From Brazil to Auckland: Noila’s Transformative Journey as an Expat Artist Interview

In a world where the term ‘expat’ conjures images of adventurous souls charting new paths in foreign lands, Noila Souza’s story stands as a beacon of inspiration. Young people globally are increasingly choosing the expat life, seeking not just new scenery but transformative life experiences.

Noila’s journey from the cozy towns of Brazil to the vibrant landscapes of Auckland, New Zealand, is a testament to this spirit of exploration and self-discovery.

Let’s start with this Expat Artist Interview

In this exclusive interview, Noila shares her captivating story of how a simple curiosity about the world turned into a life-changing decision. She reveals the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture, learning a new language, and finding her true calling as an artist.

Noila’s narrative is not just about geographical change; it’s about personal growth, overcoming fears, and embracing the unknown with open arms.

Readers will get an intimate glimpse into the life of an expat, understanding the deep longing for home and the exhilarating joy of creating a new one. Noila’s insights are invaluable for anyone dreaming of making a bold move in life, filled with practical advice and heartfelt wisdom.

Hi Noila! Nice to meet you!  Please introduce yourself briefly!

I am Noila Souza, a Gaúcha born in Palmeira das Missões but grew up in Novo Hamburgo. When someone asks about my age, “I am old enough to live out of the country” (joking).

I live in Auckland, New Zealand, where I discovered myself as an artist five years ago and it has become my full-time occupation.

What motivated you to make this significant life change?

First, it was curiosity. I wanted to learn a new language and have an experience of living in another country, changing my life for a bit.

Have there been any significant changes in your life following this decision?

Certainly, leaving family and friends and learning a new culture and language are already significant changes. But I have grown as a person and learned how to “survive in a different world”.

What differences do you find between living in your home country and in New Zealand?

The culture is totally different, as well as the climate and the food. But initially, the most difficult thing was how to communicate.

How often do you go back home, and how do you feel each time?

After one year in New Zealand, I went back home for a month. After that, the Covid-19 pandemic hit and I went back to Brazil after 5 years. At the moment, it has been a bit more than one year since my last trip to Brazil.

I feel like 2 years is enough time to miss my family and friends and go and visit them, but we also have to plan the trip very well in terms of expenses.

What do you miss the most about Brazil?

My family and friends, for sure.

What are your future plans?

I usually live in the present. I don’t plan my future that much. I go with the flow, which I think is a better way to seize more opportunities in life without blocking things by making early decisions. The only “plan”  I have is enjoy life and be grateful  everyday.

What advice would you give to someone who would like to make a courageous choice like yours?

Just do it! Save money, study a bit about the place where you want to go, and check if it’s really what you’re going to “fall in love” with. Check the culture, the weather, the food, but also leave the doubts and uncertainties behind and follow your dreams.

Go without fear to be happy. Be open-minded about new opportunities and don’t be afraid to try new jobs. If you have opportunities before traveling, take different courses, learn how to cook, how to build things, how to cut your own hair, how to organize your life on your own. Be open to everything that comes ahead, and especially leave “your culture behind.” This doesn’t mean changing who you are, but being open to new things.

Thank You Noila!

In this inspiring interview, Noila Souza encapsulates the essence of what it means to be an expat. Her journey from the comfort of South of Brazil to the vibrant landscapes of Auckland, New Zealand, is a vivid illustration of the transformative power of embracing new cultures and experiences.

Noila’s transition from curiosity to a full-fledged life abroad highlights the adventurous spirit and resilience inherent in the expat experience. She candidly shares the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, the longing for home, and the exhilarating joy of creating a new life.

Some take aways form Noila’s Expat Artist Interview

Her advice to future expats is pragmatic yet inspiring: save money, research thoroughly, be open to new experiences, and most importantly, leave behind doubts and embrace the journey with an open mind.

Her approach to life – living in the present and being open to opportunities – offers a fresh perspective on navigating the complexities of life as an expat.

Noila’s artistic journey, blossoming in the unfamiliar territory of New Zealand, is a testament to the creative possibilities that arise when one steps out of their comfort zone. Her experiences serve as invaluable insights for anyone considering a bold move in their life.

To connect with Noila and follow her artistic endeavors, you can visit her website at www.aliondraws.co.nz or her Instagram page @a_lion_draws. Her journey is a vivid reminder that sometimes, the most significant life changes begin with a simple curiosity and a courageous step into the unknown.