For the first 2024 Crossing Roots, I interviewed Nelson Lucena, Head of Operations APAC at Chubb, based in Singapore. I had the privilege of working with Nelson in the financial services industry during my trainee days in Brazil. Nelson moved with his family to Singapore in 2016, returned to Brazil, and then relocated back to Singapore in 2021. In our interview, he shares about how these great cultural experiences have shaped his career and family.
Expat Bio:
Born in: Brazil
Total Years Living Abroad: 8 years
Cities & Countries: Singapore
Current City: Singapore
Lives with: Wife, kids (3, 15 and 19 Current Company/Title: Chubb, Head of Operations APAC
Hobbies: Walking, traveling and basketball
What drove you to become an expat?
My decision to become an expat was primarily driven by a desire for professional growth and new challenges. I wanted to expand my horizons beyond Brazil and gain experience working in a different cultural environment. Additionally, I was fascinated by the opportunity to live in a dynamic and diverse city like Singapore.
What were your main challenges when you relocated with your family?
The main challenges we faced during our initial relocation to Singapore were:
Language barrier: Adapting to a new language, especially for my wife and kids, was a significant hurdle. We enrolled in language classes and immersed ourselves in local culture to overcome this challenge.
Cultural differences: Adjusting to a new culture and its social norms required patience and understanding. We actively participated in community events and sought out friendships with other expats to ease this transition.
Finding suitable housing and schools: With young children, finding a safe and comfortable home as well as enrolling them in quality schools was a priority. This involved thorough research and seeking assistance from relocation experts.
How was moving to Singapore for the second time different than when you moved for the first time?
Moving back to Singapore was much smoother than our initial relocation. We were already familiar with the city and its culture, which made settling in easier. We also had existing connections with friends and colleagues, which provided a sense of belonging and support. Additionally, our children were older and better equipped to adapt to new environments.
What have been your main learnings working with multicultural teams?
Working with multicultural teams has been a rewarding experience that has enriched my professional and personal life. I have learned to:
Embrace cultural differences: Each individual brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table, which fosters creativity and innovation.
Develop effective communication skills: Clear, concise, and respectful communication is essential for overcoming misunderstandings and building strong relationships within diverse teams.
Be adaptable and flexible: Different cultures have different working styles and expectations. Being flexible and adaptable allows for effective collaboration and achieving shared goals.
How do you maintain a strong connection to your cultural heritage?
We maintain a strong connection to our Brazilian heritage in several ways:
Celebrating cultural events: We participate in Brazilian festivals and celebrations in Singapore, keeping our traditions alive.
Cooking Brazilian food: We regularly prepare and enjoy traditional Brazilian dishes, sharing our culinary heritage with our children.
Connecting with other Brazilians: We have a network of Brazilian friends and families in Singapore, which allows us to maintain a sense of community and belonging
How do you feel this experience has impacted and will continue to impact your children's future?
Living abroad has significantly impacted our children's development. They have become:
Culturally aware and adaptable: They have learned to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, which will benefit them in an increasingly globalized world.
Independent and resilient: They have developed strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, which will enable them to face challenges and thrive in unfamiliar situations.
Open-minded and communicative: They have learned to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds, fostering greater empathy and understanding.
We believe this experience will continue to shape their future by providing them with a global perspective and preparing them to succeed in a multicultural world.
What do you like the most about living in Singapore?
Singapore offers a unique blend of modern infrastructure, cultural diversity, and a vibrant lifestyle. I particularly appreciate:
Safety and security: Singapore is a safe and family-friendly environment, which provides peace of mind.
Multiculturalism: The diverse population and rich cultural tapestry offer endless opportunities for learning and experiencing different ways of life.
Efficiency and convenience: Singapore’s efficient infrastructure and public transportation make daily life easy and convenient.
What advice would you offer to executives contemplating an international assignment?
Do your research: Gather as much information as possible about the country you are relocating to, including its culture, customs, and language.
Prepare your family: Discuss the relocation with your family openly and address any concerns they may have.
Be open-minded: Embrace new experiences and be willing to adapt to different ways of life.
Build relationships: Connect with other expats and locals to develop a support network.
Maintain a positive attitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your new life and remember that the challenges you face will lead to personal and professional growth.
Nelson, thanks for sharing your experiences and insights!
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