The International - September 2019

international

the

ISSN 2596-5220

COPING IN COPENHAGEN

GETTIN' FIGGY WITH IT

COFFEE = JOB POSSIBILITIES

NEW PODCAST COLLABORATION!

AARHUS CITY WELCOMES YOU

SEPTEMBER 2019 - THE-INTL.COM

KATHY FROM ACTIVE ACTION

TAKING DENMARK BY STORM!

FREE

PAPER

2

TIME TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONALLY HAPPINESS IS A STATE OF MIND, SO GET INTO A HAPPY STATE THIS INTERNATIONAL DAY. GET OUT THERE, MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS, NETWORK AND KEEP A POSITIVE ATTITUDE!

A

AS I SIT in my office, cooking - yes, literally

cooking from how hot it is today, I can't believe that we are already in the last days of August. I start getting a little anxious as I see the sun sets earlier and earlier, and start grumbling to my family about the cold starting to return.

But not this September, I've mentally prepared myself to not get into that mindset of complaining, a mindset too many of us fall into - yes, I'm talking to you! Instead, I'm going to welcome the Autumn with open arms as we kick-off to a fun-filled packed month ahead, see our events (page 3-7). The big news in the events section is our new collaboration with three of the funniest guys you could ever meet. Marius, Will, and Owen make up the delightful podcast of Coping in Copenhagen, and we are a small part of it every month!

This month one of our two stories will feature Kathy our cover girl (pg 8-11), she is so excited, and we encourage you to tune in 5th September to hear what she has to say!

The buzz at the moment is International Citizen day happening at DGI Byen on the 21st September. The event is a whole day affair 10:00-15:00 and the greater Copenhagen area is calling it their biggest event for internationals yet. They will cover housing, career, and leisure. We will be there to say hi too! Some come down, grab a couple of copies of The International and have a good time. And, let us not forget the rest of the

country - Aarhus, and Aalborg are hosting events to celebrate their internationals too.

Read more about Aarhus city welcome (page 17), an event not to be missed, you can also pick up a free copy of The International in their goodie bags.

As is becoming common practice with us here at The International, we have team members that leave and new ones that arrive. We are happy to welcome Greete who will share her knowledge of how to get a job

in Denmark, a huge concern with most internationals when they move here, and Greete will be sharing some great tips and hints every issue (page 16).

We have our usual helpful columns from Laura about education (page 29); adopting a kitten and socialising them (page 30); Mariano tackles recycling for those curious about how it works in Denmark (page 13), and Erin gets 'figgy' with it (page 22).

We have a new team member joining us from September, our new intern Lara will be taking some considerable load off my shoulders by working with our social media and the new upcoming website!

Lastly but by no means least we say goodbye to our distribution and all-round lovely guy Satya. Satya and his wife are heading home to Indonesia. He has been such an amazing part of our team, and whether rain or snow always turns up with a smile. We are going to miss you so much Satya and wish you all the best in whatever you choose to do next.

So, on that sad note - keep smiling out there, Denmark is a great place to live and I look forward to seeing some of you at DGI Byen in Copenhagen.

"Maybe the journey isn't so much about becoming anything. Maybe it's about un-becoming everything that isn't really you so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place."

- Girl gone international

Love,

LYNDSAY JENSEN - EDITOR & FOUNDER THE-INTL.COM

MEET THE TEAM SALES For advertising sales, please contact: sales@the-intl.com ADDRESS

The International ApS, Industrivej 14, 4683 Rønnede; +45 42676745

PRINT

Provins-Trykkeriet ApS, Vordingborg

COVER PICTURE EDITOR & FOUNDER LYNDSAY JENSEN has twenty years' experience in the advertising and publishing industry, and holds degrees in Business and Desktop Publishing (print and repro).

Born in the UK, and brought up in South Africa, she has the ability to understand different cultures, and is passionate about networking. She is a wife of twenty two years and mother to two boys aged 21 and 15. She loves travel, photography and art. lyndsay@the-intl.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR & PARTNER

INTERN

DISTRIBUTION

LARA PAUNOVIC is a Con-

SATYA PRAPANCA is mar-

KENNETH MACALPINE is a Nordic Financial Manager in the Transport industry. His education is in Finance and he has a business degree obtained in the UK. Born in Norway he moved to Denmark at the age of 22. He is of Danish Scottish ancestry and lives in southern Denmark with his large multi-national family consisting of Danish, Irish and Brazilian heritage. He is always interested in new challenges and loves to live life to the fullest. kenneth@the-intl.com

structing Architecture Stu-

ried, and moved to Denmark

dent at KEA from Croatia.

one and a half years ago

She moved to Denmark to

from Indonesia. His previous

study and gain practical ex-

work experience includes;

perience. She volunteered

subtitle translator, docu-

in clubs throughout high-

mentary films, photograp-

school and later worked as

her, and music curator in his

an assistant and a waitress.

spare time! Satya's passion

She has a goal to become an

is composing music with his

architect and has an eye for

guitar and laptop. He enjoys

detail. Lara hopes to deepen

nothing more than taking in

and further develop her arti-

the beauty of Copenhagen

stic skills.

while enjoy coffee/tea and

lara@the-intl.com

cake at a local cafe.

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

Céline Martin-Pedersen - www.celinephotograph.com / info@celinephotograph.com

DISTRIBUTION

The International is available at a range of businesses, institutions, cafés and public libraries across Denmark

SUBSCRIPTIONS

For home or corporate delivery of the printed edition please contact: distribution@the-intl.com The International is published 12 times a year.

This issue was published on August 27, 2019

CVR:

39118181

3

WHAT’S HAPPENING

IN SEPTEMBER

THE HARVEST MOON FALLS ON THE 14TH, AND IN OLD ENGLAND, SEPTEMBER WAS CALLED HAERVEST-MONATH (HARVEST MONTH).

THIS IS THE TIME TO GATHER UP THE REST OF THE CROPS AND PREPARE FOR THE WINTER MONTHS AHEAD. THE INTERNATIONAL HAS HAND-PICKED YOU A VERITABLE GLUT OF FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVALS TO CELEBRATE THE END OF A GLORIOUS SUMMER, ALSO THE PICK-OF-THE CROP OF OTHER EVENTS ALL OVER THE KINGDOM. WE ALSO KICK SEPTEMBER OFF WITH OUR FIRST COLLABORATION PODCAST, COPING IN COPENHAGEN! YOU CAN FOLLOW THE GUYS ON FACEBOOK AND SPOTIFY WHERE THEY COVER VARIOUS TOPICS RELATING TO INTERNATIONAL LIFE IN DENMARK. ENJOY!

THE COPING IN CPH CREW FROM LEFT: MARIUS, WILL AND OWEN

TEXT HEATHER GARTSIDE

COPING IN COPENHAGEN

ED'S PICK!

COPING IN CPH PODCAST KULTURSHOT - AIRS 5 SEPTEMBER Kulturshot, a collaboration of bartenders and music lovers with their finger firmly on the pulse when it comes to cocktail mixology, bars and the nightlife of Copenhagen. They join us for a chat about their experiences, share stories and discuss their up and the coming event with Miss Melera - a Female Dj’s only night.. (23)

KATHY SIDDIQUI - AIRS 12 SEPTEMBER Kathy, our feature story and cover girl for September joins us in studio as we talk about her background and her journey to Denmark, and how her experiences are now helping other internationals in Denmark. An episode not to be missed!

HOUSE OF INTERNATIONAL THEATRE - AIRS 19 SEPTEMBER Jeremy Poulsen (Down the Rabbit Hole) and Vanessa Jönsson (Playmate Theatre Malmo) join us in the studio this week to talk about their up and coming play The Clean House. A moving comedic masterpiece about being marginalized as a foreigner. We dive into the creative collaborations between Malmø and Copenhagen's thriving theatre and art scene.

SANDY MACKENZIE - AIRS 26 SEPTEMBER The newly appointed head of Copenhagen International School joins us in studio.

This is a first for us having an educator on our show, and we're looking forward to hearing about his background and his take on education in Denmark.

TO LISTEN TO THE COPING IN COPENHAGEN PODCAST, VISIT THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE: THE CIC SHOW PODCAST OR SEARCH FOR THEM ON SPOTIFY

4

BELLEVUE

EMILIA THERESE AND BELLEVUE TEATRET

ODENSE

VISIT DENMARK-AALBORG ZOO

SPIS! UDE - ODENSE FOOD FESTIVAL

AALBORG

5 SEPTEMBER

9 – 14 SEPTEMBER 12 – 17 SEPTEMBER

DIVERSITY EVENING

EAT OUT 2019

The first annual diversity evening in 2019 at Aalborg Zoo. This free event is in collaboration with Aalborg Zoo, the Integration Council in Aalborg Municipality and International House North Denmark. International citizens and citizens with another ethnic background are warmly welcomed to this evening where you can meet different organizations and participate in exciting and informative activities.

An annual week of festivities celebrating Odense's excellent choice of culinary experiences. Restaurant Fynboen, Bryggeriet Flakhaven, Gringas, Druen & Bønnen, Restaurant Marie Louise, Restaurant MARV, Kok & Vin, Ristorante Capri, Anarkist - Beer & Food Lab and Restaurant Grand at First Hotel Grand Odense all open their doors to offer delicious menus at tasty prices!

BLAM! NO NORMAL 9-5 OFFICE EXPERIENCE! Blam! has been touring worldwide and now they're at Bellevue Teatret during September. Only six performances so don't miss out and book your tickets today!

To escape their tedious 9-to-5 jobs, four ingenious office workers invent BLAM! – an imaginary game where ordinary life is put through the shredder. In this hilarious and explosive show, the everyday workplace is transformed into a world populated by aliens, superheroes and classic blockbuster movie villains. With neck-breaking stunts, breathtaking physical feats, exhilarating parkour and heaps of attitude, BLAM! takes you on an extraordinary riotous adventure.

A wordless performance, it offers an imaginative, actionpacked and highly entertaining experience, taking physical theatre to new heights of innovation appealing to audiences worldwide.

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/ODENSE/SPISUDE-2019/200017481935318

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.BUSINESSAALBORG.NEMTILMELD. DK/297/

ED'S PICK!

EMILIA THERESE AND BELLEVUE TEATRET

ISTOCK

VISIT DENMARK-AALBORG ZOO

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.BELLEVUETEATRET.DK /EN/FORESTILLINGER/BLAM/

H i g h Acad em i c S t an d ar d s C h ri s t i an E t ho s C onv e n i en t l y l o c at ed i n H el l er u p

rygaards.com SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

5

ODENSE

ISTOCK

AALBORG

ISTOCK

SYDDANSK UNIVERSITET ALUMNE

ESBJERG

14 SEPTEMBER

14 SEPTEMBER

14 SEPTEMBER

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE FANTASY FESTIVAL

YOGA FOR EVERYONE

BREAKFAST IN THE STORY GARDEN

Discover the story behind the Esbjerg Fantasy Festival. Find out how it all began, and what makes this annual event so special for children and adults of all ages.

After the session, you are free to discover the festival on your own.

Saturday the 14. September 2019, 10.00-11.45 Esbjerg Byhistoriske Arkiv, Torvegade 47, 6100 Esbjerg

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/331428961080970/

With the theme of water and biodiversity in the oceans, you are invited to bring your yoga mat to the edge of the fjord at Musikkens Hus in Aalborg. YOGA HUSET will guide you through your yoga asanas to the accompaniment of flutist Charlotte Norholt and cellist Jonathan Slaatto. This arrangement if free.

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/AALBORG/ YOGA-FOR-ALLE/200017650055531

ED'S PICK!

There's no such thing as a free brunch? Get your teeth into a big breakfast provided by the best dairy products from Danish farms. There's milk, cheeses, yoghurts, and creams to whet your appetite. But first, there's yoga at 8:45 followed by (worryingly) some singing at 9:00. I'd suggest turning up at 9:10 for the feeding frenzy! The event at Eventyrhaven, Flakhaven/Klosterbakken, 5000 Odense ends at 10:15.

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/ODENSE/SPIS-X-OST-ANDKO-MORGENMAD-I-EVENTYRHAVEN/200017590466328

Speak Hellerup Bernstorffsvej 20C 2900 Hellerup Speak Lyngby Klampenborgvej 221 2800 Kgs. Lyngby

speakspeak.dk

Learning Danish is expanding your horizon

Speak Frederiksberg Lindevangs Allé 8-12 2000 Frederiksberg hello@speakspeak.dk +45 3946 3050

6

RUNGSTED

ESBJERG

UNSPLASH.COM

ISTOCK

MY BEAUTIFUL GALLERY

FREDENSBORG

14 SEPTEMBER

20 SEPTEMBER

20 SEPTEMBER

FREDENSBORG SLOTSMARKED/FARMERS MARKET

MY BEAUTIFUL GALLERY

CHAMPAGNE TASTING

‘My Beautiful Gallery’ is a delightful new exhibition and entertainment venue conveniently situated in an old waiting room on Rungsted Kyst station. After arriving by train, at 20:00 with a glass of Kir Royale in hand you can sit back and enjoy an evening with The Johannes Langkilde Jazz Band. Johannes Langkilde is also a wellknow journalist and TV presenter and returns to 'My Beautiful Gallery’ with bluesy singer, Eva Grove. Weather permitting, you’re most welcome to come along with something to grill on the barbecue too.

Will you savour the nuances of fine Champagnes from Reims, Bouzy and Èpernay like a true connoisseur and deposit the samples, or guzzle the lot inspired by evocative names like Boozy? At this event, you'll learn how to become a more discerning gourmand and become acquainted with the Champagne region.

For the seventh time from 10:00 – 15:00, the pretty town of Fredensborg comes alive with a lovely street market filled with delicious and beautiful homemade delights.

The attractions include; food stalls, ecological fruits, and berries, Danish wine, beer and fruit juices, jewelry, artists, pony riding, rabbit racing (?) cart rides, cakes, music, marching bands and heaps of old-fashioned atmosphere.

I'm tired already!

EVA GROVE

UNSPLASH.COM

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/2393171304342563

FOR MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FREDENSBORG.SLOTSMARKED

FREDENSBORG SLOTSMARKED FB PAGE

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.ALLEVENTS.IN/ESBJERG/CHAMPAGNESMAGNING-FREDAG-D-20-SEPTEMBER-2019/200017604996623

12 - 17 SEPTEMBER BELLEVUE TEATRET

WWW.BELLEVUETEATRET.DK

BLAM! ‘DIE HARD’ MEETS ‘THE OFFICE’

“REMARKABLE PHYSICAL PERFORMANCES... SET TO BE ONE OF THE TICKETS AT THIS YEAR’S FRINGE” EDINBURGH SPOTLIGHT

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

”A CROWD PLEASER… PHYSICAL SKILLS ARE SUPERB” THE GUARDIAN

NON VERBAL PARKOUR AND ACTION SHOW

7

ISTOCK

VEJERS

RAVFESTIVAL VEJERS FB PAGE

VALBY

UNSPLASH.COM

COPENHAGEN

21 SEPTEMBER

28 – 29 SEPTEMBER 27 – 29 SEPTEMBER

INTERNATIONAL CITIZENS DAY

TRADITIONAL JAPANESE THEATRE WORKSHOP

Greater Copenhagen's biggest event for internationals on housing, career and leisure life! A roof over your head, a good job, and a social network are prerequisites for an excellent start to a new life away from your familiar surroundings. But they are not always easy to come by. ICD has been arranged to make sure you get the best possible guidance in everything from your housing hunt, job search, childcare, and language classes to establishing a new network, jump-starting your social life and only getting to know your new home.

FREE OF CHARGE – DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP!

JOIN A SERIES OF NOH THEATRE WORKSHOPS this September, to introduce yourself to the world of Japanese Noh theatre, of unique formality and intricate flexibility. The teacher of the techniques is professional Noh actress Isa Takeda of Hōshō school. There will be three different themes – U T A I / Noh Chanting Workshop, M A I / Noh Dancing Workshop, N O H / Intensive One Day Workshop Seidokan Japan Center, Valby.

AMBER FESTIVAL A cultural celebration for adults and children of the beautiful world of amber. Much washes up on the west coast of Jutland, and through amber safaris on the beach, fashion shows, talks, puppet shows, and exhibitions from home and abroad you'll be able to see, smell, touch and hear all about 'Danish Gold.'

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/710661986001347/?TI=IA

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/308065189924137/

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ EVENTS/647587489015331/?TI=ICL

COME ALONG AND SAY HI! 5 DARLING DANISH VILLAGES

SUMMER EVENTS AROUND DENMARK

RETURN OF THE VIKINGS

AUGUST 2019 - THE-INTL.COM

BRAZILIAN HERALDO

FREE

PAPER

LIVING HIS DRAG DREAM IN COPENHAGEN

T he International will be at this event, so please come and visit us and receive a free paper.

AUGUST 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

RAVFESTIVAL VEJERS FB PAGE

ISSN 2596-5220

END OF SUMMER SWEET CORN

UNSPLASH.COM

international

the

It is never too late to fulfil a dream...

Do you have the makings of a writer? Of course you do! But you may need help with finding the right setting for your book, or with developing your characters. And the point of view – is it the best one?

Maybe you have the first draft written of your story but what now?

And where do you find an agent?

Or do you simply need to “just write” but want to improve how you put words onto the paper in a way that portrays your view of the world?

Through one-to-one tutoring or in my small writing groups I can help with any of the above.

I have worked with Faber and Faber and Cornerstones for the past four years and have completed my first book.

Getting it published is another matter….something else I can help with.

C O N TA C T M E O N : 5 0 4 0 9 1 9 4

EMAIL ME: brainlessstells@live.com

8

KATHY TAKES ACTIVE ACTION

BY FINDING HER BALANCE AND PURPOSE IN DENMARK

BORN IN POLAND, KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI HAS GARNERED A WEALTH OF MULTI-CULTURAL EXPERIENCES FROM LIVING IN TWO CONTINENTS, FOUR COUNTRIES, AND EIGHT CITIES. TODAY, KATHY IS REALISING HER DREAM, HELPING INTERNATIONALS MAKE A SMOOTHER TRANSITION TO LIFE ABROAD. IN THE PROCESS, SHE HAS CREATED ACTIVE ACTION, A CONSULTANCY FOCUSING ON PROVIDING TOOLS AND SOLUTIONS FOR A HASSLE-FREE TRANSITION, RELOCATION, AND RETENTION.

PHOTOGRAPHS CÉLINE MARTIN-PEDERSEN

K

KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI - a confessed global nomad and now a permanent resident in Denmark, is no stranger to crossing new frontiers. She has been doing it since she was eight years old — an only-child to progressive parents – mum, a lawyer, and dad, a rock band manager. Kathy’s childhood, as she knew it, was uprooted when her family left Poland as political refugees. Her family’s immigration to Germany came at the end of the Polish Marshall Law, a period that saw a significant immigration of Poles to the West.

In Germany, and later in the USA, her family faced the reality of integration: learning a new language, culture shock, and nostalgia for the life left behind.

To their credit, Kathy’s parents fostered in her an attitude of appreciation and openmindedness. “My parents instilled in me a deep appreciation for opportunities and the life we were able to create for ourselves. They were also always very open and welcoming to people of different backgrounds, and especially all my friends.”

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TEXT JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN

Indeed, there is something about Kathy’s personable character that feels intentional, as if she is a total sum of her multicultural upbringing, destined even, to be a cross-cultural ambassador, to bear with poise the privilege and burden of carving out life abroad.

NOSTALGIA FOR A LIFE LEFT BEHIND Kathy has first-hand experience with the power of nostalgia. Having lived in the USA for twelve years, she learnt to play the cards life dealt with her. “When I graduated from high school, I had this strong feeling that I didn’t want to live in the USA anymore. I was very grateful for the opportunity of living in the USA; it shaped me into who I am – a global citizen – and how I approach things. But I wanted to return to Poland and experience life as a re-pat.”

With conviction and clarity, Kathy decided to leave the USA and set off back to Po-

9

10

"REINVENTION IS A LOT ABOUT LOOKING INTO YOURSELF AND THINKING, WHAT CAN I DO FOR ME? AND MAKE SURE YOU FEEL COMPLETE BEFORE MAKING ANYONE ELSE FEEL THE SAME." land. She was thrown in the deep end of learning the intricacies of her mother tongue, while studying Cultural Studies, in Polish, at the university level. “I had to get a Polish-to-Polish dictionary, to be able to get through the language hurdle.” Ever open-minded and adaptable to change, she was able to navigate the challenges of being a re-pat and achieve success both in her professional and social life.

in her way, but she gave the job prospect a chance, got hired, and stayed on for two years. It turned out her profile as a native English speaker fit into what the employer was looking for, the rest she could learn on the job. Once she realised that she couldn’t change the reality of transitioning into Denmark, she adjusted her mindset, and more opportunities surfaced.

MINDSHIFT: EXPECTATION VS. REALITY

LIVING ABROAD IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR REINVENTION

Hearing Kathy’s story, I can’t help but think that reinvention is in her DNA. In 2008, while she was thriving in Poland, she met her Danish husband, and once again, life had other plans. She packed up her life in boxes and set off to Denmark, on another adventure.

“When I came to Denmark, I decided to study again because I was burnt out. I was working 60 hours a week in Poland. I needed to recharge and focus. So, I did a master’s degree in American Studies, in Odense at the University of Southern Denmark, while studying Danish in the evening.” Her experience while studying in Denmark was a major cultural shift from the more traditional education system in Poland, where the hierarchy between students and teachers is higher.

Moving to a new country has its flaws, many of which can shake up your identity. Like many foreigners moving to Denmark, Kathy had to contend with the massive challenge of redefining herself. The urgency of looking for a job soon turned into anger, frustration and confusion when she could not find anything that aligned with her ambitions. “It was me limiting myself. I know that now because I was not looking (for work) outside the box.” After a year of applying for various jobs, neither getting interviews nor rejection letters, Kathy decided to change tactic.

This shift in attitude led to a cascade of motivation that saw her network more, identify her strengths and open herself up to new possibilities. “I applied for a job in Esbjerg as a marketing specialist, which had nothing to do with my experience or anything I ever studied.”

See, Kathy acknowledges it would have been tempting to stand

Is reinvention a myth, cliché, or a fact of life? Kathy offers an insightful perspective to this question. “Reinvention is a lot about looking into yourself and thinking, what can I do for me? And make sure you feel complete before making anyone else feel the same.

You can also look at reinvention as a reawakening to (ask yourself) what skills, talents have I gained in my (life) journey that I can use for me?” The clarity you will gain from believing in yourself will allow you to maximise on your skillset and improve your wellbeing in your new host country.

Kathy’s conviction lies in viewing reinvention as a survival skill, which is handy in many facets of life, including career and personal development. The concept of reinventing oneself is about looking at the glass half full rather than half empty. It is about keeping an open mind and an optimistic attitude while settling abroad. Believing that you are in control of your future, even when faced with what may seem like insurmountable challenges.

“We often connect our identity with work. However, sometimes life gives us the chance to take the time do something we’ve always wanted to do (perhaps an unpursued passion). Life should not always be about chasing a job. Maybe (the period of uncertainty when you move abroad) is a huge signal for you to focus on something else. It important to see ourselves for who we are, what talents we have, what we can do with those talents, and what can make us happy.” She says.

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TAKE ACTIVE ACTION These days, rewriting her life script is not an unfamiliar concept

11

for Kathy. The multicultural challenges she has faced as an immigrant, a repat, and now an expatriate has brought a newfound purpose and balance into her life. She is garnering all her expertise and using it to help other Internationals, who find themselves in the whirlwind world of relocating, adjusting to life in a host country, and discovering their purpose while building a life abroad.

Kathy founded Active Action to help Internationals and their families adjust and understand their host country so that, they can have a thriving, active and fulfilling personal and professional life. Being an International herself, Kathy understands the challenges of international life and has the insight and tools to provide the needed solutions.

“We, as Internationals, need to find our path and purpose. We bring a lot of value and skills that we can offer. And so, it is a two-way street of raising awareness and making local people feel they can get to know us (foreigners), not just as people coming for work, but as people who have a lot to contribute into the society.” She adds.

Taking effective action when experiencing disillusionment from the challenges of relocating might seem like you are setting yourself up for further disappointment.

However, Kathy believes if you are aware of your situation, acknowledge it. Then you can move on and take active action. If you don’t do this, you might end up in the vicious cycle of one disappointment after another. A shift in your mindset can help you see the challenges of transitioning as an opportunity to grow, adapt and change.

“I do believe, even though it sounds like a cliché, everything we go through, even in the darkest time, is there to teach us something about ourselves. The process can be hard, especially where we feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel, but there is something in us that keeps us going and believing that we can.” She says with a confident smile.

Proactive action will help create a meaningful life for you abroad. Cast what may seem like improbable goals. Write them down. Take one step at a time to fulfilling that goal. Believe in yourself. Take risks. Live with gratitude. Last but not least, you’ll be fine. THE-INTL

LEGENDS IN THE MAKING

KATHY’S TOP TIPS FOR INTERNATIONALS WHO ARE FACING THE ENORMOUS TASK OF TRANSITIONING TO LIFE ABROAD:  Make a list of the things you don't want. Once you get that out of the way, you will be able to maximise your potential and focus on the goals you want to achieve.  Focus on networking to find like-minded people, who align with your values, who you admire, and work in your niche. These are people who can inspire and motivate you towards your goals.  Acknowledge and become aware of success as a process that takes time, more so when you relocate to a new country.  Be your own best friend and allow yourself to have a day off when nothing seems to work.  Ask for help; this can be hard when you don’t want to seem weak, incapable or vulnerable. Asking for guidance can make your life easier.  Last but not least, let go of your fear of failure.

For more info: www.activeaction.dk / www.linkedin.com/in/kathybsiddiqui/

and a business owner.

Celine received her diploma in Photography in 2005. Photography has never been a job, it is a lifestyle. Living as an expat in Denmark has allowed her to make one of her big dreams come true and start her own photography business. Celine specialises in portrait, fashion and lifestyle photography.

"My goal is to create a beautiful portrait that will be treasured for life."

ABOUT OUR PHOTOGRAPHER

CÉLINE MARTIN-PEDERSEN Celine was born and raised in the French part of Belgium. She has always been curious about life abroad and when the opportunity presented itself she jumped at the chance of living in Florence, Italy. However, the journey continued and love brought Celine to Denmark 3 years ago. She is a wife, mom to 3 fantastic children (1 of them a lovely bonus daughter)

www.celinephotograph.com info@celinephotograph.com @celine_portrait_photography https://www.facebook.com/ celinemphotograph/ www.linkedin.com/in/célinemartin-pedersen-60566458

As a parent you don’t just want a school with strong academics and exciting after school activities.

You want your child to be part of an inclusive and diverse international school community where your child learns lifelong skills of collaboration and communication.

CIS allows students to develop their sense of identity through the inquiry-based IB programmes so that they can aspire to be champions of a just and sustainable world.

For more information visit: www.cis.dk

12

LIVING WITH A GREAT DANE

PA R T 2

AS INTERNATIONAL COUPLES, OUR LIVES ARE FILLED WITH CULTURAL ABUNDANCE, MULTIPLE LANGUAGES, EXPERIENCING LIFE ABROAD, LOTS OF TRAVELING TO VISIT THE IN-LAWS AND FRIENDS, BUT WE ALSO HAVE OUR FAIR SHARE OF CHALLENGES. PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK.COM

I

TEXT KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI

IF YOU HAVE decided to live in Denmark because of love for your Great Dane you might find this topic particularly interesting.

WE ARE A MULTICULTURAL FAMILY Multicultural families juggle such issues as multiple languages, incorporating into their family life various traditions and celebrations, living abroad, having family all over the world, dealing with extensive travels, and much more.

As parents, we have to come to a consensus on how the kids will be raised. Although it may seem that after many long discussions all-important child raising matters have been put in place, you will get a surprise or two, especially when you decide to live in your spouses/partners country. Certain cultural aspects are unavoidable and become very prominent when you enter a given country. For some, it has been the fact that they find their kids engaged in "grown-up EQUALITY IN DENMARK IS NOT JUST GENDER-BASED; IT IS ALSO INCLUDdecision making" talks. EqualiED IN RAISING KIDS. KIDS ARE EQUAL, AND THEY ARE INVOLVED IN FAMty in Denmark is not just genderILY DECISIONS, THEIR OPINIONS MATTER, THEY ARE ASKED TO EXPRESS based; it is also included in raising THEIR FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS ON FAMILY MATTERS. TO MANY OF US, kids. Kids are equals, and they are involved in family decisions, their THIS IS A FOREIGH CONCEPT, AND WE CAN HAVE DIFFICULTIES UNDERopinions matter, they are asked to STANDING THIS NEED. express their feelings and thoughts on family matters. To many of us, this is a foreign concept, and we can have difficulties underat times, the most innocent differences can fuel conflict. The standing this need. sandwich. Yes, it has been the cause of many family feuds. NuOn the other hand, many internationals admire that responmerous individuals have concurred that a sandwich is made up sibility and independence are valued high in Danish life. Alof 2 pieces of bread, not 1. I am not trying to poke fun of anylowing kids to participate in all household activities and proone. The fact is that little things make up the bigger picture. jects is a part of family life. Kids are encouraged to learn by Yes, we may complain and feel nostalgic, but it is not because doing. It does not matter if the job is not done correctly; the we are unwilling to try new things or adapt. It is only because key is a willingness, participation, and effort. Once again, the we miss the way we used to do things. Living life as a multicultural difference may resurface because many spouses/partcultural couple requires continuous giving and taking. Someners grew up with a completely different approach. Such actimes, we need to step back and look through a different cultivities as cutting veggies, sawing, mowing the lawn and othtural lens. This means allowing the spouse/partner to make er various household projects including sharp objects, were their favourite Christmas dish, easing up on our traditions, seen as grown-up activities. We were told that adults could putting more energy into communicating, paying a bit more perform such tasks faster, better, and more efficiently. I have attention to manners, eating foods we are not crazy about. learned to see the benefits of such an approach. It most defiIt is a life made of big and small compromises. Living with a nitely takes a bit of letting go, and at times just shutting the Dane has its ups and downs. I conclude that many Danes are eyes tight when you see your little one strolling through the proud, stubborn, reliable, independent, do not overindulge in kitchen with a knife in hand. words, are family-oriented and very present. Life as a multicultural couple is a challenge, but it takes a specific type of SMØRREBRØD OR SANDWICH? person to take on these challenges, work through them, and In this broad cultural mix, we have to go on in our families; continue to grow and learn together. THE-INTL

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI FOUNDER, ACTIVE ACTION Kathy was born in Poznań, Poland and has lived in four countries and on two continents. Growing up as an immigrant and a cross cultural child she was able to discover a multicultural world that shaped her into the person she is today. As an adult she experienced life as a re-pat as well as an expat and she is not a stranger to the challenges and opportunities that life abroad offers.

Just when she least expected it, she met her Danish husband and once again packed her life in boxes and set off to live the happily-ever-after life in the land of the Vikings and Hygge.

Over the span of 10 years she has lived on Fyn, in Jylland and currently in Nordsjælland.

Kathy has a background in Cultural Studies and also a degree in American Studies. She has been able to combine her passion and profession as a Cultural Transition and Expat Spouse and Partner Specialist at Active Action.

A firm believer that if you are lacking something - create it. She is the founder of two International Mom Groups in Denmark, a running enthusiast, active lifestyle advocate, wife and mom. www.activeaction.dk kbs@activeaction.dk

13

DANISH BOTTLE

RETURN SYSTEM EFFECTIVE NATIONAL RECYCLING OF BEVERAGE CONTAINERS - PLASTIC, GLASS AND CANS.

PHOTOGRAPHS DANSKRETURSYSTEM - TY STANGE / ISTOCK.COM

TEXT MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES

I

IN DENMARK, BREWERIES, producers and importers may choose what type of bottles and cans to use for beverages. However, the law requires that a deposit be charged on bottles and cans containing certain kinds of drinks.

The Ministry of the Environment and Food has decided that a deposit must be charged on bottles and cans containing soft drinks, water, energy drinks, cider, iced tea and lemonade. In contrast, there is no deposit on packaging containing wine and beverages containing milk.

A Danish Parliamentary Bottle Return Bill was passed in 2000 and since 2002, Dansk Retursystem has had the exclusive right to operate the deposit and return system, which collects, counts, sorts and separates bottles and cans and sends them for recycling. The exclusive right also imposes a duty on Dansk Retursystem to always be efficient and to keep the costs as low as possible.

WHICH BOTTLES AND CANS? Deposits are refunded on empty bottles and cans that have the Danish deposit mark if the reverse vending machine can read the barcode, deposit mark and the shape of the packaging. If you return bottles and cans manually, the barcode, deposit mark and the shape must be visible.

The Danish deposit and return system is one of the few areas in which producers and importers pay for packaging to be recycled. Dansk Retursystem operates the system and is a non-profit company with three sources of income:

#1 Aluminium, glass, and plastic from returned bottles and cans are sold to companies that process the material and manufacture new packaging from it. Dansk Retursystem receives the income from the sale. #2 About 10% of all bottles and cans sold are not returned. These unclaimed deposits contribute to operating the deposit and return system and making it more efficient. The 2013 Finance Act required that Dansk Retursystem transfer some of the unclaimed deposits to the state budget over a period of five years. #3 Producers and importers of bottled and canned beverages pay an annual fee for marketing beverages on which deposits are payable. This is a political decision enacted by law. The prices vary for each

MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES PRESIDENT & CEO BOSS CERTIFICATION UK LIMITED type of bottle or can depending on the volume of the bottle or can and how easy it is to recycle the material.

The fees are calculated each year based on the expenditure of Dansk Retursystem versus the income. The fees are required to solely reflect the exact costs of operating and administering an efficient deposit and return system.

of taking back empty bottles and cans so they can be recycled, melted and turned into new bottles and cans. The smart thing about them is that you can deliver up to 90 bottles and cans at a time in a special deposit sack from Dansk Retursystem, and the deposits are transferred into your bank account. It takes less than a minute and you avoid sticky fingers. THE-INTL

Mariano has over 30 years' global experience as a business executive. He spent ten years with KPMG, twenty-one years with British Chambers of Commerce (while also running his own companies) and

WHERE DO I RETURN BOTTLES AND CANS WITH THE DANISH DEPOSIT MARK?

now BOSS Certification. He

Nearly 3000 stores throughout Denmark have reverse vending machines, where you can return all deposit-marked bottles and cans. You can also return bottles without a deposit mark that is part of the deposit and return system to locations that sell the same shape bottle.

Stores without reverse vending machines must take back deposit-marked bottles and cans of the same material that they sell, regardless of the product brand.

So if they sell cans, they must take back all the cans. If they sell plastic bottles, they must take all plastic bottles. The same applies to glass bottles.

Twelve towns or cities have a pantstation (deposit return bank) to which you can deliver a sack containing up to 90 bottles and cans. The pantstations are located in Aalborg, Randers, Lystrup, Horsens, Herning, Esbjerg, Odense, Kalundborg, Slagelse, Helsingør, Høje Taastrup and Køge.

A pantstation (deposit return bank) is a building designed for the sole purpose

up in Kent, went to boarding

is a British citizen, who grew school in Sussex and has a British university education.

He has been married to a Dane for over 42 years and has held over 100 official anti-Brexit speeches. He both speaks and writes Danish without difficulty.

NEARLY 3000 STORES THROUGHOUT DENMARK HAVE REVERSE VENDING MACHINES, WHERE YOU CAN RETURN ALL DEPOSIT-MARKED BOTTLES AND CANS. YOU CAN ALSO RETURN BOTTLES WITHOUT A DEPOSIT MARK THAT IS PART OF THE DEPOSIT AND RETURN SYSTEM TO LOCATIONS THAT SELL THE SAME SHAPE BOTTLE.

www.boss-register.com

14

EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO ROAM

IN SWEDEN PHOTOGRAPHS ERIN GUSTAFSON

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TEXT ERIN GUSTAFSON

15

ERIN GUSTAFSON WRITER & BLOGGER

SLIDE ACROSS THE Øresund Bridge or slip across the channel at Helsingør. There are so many reasons why you should explore Denmark’s Scandinavian sibling, Sweden. With autumn falling soon, it is a perfect time to plan a day out or weekend away to explore the southern section of this beautiful country. This is Skåne, and it's yours to roam.

One of the best things about visiting the Skåne region is access to nature. From the coast to the forests, there is something for everyone. Sweden has a law called Allemansrätten that gives the right of public access to everyone. The word itself translates to everyman's right. Also known as outdoor access or freedom to roam, it means that you can walk, hike, bike, ski, kayak, canoe or camp on any land in Sweden. The only exceptions to the rule being that you can’t tromp through someone’s private garden, across cultivated land or hang out near homes.

With 9.9 million people living in Sweden and 85% of them in urban areas – mostly Stockholm, Gothenberg and Malmö - it means there is a lot of land with nobody on it. That is a lot of space for all the moose. And farms. And trees.

And nature. A lot of nature. Don’t know where to start exploring? I can help.

Start in Skåne, the beautiful region at the tip of southern Sweden. Think rolling green hills, tall beech forests, farms full of brilliant yellow rapeseed come summer, old castles, rocky coastlines, little inlets and island archipelagos all await you in Skåne. From Copenhagen – you can drive across the Øresund Bridge to Malmö and head north or take the short twenty-minute ferry from Helsingør, Denmark to Helsingborg, Sweden. Then follow the E20 north in the direction of Gothenberg. Need a place to stay? Try super charming little Torekov or nearby Båstad, home of the Swedish

Open. But unless you're a huge Björn Borg fan or are really into tennis, steer clear of this place for two weeks in July every year. Otherwise, it is a charming little outpost to base your outdoor exploits.

About ten minutes outside Baståd heading east on route 115 is the gorgeous Naturreservat Osbecks. Officially you are now in Halland County, but right on the border of Skåne. If coming from the E20 motorway, take the exit towards Hasslöv. After two kilometers, there is a sign saying “Hiking area.” A forest of beech trees covers this open nature preserve. Autumn is a fantastic time to visit as the leaves are turning, coloring the landscape, and there is a crispness to the air.

The trees here at Osbecks are mostly deciduous with many beeches, birches, and old oaks, making it glow come autumn. Some of the trees that loom overhead are nearly two hundred years old.

History rocks at this nature reserve in the form of the stone age and bronze age “cairns” - piles of stones that farmers of yore used to mark their territory, allowing cultivation. See if you can find them. But remember, the general rule when accessing allmansrätt is “do not disturb – do not destroy.”

Look out for tree snails and songbirds, ferns and fungi. Sweden is proud of the diversity that has taken root here. Plan ahead and pack a picnic. There are several spots where you can make a fire in the pits available. Firewood is available free for your use. We grilled pølsers (hotdogs) and roasted marshmallows while soaking in the views. It was a perfect end to a perfect afternoon.

All of this loveliness is just over two hours from Copenhagen.

Cross the big bridge or take the ferry. Go for a hike. Pick lingonberries. Hunt mushrooms. You can. It’s allowed. It’s allemansrätten. Tack Sverige. Thanks Sweden. THE-INTL

ALLEMANSRÄTTEN GIVES THE RIGHT

OF PUBLIC ACCESS TO EVERYONE. EVEN YOU.

Erin is a travel writer and culture hound exploring a life across borders in Copenhagen, Denmark. She is the creator-in-chief at Oregon Girl Around the World, a blog that focuses on sustainable travel for the whole family.

With a background in graphic design, photography and art history, Erin has a creative way of seeing a destination and believes that travel choices can have positive impacts for both the traveller and the communities visited.

A local in Denmark since 2014, Erin has embraced the green city of Copenhagen and loves to share her insider tips. For more Scandinavian travel inspiration and Copenhagen cul-

FACTS ABOUT SWEDEN AREA: 450,295 square kilometers POPULATION: 9.9 million DENSITY: 21 people/square kilometer

ture, follow Erin around the world here: oregongirl aroundtheworld.com @oregongirl_ aroundtheworld @oregongirlworld www.facebook. com/oregongirl roundtheworld/ www.pinterest.dk/ oregongirlworld/

16

COFFEE = JOB POSSIBILITIES! Coffee meetings are a great way to meet new people, expand your network, and get your 'foot in the door' on the job market. Danes are generally good at networking and coffee meetings. Let me tell you why and how you should do the same.

VISITDENMARK PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ROBIN SKJOLDBORG; ROBIN SKJOLDBORG; KIM WYON; NICLAS JESSEN

PHOTOGRAPHS VISIT DENMARK/ISTOCK.COM

E

TEXT

GREETE ELURI

EVEN THOUGH DANES might be more reserved, they do like to network and expand their business circles.

Many jobs come about through networks – I heard about my first job through a friend at Lær Dansk (the Danish language school).

"Getting a solid education is one thing, but who you know (and who knows you) is often the difference between finishing first and second." (Charlotte Junge) Job searching as an expat without knowing the language or having an extensive network can be quite challenging. Exceptions and many 'unwritten rules' are part of the puzzle in the Danish job market.

You can tackle this process in many ways, and there is no 'one size fits all' recipe, yet arranging coffee meetings strategically can be quite useful. Let me tell you why and how you can do it.

WHY WE DO IT

I had my first coffee meeting about three years ago. I was introduced to someone through an outplacement program I was part of. We met at a cafe in Aarhus, and we had a great, informal discussion about both professional and personal life. I remember thinking after that day that "I need to meet more people, and that is the way to do it." Now I understood what 'everyone' was talking about – coffee meetings are the way to go in Denmark if you want to grow your network.

Since then, I have had numerous inspiring meetings with all kinds of people of different ages, cultures, and industries. I have learned how small Denmark is – that everyone is linked somehow, and it is easy to get in contact with people.

HOW IT WORKS

The easiest way to do this is to make a

GREETE ELURI JOB CONSULTANT Greete was born in Tallinn, Estonia and has lived in four countries and on four continents. After high school exchange year in the US, list of companies or people you would like to get in contact with. If you cannot find their e-mail addresses online, reach out to them via Linkedin. Most professionals are on Linkedin where you can send them a message.

When reaching out to people, always remember to state who you are, what is your background, and the reason why you are writing to them. In that way, you have a good start, and it is clear to the receiver why you write to them and what they can expect. For example: "Hey Andreas. My name is Greete, and I see that you are working as a job consultant at a Jobcenter. I am interested in a similar position and would like to know more about it. Would you be interested in a coffee meeting? I am flexible regarding the time.

I am looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you. Kind regards, Greete".

If a person does not reply to you, also after your follow up, do not take it personally. There can be many different rea-

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

sons why a person is not answering. If you have not heard back from them after your third attempt, move on to the next person on your list, and do not give up.

Generally, people are friendly, they reply to their messages and want to help others – I have gotten so much inspiration and new ideas from all of these coffee meetings. Once you have met someone face-to-face, they are more likely to open their network to you, and you are no longer 'another CV in their inbox.'

The important part is to take action, to follow up and be consistent – then you will be successful! THE-INTL

Greete caught a ‘travel bug’.

Since 2010, Denmark has become her second home. Her background is within international marketing.

Greete changed her career to work with her passion - to help international job seekers in Denmark. For the last two years, she has been actively creating content in Linkedin and organising different events for job seekers. Greete believes that with the right mindset, skills and tools you can be suc-

IF A PERSON DOES NOT REPLY TO YOU, ALWAYS AFTER YOUR FOLLOW UP, DO NOT TAKE IT PERSONALLY. THERE CAN BE MANY DIFFERENT REASONS WHY A PERSON IS NOT ANSWEING.

cessful in the rigid Danish job market. www.linkedin.com/in/ greeteeluri/ greete.eluri@gmail.com

17

AARHUS CITY WELCOME 2019 PHOTOGRAPHS PER RYOLF, CITY OF AARHUS / VISIT DENMARK / DOKK1

TEXT KIRSTEN VESTERGAARD LAURIDSEN, CITY OF AARHUS

WHEN: Friday, September 27 from 15:30 to 18:00 WHERE: Dokk1 WHO IS INVITED: All internationals living in Aarhus – students, professionals, accompanying partners and children

O

ONCE AGAIN THIS September the City of Aarhus invites all internationals living in Aarhus to the annual event Aarhus City Welcome.

In short, the Aarhus City Welcome is a cocktail of inspiration on how to make the most of your city!

THIS YEAR'S EVENT

Whether you're completely new in town or have lived in the city for years, the Aarhus City Welcome is all about being inspired and getting yourself involved.

The City of Aarhus invites you to spend an afternoon in the beautiful surroundings of Dokk1. Enjoy good food while connecting with a wide range of sports and leisure clubs, network organisations, volunteering opportunities, job facilitators, culture houses, and more.

We have something for everyone.

The Aarhus City Welcome is one big act of co-creation involving around 40 different actors who each contribute in various ways to the unique vibe this afternoon of September 27 from 15.30 to 18.00.

Grab a plate of delicious food and take a walk around the fair 'the Information Bazar.' Here, you are inspired to join a club or a community, figure out how to improve your Danish skills, know where

COST: The event is free of charge to head for your next cultural experience, or you can meet a job facilitator who will guide you through the Danish labor market – and much more.

Or why not get physical while getting familiar with the techniques of lacrosse, quidditch, kin-ball or tango at the Experience Space?

Or if you're feeling creative - join the workshop at Creative Space.

Children of all ages are invited to explore a universe of games and stories from the inside of old suitcases – provided by international students of pedagogy – and to explore the fantastic Children's Library of Dokk1.

And to give us a laugh we have invited one of the best Danish comedians, Simon Talbot, who will be performing in English. Simon has toured the US and is a real genius at dissecting Danish culture and the Danish way of life.

Also, as the afternoon turns to evening, you are invited to join an interactive tour around town solving clues about some of the iconic places in Aarhus.

A WARM WELCOME TO AARHUS Seventy-six different nationalities joined the Aarhus City Welcome in 2018. The event is therefore also an opportunity for Mayor of Culture and Citizen Servic-

es, Mr. Rabih Azad-Ahmad, to acknowledge, on behalf of the city, the increasing number of expats and students coming to Aarhus from around the globe.

This is a chance to welcome the many newcomers who have chosen Aarhus as their new home.

The event celebrates and is an acknowledgment of the diversity, knowledge, and skills on all levels that internationals in Aarhus bring along enriching the city and its communities.

As Aarhus becomes home to more internationals, the city and collaborative partners must facilitate a variety of ways in which you can find social networks and friends, explore the diverse opportunities that the city has to offer and help you settle in. Evaluations each year have shown that the Aarhus City Welcome is considered highly relevant in doing precisely that by internationals attending the event.

The Aarhus City Welcome is, however, but one of many outcomes from the City's International Strategy for Growth in Aarhus involving several actors from both the public and private sectors and civil society. And, in the years to come, Aarhus will be focusing even more on boosting the attraction, reception, and retention of internationals. THE-INTL

FIND INFORMATION ON THIS YEAR'S AARHUS CITY WELCOME, AND SIGN UP FOR THE EVENT AT: www.newcitizen.dk/acw Aarhus City Welcome #aarhuscitywelcome

VISITDENMARK: KIM WYON

18

WHY IT IS OK TO FAIL WHEN YOU MOVE ABROAD

DO YOU EMBRACE FAILURE AS A FACT OF LIFE, LEARN FROM IT, AND GROW? OR DOES FAILURE FILL YOU WITH FEAR, SHAME, AND REGRET? HOW DO YOU RESPOND TO THE CLASH BETWEEN THE REALITY OF LIFE ABROAD AND YOUR EXPECTATIONS? DID YOU KNOW FAILURE IS A GIFT? PHOTOGRAPHS JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN / ISTOCK PHOTO

TEXT JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN

O

OF ALL THE emotional setbacks we face in life, failure perhaps ranks highest. Failure is a unifying human condition. How you respond to failure is what dictates the direction of your life.

Moving abroad, whether as an immigrant or expat, comes with its own set of expectations, many of which may not work out the way we hope and expect. Settling into a new country, may present a unique set of challenges that you could probably navigate with ease in your home country.

When you make a drastic move like moving abroad, the risk of failure may come in different situations. Many people find themselves not adjusting well to the clash between reality and expectations. The initial inability to find a job that aligns with your ambitions, or provide for your family an idealistic failure, can turn into disillusionment, anger, and overwhelming feeling of failure.

JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN JOURNALIST, WRITER, PHOTOGRAPHER

LIFE’S DETOURS DO NOT EQUATE TO FAILURE Six years ago, Ioana Opris, founder of It’s OK to fail, stepped out of her comfort zone in Romania. Her conviction to leave Romania came after a business venture went sour and a failed ambition to pursue her music career.

The ambitious ideal of relocating to Denmark took a dramatic twist. And it seemed for some time that her life was turning into a game of survival: from playing poker games, sleeping on a friend’s couch, to doing cleaning jobs. In hindsight, with the pressure to survive, she failed to recognise that she was competent enough to pursue an engineering job, with the degree she had earned from Romania.

Like Ioana, many Internationals often short change themselves into believing they are not good enough to pursue the life they want. People feel trapped inside the mindset of failure, preventing them from pushing further beyond the bumpy road of transitioning into life abroad.

Many times when we move abroad, we seek out people who are from our home countries as sources of shared experiences.

However, as Ioana discovered, the circle of familiarity can turn toxic. When all people do is share their failures, complain about their new host country. Venting frustrations happen without offering real motivation or insight into how one can maximise the benefits of living abroad. As a result, Internationals can end up wading through life with a victim mentality.

Judy is a journalist and writer, fuelled by a passion for bringing words to life.

She has also been a photographer for 11 years.

Her hunger for knowledge first led

SIX YEARS AGO, IOANA OPRIS, FOUNDER

her to Denmark on a scholarship for

OF IT'S OK TO FAIL, STEPPED OUT OF

an MA in Journalism at Aarhus Univer-

HER COMFORT XONE IN ROMANIA.

FAILURE IS A GIFT

achieving their goals.

Ioana believes regretting failure and blaming yourself, or others will hinder you for taking active action. Whatever failure you encounter in your life abroad, use it as a chance to reinvent yourself, and recognise that success is often the total sum of multiple failures.

Failing to realise your initial goals when you move abroad is not a failure. When your life takes a detour, thus filling you with uncertainty is not a failure. It is perfectly OK to realise that you might need to change course or adjust expectations. Life abroad is an opportunity to try different options, to test your tenacity, and to learn that you are stronger than you think. So choose to be kinder to yourself, over time, you might see failure as a gift in disguise. THE-INTL

Despite her dance with failure, Ioana has reunited with her passion for music. She also set up a coaching initiative, It’s OK to fail, for Internationals in need of motivation and skills towards

You can find Ioana Opris on LinkedIn or Facebook *It’s OK to Fail*

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

sity. Love made her stay. She is now a mother of two Afro-Viking boys.

Judy is currently working as a freelance journalist and photographer and is always interested in a challenge. Reach out on judysimon2002@ yahoo.com

www.judywanderi.net

19

ROAD TRIP / WEEKEND AWAY

A WHIRLWIND TRIP TO WINDSOR

THINGS TO DO Windsor’s number one attraction is, of course, the Castle, and no points for guessing why. Walking through the grounds of Windsor Castle alone, you can't help but peer into the windows and think you're catching a glimpse of the ghost of a King or Queen. Some visitors don’t get much further than the Castle, but there’s enough in Windsor to fill a day’s sightseeing, and enough nearby to make a weekend or several days worthwhile.

A little further afield is Stone Henge, another one to tick off the bucket list. This great and ancient stone circle is unique; exceptional survival from a prehistoric culture now lost to us.

The monument evolved between the later Neolithic (c3,000 BC) and the middle of the Bronze Age (c1,6000 BC) and is aligned with the rising and setting of the sun at the solstices, but its exact purpose remains a mystery.

Facing each other across the Thames, with the massive bulk of Windsor Castle looming above, the twin riverside towns of Windsor and Eton have a rather surreal atmosphere. It is most well-known for its famous public school, Eton College. The High Street is a must for antique shoppers. The finely preserved shop fronts include a half-timbered building believed to date from 1420.

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME WITH CITYBASE APARTMENTS

GREETED BY MY friendly contact Angela at Berkshire Rooms' Royal Winchester House, Bracknell - I felt very comfortable with the 'Scandi looking' building and its unique design and architecture. Royal Winchester House creates a striking and impressive presence from the ground floor up to the luxury penthouse level. Once shown inside, we were blown away by this sleek modern apartment with every amenity you could ever need. The generous space of the apartment which has a master bedroom with an en suite, a second large bedroom and across from it a wet room to die for!

Moving into the common area, we loved the open plan kitchen, dining room and lounge area - great for entertaining.

Downstairs in the lobby area there is a meeting room and waiting area - perfect for meetings if you don't want to go too far, and close to a local food chain across the road and to the right a large shopping mall. I felt quite at home here with its panoramic view of the city, beautifully decorated from top to toe, it reminded me of the newly built high-end luxury apartments in Nordhavn, Copenhagen. So I felt right at home!

HOW DO YOU BOOK THESE APARTMENTS? Citybase Apartments are specialists in booking serviced apartments in hundreds of cities around the world. What's unique about their service is that they offer the convenience of hotel-like services with the added space, privacy, and flexibility of a kitchen and living area.

A bonus is that their apartments are great value compared with hotels and, if you’re staying for a while or sharing with friends or children, the savings can be significant.

Wherever you want to stay, their friendly and knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect place.

If you're on the go, their simple reservation process and friendly customer service makes booking super simple.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: WWW.CITYBASEAPARTMENTS.COM / TEL: +44 020 8090 8080

ATTRACTIONS:  Windsor Castle www.royalcollection.org.uk  London Kayak Tours www.londonkayaktours.co.uk/sales  St. George's Chapel www.stgeorges-windsor.org RESTAURANTS AND CAFES:  Two Brewers www.twobrewerswindsor.co.uk  The George www.georgeinn-eton.co.uk  Bills www.bills-website.co.uk SHOPPING:  Eton fudge shop 113 High St, Eton, Windsor SL4 6AN  Windsor Royal Shopping Arch 5 Goswell Hill, Windsor SL4 1RH

20

LOOKING BACKWARD

TO REFRESH YOUR LOVE FOR APPLES The apple is the old, average standby that has been accompanying everyday lunch packets and institutional cafeteria meals since the beginning of time. But perhaps a closer look at their history and a wide variety of flavor can spark a new flame.

I

PHOTOGRAPHS GINA LORUBBIO / VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

IF I HAD

to guess, I bet that we modern eaters encounter and consume the same two or three types of apple year after year. Though it sounds counterintuitive, I propose that the best way to renew our excitement for apples is to get our hands (and our minds) onto the history and ancient varieties.

THE APPLE’S LONG HISTORY IN DENMARK To claim that apples have been with us since the beginning of time is not an exaggeration. On Bornholm evidence of prehistoric human’s taste for sour, wild apples were found in two different Stone Age settlements. In the Middle Ages, Danish farmers began taking care to cultivate larger and sweeter varieties of apples. So prestigious were these fruits that the law of Jutland, and eventually all of Denmark, regarded the apples outside on the trees as equally valuable as the treasured belongings located inside the farmer’s house in cases of burglary.

Later in Danish history, and especially on the island of Fyn, a royal order required every garden to have one apple and pear tree. The fruit plucked from those trees was to be delivered directly to the royal court.

VARIETY WORTH PRESERVING A global organization called Slow Food has created a program called the ‘Ark of Taste.’ Akin to Noah’s Ark in the Bible, the goal of this initiative is to save diverse species from going extinct. In Slow Food’s case, they load up fruits, vegetables, animal breeds, cheeses, breads, sweets, and cured meats onto this intangible ark so that we can enjoy the flavors and traditions long into the future.

When I moved to Denmark, I had the clever idea to check out the foods deemed save-worthy here. Can you guess what’s on Denmark’s Ark? Yes, that’s right – apples! Fifteen varieties

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TEXT GINA LORUBBIO

of them, to be exact. They carry names like Nonnetit Bastard Apple, Dronning Louise Apple, Filippa Apple, and Bøghs Citronæble (lemon apple). Their flavor descriptions carry phrases like “slightly spicy,” “suitable, fresh acidity,” “sweet and subtle,” “slightly strawberry aftertaste,” “intensely flavored,” and “acidic notes.” I share this, not to get all ‘wine snob’ on you, but to show how delighted your taste buds could be with one of these old-timey varieties.

THREE WAYS TO REFRESH YOUR LOVE FOR APPLES: #1

Head to the nearest park or forest. Bonus points if you climb the tree to claim your fruit. The variety may not be guaranteed ancient, but the nostalgic rush you’ll get from feeling like a kid is sure to reinvigorate your appreciation. #2 Make a Danish classic that dates back to the 1700s: æblekage (apple cake). If you bel i e ve c a ke m u s t h ave s o f t , fluffy layers and frosting, you’ll need to put that expectation away. This cake has three simple components: apples stewed with vanilla and sugar, crunchy butter-roasted breadcrumbs (toast them yourself or pick up a pack of æblekagerasp at the supermarket), and fresh whipped cream. #3 Visit an orchard. Pometet at University of Copenhagen’s Taastrup campus grows 750 varieties of apples. They’re holding an open house on 29 September (www.pometet.dk). Outside of Randers is Det Grønne Museum (The Green Museum), where you can find exhibitions on Danish cookery, as well as events that feature some of the 264 Danish apple varieties growing in their orchard (www.detgroennemuseum. dk). THE-INTL Source: www.fondazioneslowfood.com Æbler i det danske køkken by Else-Marie Boyhus

GINA LORUBBIO ARTIST & WRITER Gina is a food illustrator and storyteller in Copenhagen. Upon arrival from the U.S., she made an art series called ‘How to Fall in Love with Denmark through Food in 100 Days.’ She’s now creating art in 2019 that inspires us on the adventure of everyday home-cooking. To buy artwork, commission an illustrated recipe, or follow her series, visit: www. HeirloomFood Project.com @heirloomfoodproject

21

GROWING AN INTERNATIONAL

COMMUNITY TOGETHER Copenhagen International School opened its doors to a new school year for the 57th year running on 14th August 2019.

PHOTOGRAPH COPENHAGEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

T

THOSE DOORS HAVE changed location many times over those years, with the school now enjoying purposebuilt facilities in Nordhavn that have won many an architectural award.

The campus at Nordhavn was made possible through the generosity of the A.P. Møller fund who recognized the need for a larger international school of high caliber in greater Copenhagen, according to fund director Henrik Tvarnø. Support from influential figures and businesses in Copenhagen has been a theme for CIS over the years, for example, from Mariann Boel, Nils Foss, and Steen Raborg. Princess Benedikte has attended openings of buildings for the school on five occasions now.

Some would say that CIS is a jewel in the crown of Copenhagen - one of the founding schools of the Interna-

TEXT

SANDY MACKENZIE - COPENHAGEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

tional Baccalaureate that provides high quality education to a diverse, international community.

ATTRACTING INTERNATIONAL FAMILIES A school like CIS is vital for international businesses and organisations to be able to attract the best talent to Copenhagen. It is also ideal for Danish families who are returning to their homeland after years of working in other countries, with their children attending schools around the world. For the (many) families who have chosen CIS who are Danish, the school represents a fantastic combination of an international community, and an IB curriculum taught in English coupled with classes in Danish language and the celebration of the traditions and culture of Denmark.

Students throughout the school learn the Danish language - with appropriate classes for each stage at each grade level, from beginners to native speakers. Many students acquire the language to a high degree of proficiency, while others are studying language and literature in Danish. Danish families know that their children can graduate from CIS with a global outlook, intercultural competence and an appreciation of this unique country along with a qualification in the IB Diploma that can be the entry ticket to the very best universities around the world. For the students, enjoying the truck ride around the streets of Copenhagen wearing their studenterhue alongside friends from every corner of the globe is the culmination of a fabulous education. THE-INTL

22

GETTIN’ FIGGY WITH IT As early autumn arrives, it’s time for the fig harvest. Nutrient-rich figs are wonderfully versatile in dishes and one of the oldest fruits consumed by humans, so you could say we share a bit of history. These seedy, not-too-sweet fruits are grown in dry, warm climates and simply ooze the feeling of the sun’s last warm rays of the year. The window for fresh figs is short in Denmark, so grab them while you can!

PHOTOGRAPHS ERIN CHAPMAN, ANDREAS WIKING

TEXT ERIN CHAPMAN, THE AMERICAN PIE COMPANY

THIS SWEET & SAVORY MEDITERRANEAN SALAD SHOWCASES SEPTEMBER’S FRESH FIGS FROM THE

RECIPES THE PIE SHOP COOKBOOK

SAMIC NOTES – A WONDERFUL BLEND OF FLAVORS FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES “SALAD FOR DIN-

FIG & TOASTED HONEY WALNUT SALAD

NER” AS I DO!

MAKES 4 SERVINGS / 1 LARGE SALAD

MARKET. CRUNCHY TOASTED HONEY-COATED WALNUTS COMPLEMENT JUICY FIGS WITH TANGY BAL-

INGREDIENTS 7-8 fresh figs 75 g walnuts 1 tablespoon honey 350 g mixed greens like Arugula and Spinach ½ red onion, thinly sliced 60 g Pecorino Romano cheese, grated to large flakes

DRESSING 3 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar salt & pepper to taste

METHOD #1 Gently rinse and dry the figs. Slice into thin wedges. Set aside. #2 Toast the walnuts in a skillet at medium, occasionally tossing until starting to turn a deeper golden brown (about 5-7 min). Toss with tablespoon honey and sprinkle with flake salt. Set aside to cool. #3 In a large bowl, toss together the figs, greens, and onion. Grate the cheese into large, thin flakes (a potato peeler works great for this!) #4 In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing and drizzle over the salad mixture, tossing gently to coat. #5 Serve onto individual plates, or on one large platter. Top with the toasted honey-coated walnuts and a dash of salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately and enjoy.

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

23

using a pastry blender (or a fork, or pulse in a food processor) begin to cut the butter into the flour mixture until smaller pea-sized chunks form. Do not overcut the butter – you’ll want a few larger walnut-sized pieces in the dough to make a nice texture. #4 Drizzle in half the cold water and, using a rubber spatula, begin to bring the dough together by pressing it against the side of the bowl. #5 Add the rest of the cold water, and continue to press until you’ve started to incorporate the dough.

Use your hands to finish bringing the dough together into a ball, being careful, not over-handle the dough so that the butter chunks won’t melt in the warmth of your hands. #6 Wrap the dough ball with plastic wrap, and then gently flatten into a disk shape about 2.5 cm thick. #7 Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour (and up to 3 days), until you are ready to assemble the galette.

FILLING & ASSEMBLING

FIG & ROSEMARY MAPLE GALETTE MAKES 10-12 SERVINGS THIS GORGEOUS AUTUMN GALETTE IS A SHOWSTOPPER FOR WEEKEND BRUNCHES OR EVEN AS A COMPLEMENT TO ROASTED MEAT DISHES – A REAL TREAT FOR FIG-LOVERS. TIP: THE DOUGH FOR THE CRUST CAN BE PREPARED A DAY OR TWO IN ADVANCE FOR AN EASY PREP WHEN YOU’RE READY TO ASSEMBLE THE GALETTE.

CRUST 225g butter, very cold 300 g flour 1 tablespoon sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 dl water, cold

FILLING 225 g mascarpone 150 g cream cheese 1 dl maple syrup 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped 1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg 1 tablespoon cognac or brandy 10-12 fresh figs, sliced

TOPPING 3 tablespoons maple syrup Egg wash for brushing crust Raw sugar Fresh rosemary

CRUST

#1 Begin by cutting the cold butter into cubes, then placing it back in the refrigerator. It’s essential the butter remains as cold to ensure a flaky crust. #2 In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. #3 Place cold butter cubes into the flour mixture and,

#1 In a mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone, cream cheese, and maple syrup until smooth. Add the chopped rosemary, cinnamon, nutmeg and cognac, and mix until combined. Set aside and keep chilled. #2 Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 175 C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. #3 Shape the prepared chilled dough disk into a rectangle shape. Flour a clean surface and roll out the prepared dough into a large rectangle, about a 1/2 cm thick and place on the prepared baking tray. #4 Spread the spiced mascarpone filling onto the dough leaving 6-7 cm of dough around the edges for folding over. #5 Line the filling with sliced fresh figs and fold over the edges of the pie dough, long sides first, then the ends, and pinch slightly in the corners.

TOP & BAKE

#1 Drizzle maple syrup over the figs. Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with raw sugar. Garnish with rosemary sprigs. #2 Bake for 45-50 minutes on a baking tray or until cream filling is set and the crust is golden brown. #3 Allow cooling at least an hour before serving.

ERIN CHAPMAN CO-OWNER, THE AMERICAN PIE COMPANY With over 20 years’ experience in the advertising industry, working both in Denmark and USA, Erin has specialised in brand building and image development for lifestyle, food and fashion clientele at both national and international level.

Erin attended DIS, Denmark’s Study Abroad programme in 1996 and made a connection with Copenhagen. She moved to Denmark permanently in 1998 with two suitcases and a pocketful of change. Working in the advertising industry she worked her way up as a senior creative, as well as a voiceover artist, and then began her own brand and design business in 2006.

Merging her love for food and art direction, she began food styling and cookbook design for other authors, and then proceeded to continue with recipe development, publishing two cookbooks in Denmark. While living in Los Angeles, Erin worked with several US brands on image and recipe development and upon returning to Denmark, she partnered with Dorte Prip in 2015 to introduce The American Pie Company in Copenhagen.

Erin is happily married to her Danish husband and is the mother of a sassy seven year old daughter who speaks fluent “Danglish”. www.theamericanpieco.com

24

HEATHER GARTSIDE STORYTELLER AND

NICLAS JESSEN

AMBER GAMBLER A CAUTIONARY TALE OF THE QUEST FOR DANISH GOLD

TOUR GUIDE Heather is a successful storyteller, she’s also a tour guide, event organiser, photographer and mother of three. All these

PHOTOGRAPHS SASHA KNUDSEN / VISITDENMARK

TEXT HEATHER GARTSIDE

ingredients are carefully blended together, with a pinch of sea salt, to create her unique take on life in Denmark and around the world. You’ll find more vivid descriptions and bittersweet adventures in her

T

THE WINDSWEPT ISLAND

of Fanø, on the west coast of Denmark. A lazy Saturday afternoon in bright sunlight, my children and I stumble upon the high tide line. Strangely, there were other people of all ages absorbed in gazing down, bent double and stirring the ragged border of flotsam and jetsam with small sticks. I asked what they were doing, and a windswept lady opened her clenched hand to expose three small pieces of amber.

BOTTOMS UP Rav, she exclaimed, with a crazed glint in her eyes. Then went back to her vulnerable position and agitating stirring. To me, røv conjured up another meaning (buttocks in Danish), but perhaps that is because I still laugh my head off at names like Middlefart (a town on the island of Fyn) or fart monster (fast car) or fuld fart (top speed) after all these years of living here.

BINGO We began ourselves with a bit of half-hearted stick twisting in the seaweed, crab shells, and broken fishing net. Within five minutes, 'bingo,' and I had found a tiny grain of amber clinging gingerly to some crispy seaweed. I gasped and searched on. I've never been lucky with lotteries, tombolas, raffles or games of chance. Ha, he winds of fortune had begun to blow!

GOLDFEVER That weekend on Fanø blew me away, and

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

novels, ‘Rice Pudding In A Duvet’ and ‘Middle Disfive small nuggets later, I began to feel that I was a patron to a charmed existence. Lady luck was in town, and for her, I changed so much in the one frantic hour.

I was ready to forsake my home and loving family, throw my keys, clothes, commitments, and phone into the foaming ocean and try my feverish hand at fossicking for just one more stone. All this and attired in macraméd marram grass and living in a driftwood hut. The gulls cried the sea roared, and my old life faded into the greedy orange glow of the sun setting on the horizon.

Kun en mere (just one more) I pretended to joke with amber-less losers, as I drooled and cast them a crazed look.

MOTHERLESS CHILDREN I went back the next day, initially feeling more than a little ashamed at my faithlessness to nearest and dearest. Within a few minutes, I'd gotten a gold fever again and was three darling nuggets up on the previous day's haul. I dragged myself away to satisfy the hungry, anxious faces of my children and sneaked back later.

FOSSICKING FRENZY The best places in Denmark for amber fossicking are along the west and north coast of Jutland. (Check out the event listings for the amber festival in Vejers at the end of September).

Your chances are best in the autumn,

spring, and wintertime after a storm for the amber to loosen from the sea bed and turn up onto the beach at low tide.

tance’ which are available on Amazon. This summer Heather’s Time Travelling

TREASURE TROVE

tours of Copenhagen and

If you are fortunate enough to find some, it's easy to distinguish from stone; amber feels warm to the skin, and if you tap it against your teeth, it sounds hollow. You can also burn amber to emit a red sooty flame; it's called "burning stone" in Swedish, Dutch, and German. Amber also becomes electric if you rub it, and the word "electric" actually comes from the Greek word for amber: electron! A sure way to tell whether it's the real deal is to place it in a glass of water with two spoons of salt, stir and see if it floats - amber will float to the surface, while a stone will remain on the bottom.

Helsingør have become a

DANISH GOLD Amber is fossil resin, produced by different conifers about 30 - 90 million years ago. We know that Neolithic Scandinavians exchanged it for goods from Egypt, Italy, and Greece. Later, the Romans also knew that burning amber produces an aromatic smell, used it as incense, carved it, and believed that it held magical powers.

I tend to agree!

You'll find an extended version of this story in Heather Gartside's first novel, 'Rice Pudding in a Duvet.' Available on Amazon. THE-INTL

sensation with travellers from around the world.

More details on her website and at Airbnb Experiences. @timetravellingin copenhagen @gartsideheather @timetravellingin copenhagen Amazon: @heather-gartside/ LinkedIn: @heather-gartside Airbnb Experiences: @timetravellingin copenhagen and @time travellinginhelsingør

25

HIT THE GROUND RUNNING PREPARE TO MAKE THE MOST OF AN INTERNATIONAL MOVE WITH SOME MINDSET SHIFTS PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK / LINDSEY SCAIFE / CATRIONA TURNER

TEXT CATRIONA TURNER

T

#2

#1

CATRIONA TURNER WRITER AND BLOGGER Catriona is a writer and blogger NICLAS JESSEN

THIS TIME LAST year, I was a new arrival in Esbjerg, and I was determined to hit the ground running.

Mind you, in some ways, settling in here was a little easier than with our previous moves.

My Scottish roots meant that much was familiar to me: the climate, the infrastructure, even some elements of Danish culture felt comfortable. (Not that I didn't encounter some surprising Danish quirks as well!) Although I spoke no Danish, at times, this country feels virtually bilingual, THERE'S NO RULE THAT YOU HAVE TO HIT THE and for the anglophone, there GROUND RUNNING! IF TRYING TO TAKE IT ALL IN are few real language barriers.

YOUR STRIDE IS CAUSING STRESS, THEN TAKE IT Then there's the digital streamlining of Danish adAT A STROLL – GO AT YOUR OWN PACE. ministration, and the extensive help we received from people on the ground (within our company and the municipality). All weekend in Copenhagen. this contributed to a smooth transition Even if you are settling in somewhere into our new life in Denmark. for more than two or three years, don't However, it also helped that after five fall into the trap of thinking, there's previous international moves, I was preplenty of time. Life will take over, just pared. I knew what I'd learned about as in your 'normal' routine. Take advanstarting over in a new country, and was tage of where you are right now, and be ready to apply some of those lessons. ready to impress visitors with your loSo if you're in that position now, and cal knowledge! it feels like you're stuck in a limbo of settling in, here are three of my hardIGNORE THE LABELS won lessons to help you hit the ground You may be an 'expat spouse'; worse, running. some might call you a 'trailing spouse'.

It's hard to come to terms with those START EXPLORING NOW labels as you move into international It's tempting to think that if you're goliving, seemingly obliged to leave being to be somewhere for a few years, hind the talents, skills, and interests there's plenty of time to explore and that formed your identity before. But travel. Then, before you know it, you're remember they are simply labels, and preparing to move on. After four years you don't have to let them define you. in Southern France, I've still never been This is just as important when you're to the Côte d'Azur, and we never did go seeking out your new community. If you whale-watching in Congo. don't like labeling yourself, you probaThis time, by day three in Denmark, bly think you won't identify with the 'exwe had already visited Ribe and Fanø, pat ladies' coffee morning' or the 'spousand within a few weeks enjoyed our first es meetup.' But if you can remember

currently living in Esbjerg, Denmark. In the decade since leaving Scotland, she’s also lived in France, Uganda and the Republic of Congo.

that each of those people is, like you, trying to shake off the label, then it's in those groups where you'll meet your future awesome friends.

#3 GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK! There's no rule that you have to hit the ground running! If trying to take it all in your stride is causing stress, then take it at a stroll – go at your own pace.

Starting life in a new country is a demanding and labour-intensive process that most people wouldn't even consider taking on. So it doesn't matter if there are daily dashes to the supermarket instead of careful meal planning. It's okay if the timeline for your goals and work plans drifts a bit.

There's a popular meme going around, declaring that 'Adventure starts at the edge of your comfort zone.' You're already at that edge – take time to enjoy the adventure! THE-INTL Read more of my hit-the-ground-running hacks at thefrustratednester.com

At her blog, The Frustrated Nester, she writes about Danish living, travel and the expat life. Her writing has also been published in the anthology Once Upon an Expat, and its follow-up Life on the Move, published in June 2019.

She’s currently working on a memoir of place and home, and is also a freelance copy-editor and proofreader.

Follow The Frustrated Nester: www.thefrustratednester.com www.facebook.com/thefrustratednester @thefrustratednester

KIM WYON

26

WHAT'S HOT IN AARHUS All good things must eventually come to an end, and lazy summer days are unfortunately no exception.

But as the city of Aarhus buzzes back to life and students flood in from all over the world, you’ll be so busy at all the fun activities September has in store, you may not even notice!

PHOTOGRAPHS VARIOUS / VISITDENMARK

Check out "Out of The Blue," the latest creative offering from AARHUSMAKERS, a new innovative platform for cultural movements and collaborations in Aarhus. This immersive, interactive exhibition explores the source of artist inspiration - the nine muses from ancient Greek mythology. A partnership between two Aarhus-based Polish designers, Ola Mirecka and Iga Górniak, the art exhibition also features a working studio where Ola and Iga will create and host multi-disciplinary workshops and events to inspire and awaken your creativity. Free admission, running from 6-28 September, Wednesday to Saturday from 12:00 to 17:00. There's also a launch party on opening night, held from 16:00-21:00 and featuring music from FEUM as well as a bar.

6-8 SEPTEMBER

AARHUS FOOD FESTIVAL

■ OVARTACI FIELDS, PALLE JUUL-JENSENS BLVD., 8200 AARHUS (NEXT TO THE AARHUS UNIVERSITETHOSPITAL LETBANEN STATION) ■ WWW.AARHUSMAKERS.COM

■ TANGKROGEN, MARSELISBORG HAVNEVEJ 2, 8000 AARHUS ■ BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT WWW.FOODFESTIVAL.DK/EN/

■ VARIOUS VENUES ■ WWW.AARHUSFESTUGE.DK/EN/

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

AARHUS FESTIVAL

30 AUGUST - 8 SEPTEMBER

From reptile expos and belly dancing to wakeboarding, karaoke and cabaret evenings featuring Cirque de Soleil performers – there is truly something for everyone at this year’s Aarhus Festival. We might be slightly biased given the origins of this writer, but we think it’s pretty awesome that Canadian indie band Arcade Fire is joining forces with the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra this year for what promises to be an unforgettable performance.

Quite fittingly, the theme for this year is Bridging, and that’s exactly what this annual festival does as it brings together seemingly unrelated art forms, genres, and interactive experiences. Make sure to check out some of the over 1000 different events showcased over this 10day festival, held 30 August - 8 September.

BARBARA BALFOUR

TELEVISION HOST, PRODUCER, PUBLIC SPEAKER, AND INTERNATIONAL PRINT JOURNALIST.

Have you always wanted to go on a seaweed safari? Does the thought of having a gourmet picnic by the seashore make your eyes light up? How about bringing home the championship in Danish hot-dog eating? At Northern Europe's biggest food festival, set against the backdrop of the bay of Aarhus, you can do all this and more, plus take part in lectures, workshops, and interactions with local brewers and producers. This highly popular annual food event welcomes up to 30,000 visitors over the weekend.

This year it takes place on 6-8 September and tickets start at 105 DKK; kids under ten are admitted free.

AARHUS FESTIVAL

AARHUS FESTIVAL

AARHUS FOOD FESTIVAL

6-28 SEPTEMBER

AARHUS MAKERS

AARHUS MAKERS

TEXT BARBARA BALFOUR

In addition to hosting a live talk show, she writes regularly for BBC World News, The Globe and Mail, and ELLE, to name a few. She has published two children’s books, contributed to tourism guidebooks on Iceland and Chile, and co-edited an anthology of essays on Canada-European Union relations.

Her work has taken her to over 40 countries, but she currently calls Aa rhu s home . W he n she’s not curled up with a good book and a hazelnut hot chocolate, you might be able to find her spinning away on the dance floor of a salsa club, or nestled in a window seat on a plane, en route to some exotic new destination. www.barbarabalfour.com

27

B e s t BEAUTY BUYS

1 0 E X L US IV E MAKEUP PRODUCT LA UN C H ES Here at The International, we love all things makeup. As a beauty editor, I get a lot of requests on introducing new products to our beauty page readers. So this month I will be doing just that! I will be letting you all in on selected new and exciting summer launches. Only a handful are available in Denmark already, and others will get the debut in Denmark in the next few months.

This means you will get the ultimate exclusives that I guarantee will have you obsessed.

1

2 BARBARA MENSAH BEAUTY EDITOR & MAKEUP ARTIST Barbara was born in Eng-

4

#1 SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH OIL &SHINE CONTROL PRIMER

land, London and relocat-

A FOUNDATION PRIMER, WHICH GOES FROM GEL TO POWDER –

ed to Copenhagen, Den-

"FEELS LIKE CLOUDS AND MATTIFIES LIKE MAGIC."

mark in 2017. She has been a professional Inter-

3

#2 TARTE FOIL FINGER PAINTS SHADOW PALETTE

national Makeup Artist

DESIGNED TO BE APPLIED WITH YOUR FINGERS AS MANY OF US USE

for 11 years and a profes-

OUR FINGERS WHEN APPLYING OUR MAKEUP.

sional Lash Stylist for 3

#3 BENEFIT COSMETICS PARTY LIKE A FLOCKSTAR PALETTE

5

bara became the owner of

A SUMMERY LOOK.

Barbara Mensah Beauty

TWELVE SHADES, 24-HOUR-LONG WEAR. FULL-COVERAGE FORMULA.

6

penhagen, Denmark, Bar-

INSPIRED BY SUMMER, INSIDE, YOU FIND ALL THE SHADES TO CREATE

#4 MAYBELLINE NEW YORK SUPER STAY UNDER-EYE CONCEALER

7

years. After moving to Co-

#5 PAT MCGRATH LABS SKIN FETISH SUBLIME PERFECTION PRIMER THIS MAGIC PRIMER SMOOTHES, HYDRATES, AND DELIVERS MOISTURE.

#6 PAT MCGRATH LABS SKIN FETISH SUBLIME PERFECTION FOUNDATION AVAILABLE IN 36 SHADES, IT’S BUILDABLE TO MEDIUM COVERAGE.

#7 PAT MCGRATH LABS SKIN FETISH SUBLIME PERFECTION POWDER SILKY, SOFT, AND BLENDABLE. AVAILABLE IN 5 SHADES GIVING A MATTE

Studio. Her stylish, cosy and chic studio provides a welcoming, comfortable space for clients to spend their time getting glammed and pampered for those special moments and occasions.

All bookings for Lash Extension and Makeup can be made via her social media or tel: +45 53564504

FINISH.

9 8

10

#8 REVLON SUPER LUSTROUS GLOSS BRAND NEW DESIGNED APPLICATOR. FOURTEEN HIGH SHINE GLOSS COLOURS TO CHOOSE FROM.

#9 MAKEUP FOREVER ULTRA HD INVISIBLE COVER FOUNDATION AVAILABLE IN 50 SHADES, FULL COVERAGE, SUPER LONG-LASTING.

#10 FENTY BEAUTY PRO FILT’R MATTIFYING PRIMER OIL-FREE, SHINE CONTROL, GIVING YOU THE FRESH MATTE FEEL.

barbaramensah. beauty@gmail.com @barbaramensahbeauty @barbara.mensah. beauty

28

JUTL AND

TEDXAARHUS

BRINGING THE PEOPLE OF AARHUS TOGETHER AROUND IDEAS WORTH SPREADING PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK / TEDXAARHUS

TEXT THEA TUKJÆR, TEDXAARHUS

A

AARHUS AND EASTERN Jutland is home to many internationalminded companies and organizations that all contribute to the internationalization of this particular area. International Community will take you by the hand and show you the diverse scene on which internationalization is built. This month we take a closer look at TEDxAarhus.

TEDxAarhus is an Aarhus-based event that brings the community together for an exciting and engaging day of “Ideas worth spreading.” Every year the volunteer organizing team gathers fabulous live speakers and performers to give an audience of +500 people a TEDlike experience. TEDxAarhus believes in ideas as a way to change the world - even if only to make it slightly better -, to connect people and to promote human understanding and togetherness.

AN INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION TEDxAarhus is bringing the world to Aarhus and Aarhus to the world. As part of a global network of TEDx-events, TEDxAarhus is bringing the newest ideas from all over the world to the people of Aarhus and the best ideas from Aarhus to the rest of the world. Recently, a talk from TEDxAarhus by the Danish researcher in nanophysics Fatima AlZahra’a Alatraktchi made it to the front page of the official TED website - something which happens to less than 1% of all TEDx talks around the world.

On a small scale level, TEDxAarhus is an international organization as well. Half of the volunteer organizers on the 2019 team are internationals, ensuring a diverse environment where all bring different perspectives to the table and learn from each other.

“Volunteering has been an excellent way for me to meet new people - both Danes and internationals - and to get to know and experience Aarhus from so many different perspectives,” says Kate Antonas, an Australian who is in her third year a TEDxAarhus organizer. She continues: “The nature of TED is to be open to listen, learn, and engage in ideas - no matter how big, small, or completely far-out. That’s very much the vibe within our team. We’re all passionate about creating the best events possible, and we’re always up for learning or trying something new, and having fun in the process - whether it be getting inspired from a talk on stage or cheering an audience member on as they get a tattoo during a lunch break! It’s a unique volunteering experience!”

In addition to the many international volunteers, a lot of the other people who are involved in putting together TEDxAarhus events e.g., speakers, hosts, and performers - are internationals. This year, a dancer, an archaeologist, and a medical physicist will enter the TEDxAarhus stage and represent the thriving international community of Aarhus and Denmark.

Tickets for TEDxAarhus 2019 on October 5 are now on sale. To secure your ticket or join next year’s volunteer organizing team, visit tedxaarhus.com. THE-INTL

DENNIS BORUP JAKOBSEN

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

WHAT IS TED? TED is a nonprofit organisation spreading ideas in the form of short talks (usually no longer than 18 mins). The annual TED conference is held in Vancouver, Canada, but all talks - TED and TEDx alike - go online afterward, inspiring and entertaining an even broader audience. There are no limits for the kinds of topics a TED-talk can cover - as long as the speaker has an idea worth spreading.

WHAT IS TEDX? TEDx is a program of local and self-organised events licensed by TED. A TEDx event is an opportunity for people to get together for a live TED-like experience rooted in their community. Over 1000 TEDx events are held in 2018 - all over the world. TEDxAarhus is one of five TEDx's in Denmark, the others being TEDxCopenhagen, TEDxOdense, TEDxFrederiksberg, and TEDxAalborg.

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY We offer a wide range of events, seminars and online activities that help internationals get settled in Denmark.

Learn more on our website or follow us on: @internationalcommunityAarhus @internationalcommunityaarhus

www.erhvervaarhus.dk www.international community.dk

KIM WYON

29

SETTLING IN 101

A JOB, EDUCATION, OR ENTREPRENEUR? THE CHOICE IS YOURS AS AN EXPAT PARTNER

M

PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO

TEXT LAURA WINTEMUTE

MANY OF YOU have put your career “on hold” to accompany your other half to Denmark. They’ve been offered a fantastic job in Denmark and a chance to live in one of the happiest countries in the world. Now you are faced with a choice, find a job, stay at home and raise your family, volunteer, learn a new language, or perhaps start your own company?

THE JOB MARKET

Perhaps you're having trouble finding a job in your field.

There are many barriers to overcome when searching for a new job, such as lack of network, work permits, and degree equivalences and not to mention the lack of Danish language.

LAURA WINTEMUTE

STUDY

OWNER, HOMESTEAD

I studied nursing in Canada, but my education wasn’t recognized in Denmark, so continuing my education wasn’t an option. I would have to start at the beginning again…in Danish.

Imagine leaving here after 3-5 or 7 years saying you learned a new language or a got your MB or doctorate. Some of you have children, well you could take night school? Online?

Laura is Canadian. After years of living abroad and travelling the world, she moved to Denmark in 2007 and started her new life as an expat living in Denmark.

STAY AT HOME Many accompanying partners remain unemployed for the duration of their stay here, although being a full-time stay at home expat partner is a full-time job in itself, it is unfortunately not seen as carrier experience. When you return home, you will have a large gap in your carrier on your resume.

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS: When I decided to go “selvstændige” (entrepreneur), I was filled with fear, excitement, and uncertainty in equal measure. It’s a major decision to become self-employed, especially in a foreign country. To my surprise, starting Homestead was a pretty simple, quick, and inexpensive procedure. The process was so easy; it took me only one day to get set up. Everything was done online, and much of it is written in English!

Denmark encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. As a result, the government offers assistance in the form of seminars, courses, and one on one counseling to help you every step of the way.

If going solo is something you would consider, browse these very useful links below, which helped me take the plunge into being self-employed, which has been the best decision of my carrier to date!

WWW.VIRK.DK: Official business internet portal that provides a single entrance to the public sector. Virk is where you register your business as well as register for VAT (TAX).

WWW.INTERNATIONALKK.DK: The International House of Copenhagen offers free courses in English for expats who want to start their own company. Make sure to visit the International Citizens Day on September 21st at DI.

WWW.NEWTODENMARK.DK: Helps with business plans, budget tools, templates, setting up NEMKONTO, taxes, and down to hiring your first employee.

WWW.HIPIH.DK - HIP IVÆRKSÆTTERHUSET: Government funded organisation that assists with every aspect of starting up your own business. Offers numerous courses and one-on-one consultations. The courses are in Danish, but the 1:1 can normally be conducted in English. THE-INTL

Laura’s experience working in the Danish relocation industry, encapsulating both her experience as an ex-pat and her desire for helping people, which is WHY she started Homestead.

Homestead offers Settling in Services and Workshops focusing on the day to day challenges of expats, as well as the cultural differences in both their work and

HOMESTEAD TIP #1 Join volunteer networks like Here We Are Global- professional expatriated partners who’ve created a forum to discuss, learn and share knowledge to pursue professional identities and opportunities and share the opportunities that come with living abroad.

HOMESTEAD TIP #2 Become a member of Connect Denmark, which is a professional network of business leaders and investors, who help start-ups boost their businesses. They organize sparring sessions called SPRINGBOARD®, where experienced leaders, successful entrepreneurs, and domain experts from their network, offer advice, and strategic sparring on the business establishment and growth strategies. It was the best thing I ever did for Homestead, and only wish I had done it a year earlier.

HOMESTEAD TIP #3 Just do it. There’s nothing more satisfying than being your own boss!

daily life.

“In House” consultations for International employees are also one of Homestead’s specialties. Customized, personal consultations focusing on the individual employee.

Homestead. We are You’re Settling in Experts.

www.homesteaddenmark.com

30

HOW TO SOCIALIZE

YOUR CAT

Socialize your cat early, and you'll thank yourself later.

S

PHOTOGRAPHS VISITDENMARK - NICLAS JESSEN

TEXT TAREK ABU SHAM

SOCIALIZATION EXPOSES CATS to people, animals, and other cats around your home. A cat that hasn't been adequately socialized may become timid, aggressive, or display problematic behaviors like scratching furniture.

Socialization promotes an affectionate, loving, well-behaved feline friend, young or old.

SOCIALIZING A KITTEN

The best time to socialize a kitten is the first few weeks of its life, just before three months. Kittens are highly alert and sensitive during this developmental period, so try to avoid negativity and stick with positive encouragement and reinforcement. Keep these tips in mind: First and foremost, when bringing a kitten or a cat home, allow it to adjust to its new environment by giving it some space. Dedicate a room that contains all the things your kitten needs and will enable the kitten to settle and calm down. After a day, start hanging out with your kitten without interacting with it, read a book or play on your phone, best while sitting on the floor. This way, you will come across as more approachable to the kitten.

RADIO: Turn on the radio with some gentle music that will allow the kitten to relax.

PETTING: Petting a kitten is an easy way to socialize it. Petting is perceived positively, and it soothes the kitten. By petting your kitten, you leave your scent behind, which the kitten then picks up as a means of establishing familiarity.

OFFER TREATS: This will encourage your kitten to come up to you, take the treats, and form a bond.

PLAY WITH YOUR KITTEN: Use toys that are attached by string to a stick. This way, you can play with your kitten from a distance without overwhelming or scaring it.

SOCIALIZING AN OLDER CAT Socializing an older cat is a more deliberate process because the learning window has closed. Still, don't give up hope! Even though an older cat may not be open to changing its habits, you can always make some headway by following these tips: AVOID CROWDS: While socializing an older cat with people, tiny gatherings with one or two people are the best bet. If there is more than one person, you should start by introducing one person at a time, first, by having your cat in the same room with the new person and allowing that person to feed your cat some treats. Make sure to properly inform your friend of your cat's expected behavior so no one is surprised by the responses you may get.

FELIWAY: Feliway is one way to calm your cat and promote social behavior. Feliway is an imitation pheromone that cats emit

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM

TAREK ABU SHAM OWNER, THE PET-AGREES Tarek was born in Amman, Jordan and from an early age has had a love for animals.

He met his spouse in Amman and then soon embarked on an expat lifestyle that took him to Dubai, Prague, and now Copenhagen. Originally a veterinarian, Tarek reinvented himself professionally and decided to launch his own company.

With The Pet-agrees, Tarek has combined his veterinary exthrough the glands on their faces when they are feeling calm and want to communicate that feeling to other cats in the area.

OBSERVATION POINTS: Allow your cat a spot somewhere high where it can observe what's going on. When cats are wary of social interactions, they like to be above the action and maintain a distance before initiating contact.

Socialization takes longer with some cats than others, but with the help of this article and with a lot of patience and respect, you will without a doubt be able to win over your cats.

LET US HELP! The Pet-agrees is not just about providing exercise and attention for your pets while you're busy or out of town. With us, you'll have the advantage of having an educated current or future veterinarian who understands your pet's needs to look after them. Send us a message today. THE-INTL

perience with his entrepreneurial spirit. The Pet-agrees cares for pets in the Copenhagen area, offering services including pet-sitting, walking, and more to come soon. www.thepetagrees.com

31

VIKINGS STILL ROCK!

Coming back to work in Roskilde where the Viking Ship Museum is, I was reminded of some of the cracking Viking novels I've read. If you also find the period fascinating or just like a good brawl, enjoy!

SUSAN JESSEN SPIELE LIBRARIAN Susan is a librarian at Roskilde Library, and in charge of the English section. She does English events all year; everything from expat dinners and pub quizzes, to karaoke nights and book talks. She is

VISITDENMARK - KIM WYON

also busy with Roskilde Hor-

GRITTY AND ACTION-PACKED

BRUTAL AND THRILLING

A VIKING MYSTERY SERIES

THE WHALE ROAD

BY ROBERT LOW

RAVEN BLOOD EYE

BY GILES KRISTIAN

KIN

BY SNORRI KRISTJANSSON

Young Orm joins the

Raven (Osric) is a boy

O athsworn, a band

who is feared and

of brothers commit-

shunned due to the

ted only to each oth-

blood clot that makes

er, riding the waves,

his left eye appear

fighting for the high-

red. His memory on-

est bidder, treading the

ly stretches back two

whale-road in search of

years. Then one day

legendary relics. The

the Norse raiders come

Norse Gods are fighting

to his small village in

and Helga has to find

the White Christ, and

England.

the murderer quickly.

the world is changing.

Adopted daughter Helga is awaiting the arrival of her four unknown siblings. Their famous father is rumored to have hidden a vast treasure from his raiding days, and the mood is ugly. Death comes,

ror, a club dedicated to scaring the town.

ENGLISH HISTORY WITH VIKINGS! THE LAST KINGDOM

BY BERNARD CORNWELL Uhtred is born into the aristocracy of ninthcentury Northumbria.

Orphaned at ten, he is captured and adopted by a Dane and taught the Viking ways. His fate is indissolubly bound up with Alfred, King of Wessex and he has to choose a side.

DID YOU KNOW? Quite a few Danish libraries have events in English, for example here in Roskilde, you can join us for a Pub Quiz in September! Just get together a team of maximum six people (friends, colleagues or fellow students). If you come alone, we will find a team for you to join. See you Thursday, 19 September at 19:00 – 22:00 at Roskilde Library.

32

SEPTEMBER 2019 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM