Two step • Nidale Tarhate

Nidale Tarhate
Australia to Hong Kong

Hi! I’m Nidale, I was lucky to work as a project engineer on the Metro project in Melbourne. I loved the multicultural and very inclusive atmosphere in this city! I was also a fervent supporter of the Moroccan national team at the Women’s World Cup in Australia. Then I went to Hong Kong, a very different world!

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Two step • December 2024

After spending a year in Melbourne, arriving in Hong Kong felt like stepping into another galaxy. The city boasts a stunning blend of gleaming skyscrapers and metallic buildings, each with unique shapes and architectural styles, set against the backdrop of lush green hills.

This striking juxtaposition continues to capture my attention every day. I was particularly impressed by the harmonious blend of Asian and British influences in the architecture, signage, shops, and restaurants, all of which contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The diversity of nationalities filling the streets further underlines this multicultural essence. It feels like anyone, from around the world, could feel at home in this city — and many do.

Stepping onto a construction site in Hong Kong as the only non-chinese and only female engineer, I was immediately struck by the vibrant, fast-paced and very demanding atmosphere of this city. The work culture here is different from any other country I have worked in. My presence as a woman in this dynamic environment sparked both curiosity and respect, encouraging me to contribute my own views and skills.

The language barrier remains a real challenge for me, but it only fuels my determination to adapt and connect with my team and clients. I quickly discovered that effective teamwork transcends language: gestures, smiles and shared goals can bridge any communication gap.

Living in bustling Hong Kong has inspired me to adopt a more disciplined training programme, which has significantly enhanced my performance at work. I also swim weekly with my VSL colleagues, fostering both camaraderie, fitness and a spirit of friendly competition.

I also had the incredible opportunity to visit Japan, a dream destination for me, where I was able to explore and immerse myself in its rich culture.

My goal this year was to learn Cantonese, but I quickly realized it would be quite challenging given the timeframe, so I pivoted to learn Italian instead. This allowed me to engage with new cultures and people as my classmates come from all over the world.

As a fashion enthusiast, I am captivated by the fast-paced and ever-evolving fashion scene in Hong Kong. There are various galleries and venues in Hong Kong that frequently host showcases for local designers allowing us as a public to discover their collections and appreciate their art. I like it!

nidale
Nidale Tarhate
Australia to Hong Kong

Hi! I’m Nidale, I work as a project engineer on the Metro project in Melbourne. I love the multicultural and very inclusive atmosphere in this city! I was also a fervent supporter of the Moroccan national team at the Women’s World Cup in Australia.

Two step • Nidale Tarhate

After spending a year in Melbourne, arriving in Hong Kong felt like stepping into another galaxy. The city boasts a stunning blend of gleaming skyscrapers and metallic buildings, each with unique shapes and architectural styles, set against the backdrop of lush green hills.

This striking juxtaposition continues to capture my attention every day. I was particularly impressed by the harmonious blend of Asian and British influences in the architecture, signage, shops, and restaurants, all of which contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The diversity of nationalities filling the streets further underlines this multicultural essence. It feels like anyone, from around the world, could feel at home in this city — and many do.

Stepping onto a construction site in Hong Kong as the only non-chinese and only female engineer, I was immediately struck by the vibrant, fast-paced and very demanding atmosphere of this city. The work culture here is different from any other country I have worked in.
My presence as a woman in this dynamic environment sparked both curiosity and respect, encouraging me to contribute my own views and skills.

The language barrier remains a real challenge for me, but it only fuels my determination to adapt and connect with my team and clients. I quickly discovered that effective teamwork transcends language: gestures, smiles and shared goals can bridge any communication gap. Living in bustling Hong Kong has inspired me to adopt a more disciplined training programme, which has significantly enhanced my performance at work. I also swim weekly with my VSL colleagues, fostering both camaraderie, fitness and a spirit of friendly competition.

I also had the incredible opportunity to visit Japan, a dream destination for me, where I was able to explore and immerse myself in its rich culture.

My goal this year was to learn Cantonese, but I quickly realized it would be quite challenging given the timeframe, so I pivoted to learn Italian instead. This allowed me to engage with new cultures and people as my classmates come from all over the world.

As a fashion enthusiast, I am captivated by the fast-paced and ever-evolving fashion scene in Hong Kong. There are various galleries and venues in Hong Kong that frequently host showcases for local designers allowing us as a public to discover their collections and appreciate their art. I like it!