Tales of the VOSKER Nomads
Hey there! I'm Naima. Two years ago, with my cat in tow, I left the dreariness of my hometown, Lille, for the perpetual snow of Quebec for a bunch of reasons. The biggest one being my thirst for adventure. I love discovering new things, finding myself in unique situations, and letting my adaptability shine. Makes for some great stories, you know? And why Quebec? Well, I'm all about wide-open spaces, nature, quality of life, and the kindness of people, but above all else: snow and all the activities that come with it. Despite all the amazing experiences I've had as a newcomer, there are moments when I really feel the distance from my family, who are exactly 5,460 km away. Sometimes I get hit with a wave of nostalgia, wishing I could share certain moments with them...
I joined VOSKER a year and a half ago, without knowing that remote work abroad would become one of the perks for employees. I got to test it out during trial phases, like during a religious celebration that means a lot more when spent with loved ones. Last May, I flew back to France to recharge with my family and indulge in my mom's delicious cooking (especially her couscous) that I'd been craving and missed so much!
Then, recently, I pulled off a surprise visit worthy of some movies. Nobody expected to see me. I surprised my parents by showing up at their doorstep during a FaceTime call. Unfortunately, my mom was napping and didn't recognize the street she'd lived on for over 20 years through the tiny screen... But the most successful surprise was definitely the one I pulled on my sister, with the help of an accomplice. I hid, lying in her bed, in the dark, until she entered her room and found me. When she finally spotted me, she couldn't believe her eyes... We were both so moved and fell into each other's arms. I've organized my schedule with my manager's help to be efficient at work, but also to not miss out on family time. The first time I went back, the first three days were rough because I was still adjusting to the 6-hour time difference, but I eventually found my groove. I'd start work at 10 a.m. while my colleagues were still asleep and finish at 7 p.m. It gave me some quiet time to work on projects and be available for half the day to collaborate with my colleagues. Evenings were all about family, which made me incredibly happy!
The « workation » periods allow me to both work and share simple moments with my loved ones, whether it's admiring the last pumpkin my dad grew or welcoming a new baby into the family... I've been able to enjoy adventures away from home and cherish precious moments with my family. It's a balance that's essential to my personal growth, and I'm so grateful that VOSKER values it just as much! Thanks to this perk, I'm more at ease managing my vacation time because I know I'll always have the opportunity and freedom to visit family and strengthen our bonds. Those 5,460 km don't seem like such a barrier with VOSKER’s Teleworking Abroad Program!
