of an outdoor personal and group fitness trainer. She coaches people of all ages and fitness levels to find fun and consistency in movement through individual and group workouts. Delivering entertainment and spreading group fitness magic is her superpower. Alex encourages you to high-five her if you see her in the capital!

@alexbeck.fit

@alexbeck.fit

@alexbeck.fit

18 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT ALEXANDRA BECK
"WITH LIGHTER DAYS AND INCREASED EXPOSURE TO SUNSHINE COMES THE OPPORTUNITY TO SIMPLY GET OUTDOORS."

BUSINESS STARTUP IN NORTH DENMARK

THE NUMBER OF STARTUP COMPANIES IN NORTH DENMARK HAS SEEN SIGNIFICANT GROWTH RECENTLY, WITH AN INCREASED REGIONAL INTEREST IN ATTRACTING FOREIGN BUSINESSES AND STARTUPS. THIS IS DRIVEN BY A DESIRE TO SPUR ECONOMIC GROWTH, BRING IN NEW IDEAS, AND CREATE A MORE DIVERSE AND CULTURALLY VIBRANT COMMUNITY.

OONE OF THE key factors driving the interest in international businesses and startups is the focus on sustainability and green energy. North Denmark is at the forefront of the drive towards a greener future. As a result, many businesses are looking to set up operations in the region to take advantage of the supportive environment and the opportunities for innovation in this area.

In addition to focusing on sustainability, North Denmark offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for international workers. The local government can guide you on paperwork and documentation such as CPR registration or getting a tax card. The local government is also keen to support these workers and help them get a new and exciting life in North Denmark, with public and volunteer programmes such as Spouse Base, Expat Host and several other opportunities organised by International House North Denmark.

Overall, North Denmark is an exciting and dynamic place to do business. The combination of a supportive environment, a focus on sustainability, and a strong interest in international entrepreneurship make it an ideal place for businesses and startups looking to make a positive impact.

SO, WHAT ABOUT STARTUP OPPORTUNITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL ENTREPRENEURS?

As an entrepreneur, knowing how and where to start can be difficult. Questions like, how do I start a company? What is the market like? And what about the culture my company is going to be operating in? These can all be overwhelming when considering starting a business in a new country. Therefore, it is a good idea to contact the local and professional networks involved in the North Danish labour market.

For example, organisations like BusinessAalborg and Startup café, located in Aalborg, and with contacts and knowledge about doing business in North Denmark, a great place to start. BusinessAalborg's main objective is to create growth and employment. Their most important job is to ensure it is easy to start, run and develop a company in Northern Denmark. They offer accessible information, counselling, guidance and contact mediation for entrepreneurs, established companies and investors.

Specific for entrepreneurship is the Startup café, which is the one-stop shop for advice, information and networking possibilities. They also organise events and offer drop-in sessions with startup consultants, lawyers, accountants, marketing specialists etc.

A STRONG SUPPORT NETWORK FOR ENTREPRENEURS

Despite some prejudices about Danes being reserved and reluctant to foreigners, many people, companies, and organisations are willing to help entrepreneurs start a company. By showing that you have a serious plan about starting a business and that you come prepared, people are more than willing to help and advise you in your entrepreneurial journey.

As an international entrepreneur, it is therefore important to remember that the North Danish market needs and wants companies to thrive and prosper. Therefore, it is a good idea to adopt a framework of thinking that the local and official business organisations are willing to help and have the primary purpose of supporting and servicing the businesses in their region. As an entrepreneur, you can get guidance and participate in workshops, events and courses all focused on improving your business.

As a concrete example, Iværksætterdanmark offers a workshop called "International Startup Service", which targets international citizens who are planning to start a business. These workshops are divided into four parts concerning the startup process, which focus on everything from the legal structure of a company and market analysis to bookkeeping. Another example is the organisation Kickstart, run by international volunteers who organise startup competitions like Startup Weekend and startup events.

So, if you are considering starting a Business in North Denmark, you are in an environment where help and support are just an email or phone call away. THE-INTL

LASSE FRIMAND JENSEN

TEAM MANAGER AND CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

 Team Manager at International House North Denmark.

 City Council member in Aalborg Municipality.

 Group chairman for the Social Democratic Party in Aalborg.

 Chairman of DANVA and Port of Aalborg.

 Father of three kids and married to Kirstine.

 Worked and lived in Africa as an expat.

 Takes an active part as a volunteer for the international community.

 Believes in international solidarity and wants the international community in Aalborg to be more aware of their rights.

lassefj.dk

lassefj.dk

lassefj.dk

19 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
JUTLAND
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH / LASSE FRIMAND JENSEN TEXT LASSE FRIMAND JENSEN

AALBORG PORTLAND

DENMARK'S CEMENT-PRODUCING GIANT!

AAALBORG PORTLAND IS Denmark's cement-producing global giant that was established in 1889 by Danish businessman Hans Holm and a Danish engineer Frederik Læssøe Smidt based on the cement patent of the British builder Joseph Aspdin in 1834. The two Danes established the factory in Rørdal – a town northeast of Aalborg.

Aalborg Portland is the only grey and white cement producer in Denmark, with an annual capacity of approximately 3 million tons, of which 2.1 million is grey cement, and 0.9 million is white cement. Grey cement is mainly intended for the domestic market, while white cement is exported to over 70 countries under the AALBORG WHITE® brand.

The Rørdal plant in Aalborg, with its 7 kilns, is one of the largest in Europe and benefits from efficient logistics, being located directly on a fjord near the gypsum quarry and with large limestone reserves inside its perimeter. The plant uses cutting-edge technologies and has one of the most advanced research and development departments in Europe, which has registered numerous patents, including low clinker content cement such as FUTURECEM™.

Environmental sustainability is at the heart of Aalborg Portland's business model, which boasts over a 60% fossil fuel replacement rate for its thermal needs. In addition, the plant currently supplies district heating to over 36,000 homes in the area, which will reach 50,000 by the end of 2022 and the construction of an 8 MW wind farm to meet its electricity needs is also underway.

Right from the start, the Rørdal factory was a very large and modern factory, ideally located by Limfjord. The chalk hills of Aalborg and the unique logistics by Limfjord are still cornerstones of Aalborg Portland's business today. Aalborg Portland has successfully made it through close to 130 years of development, primarily thanks to the people who have dedicated their lives to working in the company and over several generations, have shown their dedication to constantly improve both the products and manufacturing process. This has contributed to putting this Danish cement technology on the world map.

Aalborg Portland has defined specific medium and long-term sustainability objectives in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to promote the circular economy, reduce the im-

pact on the environment, give value to people and communities as well as promote health and safety in the workplace.

By 2030, the Group aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 30% compared to its 1990 levels. These objectives have been validated by the Science Based Target Initiative and are consistent with the goal of maintaining global warming "well below 2°C".

As part of the 2030 roadmap, significant investments in sustainability are planned.

The Group plans to significantly increase the production of low-carbon cement, which enables clinker content reduction and CO2 emissions reduction by approximately 30%. Other sustainable and high-value-added products at an advanced stage of development and commercialisation include Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC), Glass-Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) and concrete for 3D printing.

These investments will increasingly include alternative fuels use from a current 40% to 80%, a switch to natural gas and biogas in some plants, an extension of district heating and other energy efficiency projects. There are also initiatives to

reduce transport climate change impact and make the best possible use of water resources.

The cement sector has huge sustainability challenges. Concrete is part of everything surrounding us. It has accompanied urbanisation and the development of societies for centuries. Durability, strength, fire resistance and acoustic insulation properties, wide availability of raw materials and low production costs have made cement and concrete among the most widespread building materials on our planet.

Developing innovative low-carbon products and applying circular economy principles, including reuse at the end-of-products life cycle, are challenges facing the cement sector in tackling climate change.

Aalborg Portland is the world's leading white cement player, operating in 18 countries and 5 continents worldwide in the building materials sector. THE-INTL

MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES

PRESIDENT & CEO OXFORD BUSINESS SERVICES APS

Mariano has over 40 years global experience as a business executive. He spent ten years with KPMG, so far thirty years with British Chambers of Commerce (while also running Oxford Business Services ApS). He is a British citizen, who grew up in Kent, went to boarding school in Sussex and has a British university education. He has been married to a Dane for over 45 years and has held over 150 official anti-Brexit speeches since 2016. He both speaks and writes Danish without difficulty.

oxford-business.com

20 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS AALBORG PORTLAND WEBSITE TEXT MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES
"THE CEMENT SECTOR HAS HUGE SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGES."

BRIOCHE

OF FRENCH ORIGIN, BRIOCHE IS MADE FROM ENRICHED DOUGH THAT’S A LITTLE SWEETER AND SOFTER THAN MOST BREAD. IT’S DELICIOUS TO EAT AND EASY TO MAKE! PHOTOGRAPHS & TEXT: NATASHA LIVIERO / UNSPLASH

BRIOCHE

MAKES 24 SMALL BUNS

INGREDIENTS:

180g milk, warm

30g white granular sugar

12g dry yeast

800g cake flour

METHOD:

1. Set oven to 2000C or 1800C (fan).

2. Grease two 25cm x 10cm loaf tins.

10g salt

150g eggs

150g unsalted butter, room temperature and cubed

1 small egg, beaten

3. Warm the milk (not hot) and add the sugar and yeast. Stir and leave to rest for a few minutes. The yeast will activate and form bubbles.

4. Combine the flour, salt and eggs in the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook.

5. On low speed, add the milk mixture and mix for approximately 4 minutes.

6. Increase speed to medium and mix for approximately 6 minutes.

7. Reduce speed to low and add the butter, one cube at a time. The mixture will look ‘sloppy’. Increase speed to medium and beat for a further 5 minutes. A smooth, shiny dough will develop. The dough will be very elastic and soft to the touch.

8. Form the soft dough into a ball and place it in a large, greased bowl. Cover with cling film and leave in a warm environment until double in size.

9. Divide the dough in half. Scale and divide each half into 41/42g portions — there should be 12 portions to each half.

10. Roll each portion into a ball and place it into the loaf tin. You should finish with two rows of six, sideby-side. Repeat with the second half.

11. Cover and leave to prove until almost double in size.

12. Brush lightly with egg wash and bake for 20-22 minutes and golden.

13. Remove from the oven and rest for a few minutes before turning the brioche buns onto a cooling rack.

14. Best eaten warm and on the day they are made.

Notes:

*These brioche buns are delicious with savoury and sweet toppings. Simple options include spreading with butter or olive oil and a sprinkling of course salt as a main meal accompaniment or spreading with butter and a sweet topping for breakfast or a snack on the go.

*Loaf tin size is approximate. Slightly smaller or larger will also work, as will a round or square tin.

NATASHA LIVIERO - PASTRY CHEF

Natasha is a pastry chef who is South African by birth and Croatian by blood. She spent many years working for a wellness publication but did an about-turn at the beginning of 2020 when she joined a culinary school to fulfil a lifelong dream to study patisserie. She’s passionate about European patisserie and loves spending time in the kitchen experimenting with recipes (while quibbling with her fe-line friends), and is always on the hunt for interesting new cookbooks.

natashaliviero

21 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM FOOD ART

ICONIC WOMEN OF FASHION

FIRSTLY, I WOULD like to preface this piece…by saying this list is not set in stone but rather a written snapshot of my fashion vision board. "When you hear the title fashion icon… who comes to mind?" The usual list includes Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana, Grace Jones, Cher, and Madonna (rightfully so). However, I wanted to make some personal amendments to that lineup…to feature modern-day icons. So, in celebration of Women's History (and my birthday) during March… let's drop some fashion muses.

#1 The eclectic bohemian

Someone recently asked me, "what would you call your style?"... I instantly answered, "Eclectic Afro-Bohemian" So it's no surprise which genre of styling we are going to speak about first. Some early pioneers of bohemian fashion include Cher, Donna Summer, Stevie Nicks, and my personal copy & paste…Lisa Bonet. The names that come to mind when I think of present-day bohemian styling are Erykah Badu, Zoe Kravitz, Solange Knowles, and Tracee Ellis Ross. If you click on the text link, you already know why these dope celebrities are my inspiration in my everyday ensembles.

#2 Androgynous fashion

Having the characteristics of both feminine and male energies was an essence that Grace Jones capitalised on. Her chiselled bone structure, paired with her avant-garde attire… really left an impression on the fashion industry (even now). Present-day, non-binary, genderless fashion is still alive and slaying. Tailoring and baggy denim can be seen as popular street styles. So when I am recreating my best 'if I was a boy' look…Janelle Monet, Julia Fox, Emma Corrin, and Letitia Wright are a few sirens whose call I answer.

#3 Effortlessly classy

It takes a certain calibre of a woman to evoke a sense of class…with just the whisper of her name. Princess Diana, Diana Ross (maybe it's a Diana thing), and Jackie Kennedy are a few names that carry grace. The People's Princess's signature style can still be seen crossing the street in contemporary times. The group of women I fashionably look up to and aspire to manifest the same chic ambience is iconic. The People's First Lady, Michelle Obama, Zendaya, and Kelly Rowland (sorry to the beyhive) are some of the frontrunners of elegance.

#4 Trending

With the emergence of social media, we also see the gravity of the term' influencer'. You had to truly be a household name to emit the same purchasing sway back in the day. Famous fashionistas such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Kate Moss were on the walls of many budding future hashtags. Sometimes curiosity gets the best of me, and I want to take a peek into upcoming trends…there are a few 'trendy' women I type into my search bar. Despite the controversy, Kim Kardashian West is a go-to for designers to push out upcoming trends. Doja Cat and Cardi B are other target celebrities that fashion houses like to utilise.

#5 Street style goddesses

To avoid repeating my words, I'll just leave a little note here… "almost all the women mentioned in this article can hold it down in the streets' style category." I have to memorialise the previous trailblazers via text: Gwen Stafani, Aaliyah, and Madonna (no obvious explanation needed). Street Style is a genre that adheres to its own set of 'no rules' rules. Where the true fashion sense finally comes to the surface. I harbour several style woman crushes, but for time's sake…I will only name a few. Rihanna, Teyana Taylor, and Bella Hadid are at the top of my list. These women have seamlessly created looks and trends by simply running errands.

The shopping dream team

In an alternate universe…there may be a chance that crossing paths with some of these fashion icons could happen…right? Well, let's explore those daydreams... "Who would you want helping you scour the racks of clothes?" Just from a quick skim of all the women mentioned…my team is at least 10 people (sorry, not sorry). Be that as it may, "Miss Erykah Badu…if you are reading this…it was always love at first sight." THE-INTL

VANESSA PETERSEN JEWELRY DESIGNEROWNER OF STYLEFREED

Dubbed the 'Jill Of All Trades', Vanessa hails from the sunshine state of Florida. After visiting Copenhagen several times as a former International Flight Attendant, she permanently settled in Denmark in 2017 with her husband. Currently, Vanessa is the owner of the hand-crafted jewellery brand, the Style Freed. She creates personalised jewellery centred around healing crystals worldwide. Being a creative "mompreneur' has also allowed Vanessa to focus on her son's developmental journey with autism in Denmark.

@stylefreed @thestylefreed @stylefreed

22 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
1 2 3 4 5

FEMINISM IN DENMARK

HOW FAR HAVE WE REALLY COME?

KKVINDEBEVÆGELSEN, OR The Women's Movement, was a pivotal part of Danish history, particularly during the counter-culture period of the late 1960s and 1970s. Women boldly declared themselves feminists and fought for increased equality through protests featuring marches and songs. This put Denmark at the forefront of many areas considered "women's issues", such as the right to abortion and access to well-funded childcare. How, then, did Denmark end up branded as the least feminist country in the world following a 2019 study?

UNDERSTANDING FEMINISM

Many friends from other Western-European countries would say they were feminists because they believe in equality between men and women. Danish friends and family, on the other hand, would often say that they believed in equality but didn't consider themselves feminists, as they didn't actively protest or engage with feminist movements. They also didn't want to be seen as extreme, a typical response to identity politics in Denmark, where the culture is firmly focused on not standing out from the crowd. This vast difference in the connotations of the word feminism perhaps explains why so few people identify as feminists in a society with high gender equality. However, perhaps this is because the Kvindebevægelse was so strong, leading many Danes to believe that the fight for equality was already finished.

#METOO

Beginning in the US in 2017, the #MeToo movement gave women a voice to speak out against sexual and gender-based violence. While this led to ugly revelations in the US and UK, Denmark remained quiet on the subject. I remember talking about it with Danish friends, who believed this was because Denmark simply didn't share the problems. As other countries grappled with the issues in their societies and became more aware of feminism, Denmark didn't, leading to the 2019 title of "least feminist nation in the world", according to The Guardian after analysis of YouGovCambridge Globalism Project data.

However, three short years later, #MeToo exploded into Danish life, with women reporting sexual abuse across all areas of life, particularly in the media and politics. Since then, violence against women and girls has been more prominent in Danish politics and society.

PERCEPTIONS

In her brilliant book about life as an expat in Iceland, Sarah Moss examined crime in the Nordic region, particularly against wom-

en, and reported on this. She observed that while crime was mentioned in Icelandic-language newspapers, English-language publications for expats and tourists often focused on the positives, giving those who couldn't speak the local language the inaccurate impression there were hardly any offences committed. Actually, Nordic countries' crime rates are broadly average for Western Europe, although society perceives them as safer.

FEMICIDE

In 2021, a study found that femicide committed by a partner is the single most common homicide in Denmark. In the analysis of this, migrant women were highlighted as being particularly vulnerable, as a lack of social network, language skills, and dependency on male partners are all factors that make it harder to report gender-based abuse. Statistics and facts such as this are sobering and vital reminders that international women need to look out for one another, even in a country famous for hygge and high quality of life. While gender equality in terms of the pay gap may be better here than in many other countries, International Women's Day is an excellent time to remember that true equality must be fought for and maintained. International women have an essential part to play in ensuring that equality counts for everyone in Denmark, no matter their background. THE-INTL

"In 2021, a study found that femicide committed by a partner is the single most common homicide in Denmark."

HEATHER STORGAARD WRITER

Heather Storgaard comes from Northern Scotland, grew up in Switzerland, and lived in England and Germany. She met her Danish and soon-tobe British husband back in 2017, and they now split their time between Central Scotland and Helgenæs, a peninsula in rural Eastern Jutland. Languages and cultural studies are a big passion, leading Heather to pursue a degree in Culture and Heritage and a career in photography and translation.

@heatherstorgaard

23 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT HEATHER STORGAARD

CELEBRATING WOMEN GLOBALLY!

AAS I GET older, I like women more and more. That's not to say I like men less - I feel I have more connection with women.

THE WHY

Women's life experiences are very different from men's because of our biology, and I feel that some things are just women's business and should be kept as such. For example, recently, my sister-in-law gave birth. This is when women close rank and help in ways men just can't. Seeing a new mother's struggle and supporting them gives such satisfaction, especially as all that knowledge of breastfeeding and baby care becomes redundant so quickly. I think these experiences bring women closer and build unique bonds. This allows women to make connections and deepen understanding on another level.

When I look back at moments when someone famous has died, and the world stood still, it is often women's deaths that cause this. For me personally, it was Princess Diana. The deaths of Freddie Mercury and George Michael saddened me, but it was nothing compared to how I felt about Diana's death.

HOW IT MANIFESTS

For me, it means that I seek out women's company more. I'm happy to go to quiz nights, girly nights at friends' homes or just have various friends to interact with. Since being an expat, I feel certain female friends also provide different roles in my life. Some friends are for emotional support, while others are about business or career. Some remind me of my past and where I've come from, while others understand just a facet of me. We reflect back at each other on this connection, so it becomes really fulfilling. Before being an expat, I wanted female friends to fulfil every role in my life, but now I definitely look for different aspects in individuals. I really want to develop my friendships too. For various reasons, I know a lot about money and pensions - these are not typical topics for women, and often women are poorer for not discussing them. I always talk to my friends about these. I want my friends to be okay in all parts of their life, not just one part. Often my (unsolicited!) advice is listened to but not acted on (sometimes with sad consequences). I don't think this matters - it's just important to keep going and helping. In every system and society, small advantages can be made through smart moves or choices; women need to be on top of this and not rely on men.

Women's lives around the world are so different. In Denmark, women work full-time. In Japan, women are often full-time mothers and leave work when they get married. In the UK, there are various roles, full-time, part-time etc. - seeing how this impacts is fascinating. When I lived in Japan, I was horrified to learn how little choice women seemed to have. If they didn't go to university, their options were limited. By the end of my stay, I realised that the lack of choice actually made Japanese women happier.

Pursuits like preparing amazing lunch boxes for their children and husbands and being good housewives were really valued. I think the bonds between women in patriarchal societies are stronger than those in liberated countries. Japanese women really close ranks in a way unknown to western women. It is this that I love the most, the ability of women everywhere to adapt and get the best out of life regardless of what life throws at us. THE-INTL

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023

The theme for International Women's Day this year is Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender-equal future. Based on the priority theme for the United Nations 67th Commission on the Status of Women – Cracking the Code highlights the role that bold, transformative ideas, inclusive technologies, and accessible education can play in combatting discrimination and the marginalisation of women globally. Innovation is a driver of change, and by embracing new technologies and championing women's unique skills and knowledge in science, technology, mathematics, and engineering (STEM), we can accelerate our progress towards a gender-equal future.

While innovation can transform lives, we know there are still many barriers to equality. Access to inclusive digital technologies and education is critical. We must innovate to close the digital divide that keeps so many women offline and away from new opportunities.

By ensuring equal access to education for women and girls and creating clear pathways and inclusive workplaces for women in STEM, we can leverage the transformative power of inclusive innovation, so critical to cracking the code to gender equality.

For more information, visit the UN Women website.

24 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
SHANI BISHOP SHARES HER THOUGHTS ON FEMALE RELATIONSHIPS AND INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY. PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH / UNWOMAN.ORG TEXT SHANI BISHOP

WOMEN: THE POWERHOUSE OF EDUCATION

WWHEN THINKING BACK over the years spent in education, there is no denying that many ond memories of my former teachers tend to be female. This isn't because I didn't connect with my male teachers, but there were fewer of them, and, if any, in my primary education. As an educator now, there is still a notable lack of males in the primary sector, but it has improved a little in the secondary sector. Ironically, it is in the managerial domain where most male educators can be found. Nevertheless, women remain the profession's champions, which should be celebrated while working to support the profession's gender inequality, and expansion needs to continue.

Recent statistics in Denmark support this, with females accounting for 68% of teachers in primary schools, while 53% of male teachers can be found in secondary education. These figures are not far removed from European statistics, which show that in 2019, 73 % of the teaching workforce was female. And a survey by Zippia in the US shared that 74% of teachers are women. Interestingly, Denmark has the highest percentage of males in the teaching profession, with a percentage of 38%, as opposed to Latvia, where the percentage of males is only 13%.

WHY DO WOMEN POPULATE THE TEACHING FORCE?

The usual reason for the large number of women in the teaching profession is that females are more nurturing. This is because they are usually mothers and have the much-needed maternal and intuitive instincts towards children. This is a fair argument, but some males have a natural talent for relating to children.

In addition, wages in the education sector have traditionally been low and have not attracted primary wage earners. Sadly, it has often been considered a secondary job, which could be worked around household tasks and childcare, thus a more appropriate form of employment for the female workforce.

Furthermore, many men do not see teaching as a 'masculine job' and seek other alternatives. So much so that many teaching colleges are trying to level up gender inequality with initiatives such as offering financial study incentives and rebranding the image of a teacher. The deconstruction of the image that a teacher is an older, kind, grandmother-type person into a dynamic, energetic person with a modern perspective of young people and the issues they may struggle to overcome is needed.

By reworking the identity of an educator and promoting a concept that a male teacher is more like a sports coach, who is seen as an inspirational, strong, and influential male, there is a chance it may go some way to increasing the number of men wanting to study and be an educator. However, many more initiatives need to be put forward to bring a surge of males into the teaching profession.

A GROWING NEED FOR TEACHERS

The need to attract more teachers, irrespective of gender, is a topic of hot debate. Denmark and other countries face personnel shortages, with 45% of lower secondary teachers being 50 or older. Therefore, an influx of new teachers is needed. Unfortunately,

the situation is not good, with 44% of teachers leaving the profession in the first five years. To add to this crisis, only 0.4 million, 7%, of the workforce are younger teachers under 30 years old in the three education levels.

With the persistent lack of resources, increased challenges in supporting young people, unsustainable government rulings in some countries, low wages and varying levels of job satisfaction, there is so little to draw the much-needed young population into the profession. Therefore, an urgent re-think is required.

While working on ways to entice young professionals, it is equally important to retain the current workforce, whose average age is 44. They hold the much-needed experience to maintain good standards. More incentives such as better working conditions, reduced work hours, higher wages, sustained professional development, and greater flexibility over the curriculum taught within the national guidelines are essential and will go some way to improve the status quo.

The teaching profession is not always given the status it deserves; without it, there would be no new generation of educated young people. Therefore, it is high time the profession and those in it, especially the female contingent, receive the accolades they deserve! THE-INTL

Sources:

https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/-/ edn-20211005-1

https://www.womenshistory.org/articles/why-are-so-many-teachers-women

https://education.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/document-library-docs/et-monitor-report-2019-denmark_en.pdf

https://www.oecd.org/education/talis/TALIS2018_CN_DNK_ Vol_I.pdf

MONIKA PEDERSEN INTERNATIONAL EDUCATOR

Monika comes from the London area of the UK, where she worked in the state system and the international school system, as an English teacher of 11-18 students and then a section leader. She has also worked in Germany and now in Denmark. She has an overview of the British, International, and American educational systems and is currently learning about the Danish system. She has been in education for 32 years and continues to enjoy the profession. She has relocated to Copenhagen as she is married to a Dane. She enjoys jogging, waterside walks, and cooking.

@monikapedersen

@monikapedersen

25 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
"The usual reason for the large number of women in the teaching profession is that females are more nurturing."
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT MONIKA PEDERSEN

LEADING THE CONVERSATION ABOUT AUTISM

AUTISME UNGDOM (AUTISM YOUTH) IS AN ORGANISATION FOR AUTISTIC YOUTH, AS WELL AS RELATIVES AND FRIENDS OF AUTISTIC YOUTH. THE ORGANISATION WORKS TOWARDS CREATING BETTER CONDITIONS FOR YOUTH WITH AUTISM IN DENMARK.

AAT THE ORGANISATION’S helm stands its chairperson - Silke Ena Svare, a 22-year-old woman who is autistic and has ADHD. “At Autism Ungdom, both the board and in the organisation, we're all autistic ourselves - this makes us unique,” explains Silke.

STRUGGLE WITH GETTING DIAGNOSED

Getting a formal diagnosis was a struggle for Silke. “I’ve always been an obviously autistic child, but because I did well in school, they didn’t see the need to check if I had a diagnosis. Eventually, my mental health got so bad I considered taking my own life at 14.”

Silke saw several specialists throughout her childhood. When she was three, specialists did not consider autism because she was a girl. At the age of 12, her doctor thought she was too smart to be autistic and sat too still to have ADHD. "I had to go through all of this, even though my autistic behaviour was well-described in my old records. My schools always knew that my senses were getting overloaded quickly and that I had to take breaks in silent rooms to get through the day, and I had difficulty socialising with other kids."

By age 16, she had discovered that she was autistic. "After that, I finally talked to a specialist who knew about autism, specifically autism in women. It took her only two conversations to diagnose me with autism." It took another doctor's visit when she was 20 for her also to be diagnosed with ADHD.

"The only time I came home with the right diagnosis was when I could tell the doctors what I thought and what they should be checking for. It's unfair - it should be the specialists who can see your needs and difficulties, and not the other way around."

LEADING THE CONVERSATION

After all these experiences, Silke later read a post on Facebook about someone aiming to make a youth organisation for autistic people. Her first thought was, "I should be a part of that". She started out by being responsible for Autisme Ungdoms economy. However, after the original chairperson wanted to take the organisation in a more political direction, a significant branch of Autisme Ungdom saw a more social way forward and asked Silke to be the new chairperson.

The organisation has three goals. Firstly, they'd like to create more autistic communities in society so young autistic people can meet others like them. Secondly, they want to share more knowledge about autism in society, especially from autistic youth's perspectives. "In Denmark, we've seen parents or psychiatrists defining how we see and define autism, and we'd like to see autistic people leading the conversation." And lastly, they're working to create political change and better opportunities for equal access to education and employment.

This focus is increasingly important as more and more people realise that they are autistic and searching to be formally diagnosed. "Demands from our society are getting higher. You need to achieve more and more to be successful, which creates a lot of stress for people. Autistic people have a harder time meeting these demands. Having a formal diagnosis is like an escape card, an explanation as to why they can't do all the things demanded of them." This, in combination with the improvement of knowledge about autism, and this knowledge being more accessible through social media, will hopefully en-

MICHAELA MEDVEDOVÁ comes from Slovakia and moved to Denmark 3 years ago to study for her Master's degree. She says living in Odense is the perfect city for her because it's not too large to be intimidating, but still exciting! She works at Umbraco as a Magical Copy Whisperer and started a podcast with her friends - @humans.of.sdu. She loves watching and talking about movies, Harry Potter, karaoke nights (even though she can't sing to save her life), and pub quizzes (winning them, to be specific).

sure that people may recognise their own autistic behaviour.

Waiting lists for being examined by a psychiatrist are very long - currently 64 weeks on average. And before you can get onto a waiting list, you must first go through your general practitioner for a referral. "This a problem because when people finally reach out to their general practitioner, they often have reached a point where they have developed anxiety or other symptoms."

MORE RESOURCES, MORE KNOWLEDGE

Silke also sees the organisation of the Danish welfare system as a problem since municipalities decide whether a person is eligible for support and assistance, and municipalities also finance this support and assistance. "We're seeing that many municipality social workers are not granting support because the Danish government is unwilling to finance or ensure enough resources are available. So we see a lot of children who aren't allowed to go to the right school and youth who can't get the guidance they need to get a job."

Silke sees a need for more resources and a clear separation between the authority that grants assistance and support and the authority that finances this assistance. "#enmillionstemmer made a legal proposal about centralising the power to grant assistance so that it was based on specialised knowledge. Right now, disability assistance is underfunded, and as many more people are being formally diagnosed, we need more resources and better knowledge in our psychiatry system. Many specialists haven't refreshed their knowledge in 15-20 years, and so much research has been done since then."

Silke sees that there has been a lot of pushback from the government and that other areas are being prioritised over disability issues. In Silke's view, this can result in an entire generation of youth being stressed and burned out before they are old enough to enter the workforce, robbing them of the opportunity to provide value for society. "Providing more resources needs to be seen as an investment instead of a huge bill. And the investment will pay itself back in two, five, or ten years. Suddenly people wouldn't be on welfare or sick leave. Instead, they would get better, work, and 'earn' back the money invested in them."

This creates a stark difference between how the private sector responds to these needs and how the public sector addresses them. "When I talk to the public sector, they recognise an issue. But it's costly for them to listen and help solve the issue. Private organisations, however, are very interested in making workspaces more autism-friendly. And they're acting on it quite fast too."

But in general, Silke sees an improvement in how much society wants to listen. When Autisme Ungdom began, she had to convince people she was worth talking to and that young autistic people could speak up for themselves. "Some didn't even think our organisation would last more than a year. But now a lot of people come to me for advice. That's quite nice. After I'm done being the chairperson for Autisme Ungdom, I hope to work in another organisation and continue to help autistic people in our society." THE-INTL

For more information about the organisation, or if you want to help and get involved, contact: www.autismeungdom.dk

SARA R. NEWELL is from Canada, went to high-school in Costa Rica, and has worked and studied in Iceland and Denmark. She is a disability rights activist and has a master's degree in Technological Business Development and Biomedical Engineering from Aarhus University. Sara has lived in Denmark since 2003, and lives with her husband and daughter. She hopes to contribute and share insights with others who have children with disabilities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sararose-newell-b1904726 / https://m.facebook.com/groups/bakopomdepaarorende

26 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS JOHAN HASLUND / LASSE SON OLSEN / PRIVATE TEXT MICHAELA MEDVEDOVÁ / SARA R. NEWELL

THE SPRING PLAN:

CHECKING IN WITH NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS!

AAT THE BEGINNING of the year, I wrote about the art of not giving a f*ck as a new year's resolution. The meaning behind this was to forget about resolutions and just be you, trust the process and go with the flow. So, as we approach Spring, how is that going?

It's usually said that Spring is a perfect time to plan as everything returns to life from a long Winter hibernation. The energy feels livelier, slowly picking up speed again. Indeed, the longer days inject a boost of freshness and motivation for taking action, renewing, and finally making that change or kickstarting something you've always wanted to do. It just feels right.

CHECKING IN

Three months into the new year, checking in with yourself regularly is healthy. Checking in with yourself can be a simple stock take. Pause a little and look at how the year has been so far. Gain an idea of whether you align with what you want and where you want to be. Have there been more positives than negatives? More wins and celebrations? If the answer is yes, I consider that as being on the right track. When you feel more positive, you see the world differently, and the chances of manifesting positive things increase. I found gaining an overview of time spent very practical and valuable. If there had been a goal set, has it progressed, and is it heading in the direction I want? All of these assessments serve as self-regulation tools.

KEEP THE VISION, REVIEW AND PIVOT

Not having a resolution doesn't mean not having a vision or a goal of where we want to go. It just means letting go of control, surrendering, and trusting life's ebbs and flows. With that in mind, checking in with ourselves keeps us on track. The minireview will become a blueprint for staying focused towards the direction we are heading while allowing room and space to pivot.

One of the reasons why resolutions don't work is the pressure of the year-long commitment. In every aspect of life, it's always easier to manage when we break down big

tasks into mini bite-size chunks – the same goes for goals and plans. So if you want or need a plan, or a resolution, instead of promising for a year, make it a monthly or even weekly plan. In that case, it feels way easier to manage and more practical. In addition, when you've achieved it, it boosts your morale to keep the momentum going.

INSTANT MOOD BOOSTER

Life is not always smooth sailing. While there are no quick fixes to change any circumstances, we find ourselves in, changing how you feel and see can be pivotal, and there's a little instant mood booster that I always find helpful – tidying a small part of the flat and decluttering. Believe it or not, it works EVERY TIME. In many new-age schools, feng shui or doing a Marie-Kondo, tidying just a little cabinet, rearranging things, and ruthlessly throwing unnecessary items away while taking stock is therapeutic. Instantly afterwards, you feel the flow of energy and a shift in the mood, a little unstuck, gaining clarity. It symbolises a stagnant or stuck spot, and as soon as

you remove something, it clears out space for something new or just space to breathe. The plan is to promise ourselves to look after our mind, body and soul and let go of control. Just enjoy the ride while keeping the vision.

OPHELIA WU FASHION CONSULTANT & JOURNALIST

Like her hometown Hong Kong, Ophelia has a diverse background and upbringing. She moved to Copenhagen in 2019 after 10 years of living in London. Her fashion and journalism career began in 2007 at ELLE Hong Kong magazine, and later on as an online stylist at Net-A-Porter.com in the UK; she has worked with all sorts of creatives, brands and celebrities globally. She now works on everything fashion and communicationrelated. With her love of travelling and places her work brought her to, people she met from all walks of life inspired her to start her own business M for Minimal: a place to raise the awareness of going back to basics through conscious consumption and mindfulness with a touch of spirituality - something she has been practising since her teenage years.

@mforminimal.com

@mforminimal.mfm

@opheliawu

27 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
THE-INTL
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT OPHELIA WU
"IN EVERY ASPECT OF LIFE, IT'S ALWAYS EASIER TO MANAGE WHEN WE BREAK DOWN BIG TASKS INTO MINI BITE-SIZE CHUNKS – THE SAME GOES FOR GOALS AND PLANS."

THE HAPPIEST WOMEN LIVE IN SCANDINAVIA!

WHY ARE SCANDINAVIAN WOMEN SO HAPPY, AND HOW CAN YOU ACHIEVE THE SAME LEVEL OF HAPPINESS? MOTHER AND WRITER NATÁLIA ŠEPITKOVÁ SHARES HER VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDE.

LLAST YEAR, THE World Happiness Report 2022 named Denmark the second happiest country in the world. Of the 5.9 million population, 2.98 million are female – so that's a lot of happy Danish women.

What is the reason that Scandinavian women are happier than other European women? A higher income may play a role, but as they say, money can't buy happiness. The main essence of a happy and satisfied life is entirely different.

A SAFE PLACE TO LIVE

In general, good economic conditions, a sense of security, a low level of corruption and a high level of freedom and social support influence satisfaction in a country. The happiness of Denmark is undoubtedly a consequence of the good economic situation of the population and a well-adjusted social system.

It's also about social trust - Danes trust the state and institutions, and they also trust each other. A life based on trust strengthens the feeling of security and well-being. In the World Happiness Report, social trust often appears as one of the main factors of happiness. Especially for the female population, it is a great relief to trust others.

The 2022 Best Countries for Women list is based on responses from more than 9,000 women surveyed who linked different countries to five specific attributes: concern for human rights, gender equality, income equality, progressiveness and security. Scandinavian countries make up the majority of this list of the top countries for women, and Denmark ranked 4th.

IN THE SAME BOAT

Women in Denmark are satisfied even with such a simple but essential thing - equality. The country promotes gender equality and offers an earnings-related childcare system and a parental leave policy that is among the most flexible in the European Union.

The country's well-developed work-life balance allows Danish women to pursue careers and have time for family and leisure activities. However, for a comfortable life for women, it is essential to know that they are determined to raise children and take care of the household. A fair division of tasks in the family gives them personal freedom to decide how much time they will devote to themselves and their development.

BUSY LADIES

Evening classes, museum visits, round-the-world trips, bike rides, hikes, swimming, sewing, knitting, and gardening. This is the hectic schedule of the average happiest retired woman, and being active keeps them young and improves their well-being. This study claims that retired Danish women are the most content in Europe, with those aged 65-74 scoring 8.6 out of 10 on the happiness scale. On one side, it is about the perspective that comes with age. But, on the other side, there is something about the experience of 'living Danishly' that also helps.

They receive money from the municipality, which is enough to live on. They have enhanced social networks because they've had plenty of time to foster friendships and extracurricular interests throughout their careers. They are pensioners with time on their hands, thanks mainly to the welfare state, which subsidises daycare places for children from six months, and excuses grandparents from a second career as unpaid babysitters.

STEPS TO HAPPINESS

Although women from other European countries don't have the same influences that make Scandinavian women happier than others, the Danish lifestyle can undoubtedly inspire them. Danes love sports and motion activities. They spend plenty of time outside, and, of course, they cycle a lot. The secret of happiness is also connected with good relations. Many researchers confirm that happier people have quality friendships and organised family relationships around them.

And don't forget the hygge. This Danish phenomenon is not just a cliché, but it works. Hygge strives for everyday little pieces of happiness that make our lives more beautiful and content. Hygge is about pleasant moments, simple presence, and small pleasures like coffee, dessert or chocolate. It is also about comfort, gratitude, harmony, and truce. No Dane would be happy without hygge, I'm sure. THE-INTL

NATÁLIA ŠEPITKOVÁ FREELANCE JOURNALIST AND WRITER

Natalia is a Slovak journalist based in Aalborg, Denmark. She has around 15 years of experience in journalism. Her experiences as an editor and a reporter were founded in Slovak magazines and newspapers. She was also working as a TV reporter, a TV moderator and a host in radio broadcasting. Part of her career included working with PR and marketing. Natália is also a content creator on her social media. Follow her blog www.mamavdansku.com , where she writes about life in Denmark.

@Natália

@Mama v Dánsku

@Mum in Denmark

"IT'S ALSO ABOUT SOCIAL TRUST - DANES TRUST THE STATE AND INSTITUTIONS, AND THEY ALSO TRUST EACH OTHER."

28 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
PHOTOGRAPHS UNSPLASH TEXT NATÁLIA ŠEPITKOVÁ
29 MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM March 8 #EmbraceEquity internationalwomensday.com
MARCH 2023 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM # S T A N D W I T H U K R A I N E # P E A C E F O R U K R A I N E

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.