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I am originally from Brazil. Before joining the PUMA family, I gained experience in the service and hospitality sectors in HR since 2013. I come directly from São Paulo, my hometown.

Did you struggle in the beginning after your relocation?

Less than I thought. The support I got from PUMA and especially from my colleagues was fantastic. It made the transition much easier. People would assume just because I’m from Brazil that the weather would be the biggest challenge, but it wasn’t! I like the cold weather. The fact that it got dark very early impressed me the most. I have also heard that the sun sets very late in the summer, and that is also something very different for me. The body and the mind are affected in so many different ways. It is important to have a strong back-up, to take things slowly and to eat healthy.

Why did you choose to relocate?

Since I was very young, the idea of living abroad has always fascinated me. Speaking another language and getting to know other cultures has always interested me. So when I applied and got the offer, it was a no-brainer! The opportunity to come to Germany and work for one of the most valuable brands in the world also made the decision easier.

What’s the “weirdest” thing about living in this new culture?

The most important lesson I’ve learned so far is how much of a “do-it-yourself” culture we have in Germany. You buy your furniture and YOU assemble it. YOU separate your rubbish and take it outside. I feel that independence is something that is taught to children here from an early age and that is reflected in many cultural aspects. It’s also reflected in the way people work and I feel constantly challenged by that, which also makes me grow a lot.

Did you know the language when you relocated and how hard was it to adjust?

I did! I studied German for four years, but I gave it up when the grammar became too hard. Now, 10 years later, there’s no escaping it! Having a base definitely makes things easier. In May, I will attend another German course and I can’t wait to learn even more and become more confident in expressing myself and dealing with everyday situations.

I come from São Paulo and worked at PUMA Brasil for five years before coming to Germany.

What do you like about the relocation experience?

From the moment I applied for the job until I came here, it was a great adventure. It gave me a better understanding of my own goals, my weaknesses, but most of all my strengths. On the day I left, a fellow traveller told me that moving to an unknown country will make me much stronger. And day by day I see that this makes perfect sense. Moving opens your mind to so many things: culture, people, habits, language. As a communication professional, that’s what I enjoy most about this experience.

Did you struggle in the beginning?

I just spent a month here and I can say that I still do. Some days it’s harder, you literally feel lost. It can feel like you have to learn everything from scratch. But with calm and patience, I know things will work out. Again, through all these struggles, you learn a lot about yourself and become more resilient to everything in life.

Why did you choose to relocate?

The most interesting people I have ever met are those who have good stories and experiences to tell. One thing they all have in common is the diversity of cultures in their background. For me, the best way to achieve this is to get out of your comfort zone, go into a completely new environment and learn from as many people as possible. That’s what motivates me every day, the opportunity to inspire other people like those who once inspired me.

What’s the weirdest thing about living in this new culture?

Well, as a Brazilian-Italian, the way we communicate with emotions is definitely very different from here. Sometimes I think someone was rude or that I said something wrong, but in the end it wasn’t like that.

Did you know the language when you relocated and how hard was it to adjust?

Unfortunately not. German is one of the things I struggle with. For me, the worst thing is not being able to communicate in certain situations because of the language. Once I’m better adjusted, I really want to make an effort to learn it.

What would you tell other people who are thinking about a relocation?

Willingness is energy! If you really want something, think every day about how you can achieve it and put that energy into everything you do. It won’t be easy, but don’t give up. It has been by far the most challenging and rewarding experience in my life. And don’t be afraid to face the fear that will eventually come, because many people don’t live their dreams because of it.

What’s your favorite thing about the new culture/country you are living in?

In any case, safety and the careful treatment of the environment. In my opinion, these two factors are crucial for quality of life. To live well, you have to feel safe, do the right thing and be socially responsible with the collective you live in.

After studying in Germany and the US, I started my career in the hospitality industry, which gave me the opportunity to work where other people go on holiday or business. Because of this, I had the unique opportunity to work in Kuwait, Zanzibar, Djibouti and at sea (on a cruise ship). After returning to Germany, I moved to Munich and later to Herzogenaurach, where I started my journey almost eight years ago at PUMA headquarters. Now I am in Stockholm, where I support the PUMA Nordic organisation.

What do you like about the experience?

In all these different phases of my career, I have come to know and appreciate different cultures and points of view. It is a real treasure to get to know people in different parts of the world, to still be in contact with them and to constantly learn from the exchange of opinions. It is truly eye-opening, rewarding and gives me a better understanding of what is happening in the world.

Did you struggle in the beginning?

Yes. When I move to another country, I always had a culture shock that I had to overcome at first. At the same time, once you let go and open up, it helps to integrate into a new environment, make contacts and develop a deeper understanding.

Why did you choose to relocate?

It is about learning from and with others – observing, asking and listening. For me, it has always been a privilege and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone.

Did you know the language when you relocated and how hard was it to adjust?

No, I knew almost no language except English when I moved to the US. In most countries I’ve lived in, the second (official) language is English, which made it easier for me, as I only picked up a few more words here and there.

What would you tell other people who are thinking about a relocation?

Do it! Nobody says it will be easy, but you will learn a lot and it is very worthwhile. You get to know different business approaches and develop personally.

What’s your favorite thing about the new culture/country you are living in?

I’m still trying to figure out how best to live “lagom”. This is the Swedish meaning of “just the right amount” or “in balance”, where I can learn a lot from my new colleagues.