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Adilstone Abroad: Working and Living as a Family throughout Southeast Asia

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Working abroad can be an incredibly transformative experience. In this edition of Adilstone Abroad, we delve into the inspiring journey of Chad and Corrie Irons, an amazing Australian couple who have made Cambodia their home while working at Adilstone's Cambodia Office. Their story is truly remarkable!

Embarking on a Journey Together

Driven by their passion for community work, Chad and Corrie have dedicated their lives to diverse roles across different countries. Their journey to Cambodia began with Chad's work in Southeast Asia even before they were married. Corrie visited Chad during her university days, and it left a lasting impression on her. Corrie recalls, "He paid for my visit to Vietnam. I fell in love with the country, its people, and its food." They always envisioned returning to Southeast Asia. The pandemic lockdowns became a turning point in 2022, and after evaluating their options, Cambodia felt like the perfect place to be. With a network in Phnom Penh and opportunities to contribute, their decision became even stronger.

Of course, transitioning to a new country comes with its share of challenges. Initially, language was a barrier, but they soon realized it was an opportunity for growth. Chad shared about their initial three months in a language-intensive course, saying, "We certainly don't know the language yet, but we've begun to grasp enough to get by." Corrie highlights how many Khmer people understand and read English better than they speak it, making written communication more convenient.

Overcoming and Creating a New Home

However, language is just one aspect of adaptation. Chad mentions the need to adjust to the highly relational nature of personal and business relationships in Asia, which can differ from Western expectations. Corrie, on the other hand, faced unique challenges in her kitchen due to the unreliability of online stock information. Nonetheless, they have both learned the importance of embracing the local ways and avoiding frustrations caused by trying to replicate their previous routines.

Throughout their journey, Chad and Corrie have found strength in their unwavering support for each other. Effective communication has been key in ensuring their goals and expectations remain aligned. Like puzzle pieces, their strengths and weaknesses complement each other, helping them overcome unexpected hurdles.

Adventures in Life and Work

Their professional journey in Cambodia has not only enhanced their primary skills but also developed their soft skills. Chad's accounting and business expertise now coexist with a deeper understanding of working styles and collaboration in a diverse environment. Corrie encourages others to work abroad, as it challenges one's worldview and fosters personal growth.

Despite these changes in their lives, one thing remains cherished from their home country of Australia. Sharing a daily coffee has remained a constant in their lives, providing a valuable opportunity to connect. On Saturdays, they explore different breakfast places, allowing food to play a significant role in their shared experiences. Even though their coffee standards may have been spoiled in Melbourne, they appreciate the ritual and the chance to connect with others.
Their international work in Cambodia has broadened their horizons and emphasized the importance of soft skills. By building professional networks and fostering deep relationships, they have come to appreciate the beauty of cultural interaction. Engaging in language exchanges, attending local church services, and sharing meals with the community have enriched their lives. Chad has even discovered an unexpected love for karaoke, while Corrie has developed a newfound passion for gardening.

For those couples considering a similar path to live and work overseas, Chad advises working overseas to address skills gaps in different countries. Adilstone provided him with an opportunity to utilize his skills while immersing himself in a new culture. Experiencing diversity fosters personal growth and a deeper understanding of others.

On the other hand, Corrie emphasizes the importance of mutual commitment and agreement for couples planning to work overseas. Open communication and readiness for challenges are crucial before leaving their home country. By supporting each other through the process, couples can overcome any obstacles they may encounter.

Looking to the Future

In Chad and Corrie's story, they showed courage, adaptation, and mutual support. Their journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new cultures and experiences. They exemplify that with an open heart, we can not only navigate through challenges but also turn them into opportunities for growth and enrichment. 

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Global Regions & Countries

Asia
Cambodia

Content Category

Taking your Job Overseas
Transitioning into a New Job
Challenges to Going and Staying

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