Prakash Interview from Netherlands

Moving to a new country is a monumental experience, filled with challenges and opportunities. Prakash, who recently relocated from Nepal to the picturesque town of Enkhuizen in the Netherlands, shares his insights about this significant transition, the cultural differences he’s encountered, and his professional journey at Enza. Let’s jump into this amazing journey:

Kim: Hello Prakash! First of all, welcome to the Netherlands! You’ve been here since May, and it must have been an exciting journey so far. How have you feeling?

Prakash: Hi Kim, it has been an exciting trip so far. It has been all about seeing and learning about many cultural differences and lifestyles here than in Nepal. Of course, sometimes I miss my friends and family.

Settling in the Netherlands

Kim: You’ve been living in Enkhuizen for a few months now. How was the initial transition for you, moving to a new country and settling into a different environment?

Prakash: It was a bit of a challenge at first, moving to a new place, meeting new people and adjusting to a different culture. I was lucky to have lots of support from friends and colleagues as I got used to things. Now I feel really settled here. I'm so grateful to everyone who helped me settle in!

Kim: What was your first impression of Enkhuizen? How do you find living in a town that is different from home?

Prakash: Enkhuizen is a small city with lots to do and see. I really like the place. Not very busy but busy enough to enjoy the place.

Kim: How has the local community been? Have you had a chance to meet people and explore the area?

Prakash: I haven't had the chance to meet many local people yet, but everyone I've met has been so lovely! Oh yes, I've had a little look around the area. I haven't had a chance to explore every corner yet, but I'm looking forward to it! As I mentioned before, I absolutely love this place! It has so much history, and it's right near a beautiful canal and harbour. And of course, there are lots of lovely restaurants and coffee shops nearby where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink.

Cultural Differences and Adjustments

Kim: Moving from Nepal to the Netherlands must have come with its cultural differences. What were some of the biggest adjustments you had to make, both personally and professionally?

Prakash: The biggest change for me was having to take care of everything on my own, and having to spend every weekend without my friends, who I love going out with.

Professionally, I've been chatting with the lovely Nepal team online to discuss things. Sometimes I really wish I could have been there with them, discussing and writing on the board – it would have been so easy! On the bright side, it's now so easy to chat with people here!

Kim: Any particular Dutch customs or habits that you found interesting or surprising?

Prakash: We totally get it. You need to make appointments almost everywhere these days! And there are fewer chances to chat with people, as almost everything is done by computer. If you're even a few seconds late, you'll miss the train! 😊 There are so many rules! Even car sitting has its own set of guidelines. If you're the senior in the group, you get to sit in the front seat!

Kim: How has your daily routine changed compared to back in Nepal?

Prakash: Oh my, it's so hectic here! I'm on my own for this one! And of course, it's so difficult to meet up with friends every weekend, isn't it?

Professional Experience at Enza

Kim: You’ve been working with Enza for a while now. Could you share your experience working there so far?

Prakash – It's so lovely to catch up with people I've worked with for a long time! I am now able to chat things through in person! It's also really lovely to see how our applications are being used in the real world and the difference they're making!

Kim: What kind of projects are you currently involved in? How do you find the collaborative environment at Enza?

Prakash: We are focused on web/mobile apps development, mostly data related applications. The working environment is lovely, and everyone is so approachable, which makes it easy to chat about anything and everything. I really don't feel like an outsider at Enza.

Kim: Have there been any challenges or opportunities you encountered that were unique to working in the Netherlands?

Prakash: Sometimes after the Nepal team has gone home from the Nepal office; I have to look at and support issues on my own. I really miss my lovely team for discussion and support!

As for the opportunity, when we meet with each other, we have other topic discussions apart from the project work as well. This could lead to new work, which is really nice. And of course, there is pressure as well. People here can share with me more things which they do not share while having meetings online.

Balancing Work and Life

Kim: Living in a new country also brings new opportunities to balance work and life. Have you found time to pursue any hobbies or activities outside of work? What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Prakash: I'm still getting to know this lovely city, and I love spending time exploring. I often take a stroll along the dike, walk through the new area, and enjoy the harbour.

Kim: Have you discovered any favourite Dutch foods or local activities that you enjoy?

Prakash: I absolutely adore smoked salmon and kibble, too! I'd love to find a local activity to enjoy apart from walking and cycling around!

Kim: How do you maintain connections with family and friends back home?

Prakash: Of course, video call. :)

Lessons Learned

Kim: Having spent a few months here, what are some key lessons you’ve learned from living and working in the Netherlands?

Prakash: Everything is on time and by appointment. There are rules for almost everything.

Kim: How has this experience helped you grow both personally and professionally?

Prakash: Plan ahead and be on time.

Kim: Any advice for colleagues or friends who might consider relocating to the Netherlands in the future?

Prakash: There are lots of cultural differences here, and of course the lifestyle is also very different! Be prepared for a very different life schedule than what you are used to. You need to be disciplined and be on time, but I know you can do it!

Looking Ahead

Kim: Lastly, as you continue your journey here, what are you most looking forward to in the coming months? Any plans or goals that you’re excited about, both personally and professionally?

Prakash: I would like to cycle around the dijk one day. Let’s see if I could do that or not. And explore the Netherlands little more. Work wise, there is something going on. I hope, it goes well.

Kim: What do you hope to accomplish by the end of this year?

Prakash: Learn some common Dutch words. Everything is on Dutch here, so learning some words would help me, I believe.

Kim: Thank you so much, Prakash, for sharing your experience with us. It’s inspiring to hear how you’re embracing this new chapter. Any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with your colleagues back home or anyone reading this interview?

Prakash: Moving to the Netherlands has quite some differences and challenges initially, but there is nothing to worry about as things get settled with time. You will meet with lots of nice people. Summer is nice with long days! :)