Join me as we explore the inspiring story of Vagner. Our paths first crossed while we were both living and working in Miami, but Vagner's international adventures began long before that. As a child, he lived in the USA with his family, and later, he spent some time as a college student in Amsterdam. These early experiences ignited a passion for the global stage, setting the path for an international career. When we met and started envisioning our future together, one thing was certain – living abroad was an essential part of our dreams. Today, I have the privilege of interviewing my husband, Vagner. Join me on an engaging conversation that explores his journey, his insights, and the shared adventure of an international life. I hope you enjoy it!
Expat Bio:
Born in: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Total Years Living Abroad: 9
Cities & Countries: New York & Miami (USA), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Paris (France), Madrid & Barcelona (Spain)
Current City: Barcelona, Spain
Lives with: Wife (Tati Paes) and kids (6 and 4 years old)
Current Company/title: Danone, Senior Marketing Director
What drove you to become an expat?
When I reflect on my path to an international career, it began in the 1980s when I lived abroad at the age of four. This sparked my interest in diverse cultures. As I progressed professionally and assumed leadership roles in multinational organizations, I realized the value of a global perspective. This, along with my desire to provide my family with similar enriching experiences, led me to pursue an international career. My journey is driven by personal growth and a commitment to fostering cultural understanding, both within my family and the teams I lead.
How do you compare living in France and Spain?
When I think about living in both Spain and France, I see more similarities than differences. Both countries, from their love for food to their shared values of respect, fairness, and caring, have a lot in common. The richness of their cultures and how they pass it down through generations is something I really appreciate, especially as a Brazilian parent living far from home.
How do you think your experience abroad has helped you grow as a professional?
Having the opportunity to work abroad has been an invaluable experience in my professional career. It's not just about the knowledge and skills I've gained but also the personal growth it has fostered. Firstly, from a professional perspective, working in different countries has exposed me to diverse markets and consumer behaviors. This global perspective has allowed me to approach challenges with a broader mindset, considering various cultural nuances and market dynamics. It's also provided me with a unique vantage point to identify emerging trends and adapt our consumer goods strategies accordingly.
On a personal level, living and working abroad has taught me adaptability, patience, and a deeper appreciation for diversity. Being in unfamiliar environments, often away from my comfort zone, has required me to embrace change and new perspectives. This adaptability and openness to different cultures have not only enriched my personal life but have also influenced how I collaborate and lead within my team. It has instilled in me the importance of empathy, active listening, and effective communication, which I believe are critical qualities for any leader.
How do you stay connected to your roots?
We maintain a strong connection with our family and friends in Brazil. At home, we immerse our children in our culture through stories, videos, and traditions. We are aware that there are many experiences and information they may not have access to by default, as if we lived in Brazil, so we make a conscious effort to ensure they learn about their heritage, which is an integral part of their identity.
What do you believe is the main challenge faced by expat families?
In many ways, the success of an international relocation hinges on our ability to foster a collective sense of resilience and openness within the family. It's about adopting a mindset that embraces change and values the enrichment that comes from embracing a new culture, all while staying grounded in the shared aspirations that initially led us to embark on this expatriate journey. Ultimately, among the obvious challenges of finding a house and adapting to a new school, I find the family's settling into life in the new city to be extremely difficult and demanding. It's a process that doesn't happen in a week; rather, it demands self-awareness and a steadfast commitment to the original goals that motivated the expatriation. It is a journey that, with the necessary support, strengthens our connection to the new city, reinforces the bonds that unite us as a family, and leads to overall success!
What do you consider to be your main learning so far in your experience abroad?
The more I live abroad, the more I have an appreciation and admiration for my home country.
What advice would you give someone considering to become an expat?
Connect with other expats and seek expert guidance. Joining a community of expats provides valuable insights and support, while expert advice ensures a smoother transition into your new life abroad
I hope you've found this interview with Vagner both enjoyable and inspiring. It has offered insights into what drove him to embrace expat life and provided perspectives on his journey alongside our family, as well as his professional growth. Stay tuned for more expat stories and experiences!
Hi Tati, the blog is amazing. I read your interview with @Vagner Paes. It is very inspiring and, for me, emotional. I have known Vagner since he was a trainee in Unilever Brazil.
In 2007, Vagner encouraged me to accept a challenge to expatriate to the UK with my family. In that time, he was going to Miami.
I am very proud of him and his achievement. He built a beautiful family and a brilliant career. He is a great person and a fantastic leader.
Hey Tati, your interview with Vagner is fantastic! It's so inspiring to hear about his international journey and how it's enriched your lives. Keep up the great work! 🌍🌟