On July 13th, as a part of the expat lens, we will chat with Tarek Younis about his journey from major cities across five continents till he finds Poland as home. We explore Warsaw from his perspective and try to see the city from his lens.

From Global Nomad to Warsaw Wanderer: Diving into cultural immersion, bridging differences, and thriving opportunities

Tarek Younis is a seasoned business executive who dedicated his career to crafting successful ventures with a positive impact. Since 2007, Tarek has been immersed in commercial strategy, transforming small projects into sustainable triumphs. But his ambitions extend beyond mere success; he strives to continuously learn and expand his horizons, pushing the boundaries of what he can achieve. Throughout his journey, he has led teams of over 1000 individuals across various industries and geographic markets, specializing in startups, leadership, commercial strategy and planning, mentoring and coaching, and growth tactics. Tarek's upbringing in different countries gave him a deep understanding of adaptability and embracing diversity. In 2017, he embarked on a new chapter as an expat, choosing the vibrant city of Warsaw as his home. From the very beginning, Warsaw presented itself as a unique and awe-inspiring place, unlike any other he had encountered before. The rich culture and history embedded within the hearts of the locals and residents captured his imagination, leaving an indelible mark on his soul. Having lived in major cities across five continents, each with distinctive character, Tarek discovered common threads that wove through the tapestry of life. In Poland, he started anew, immersing himself in the culture, language, and history. He marveled at the Polish norms, the fascinating language, the historical connections, and the genuine curiosity of the locals toward those who were different. These experiences have shaped Tarek's perspective and enriched his understanding of adapting to new cultural norms, embracing differences, and seizing the abundance of opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you are an expat yourself, considering a move, or intrigued by life in Warsaw, allow me to share Tarek's unique insights with you.

Embracing Cultural Norms:

One of the most exhilarating aspects of Tarek's life in Warsaw has been his deep immersion in the city's rich cultural heritage. When he set foot in the city, he consciously tried to understand and honor Polish customs. Whether he was partaking in traditional festivities, indulging in local delicacies, or basking in the warmth of Polish hospitality, Tarek swiftly assimilated into the cultural fabric of this vibrant city, and he couldn't be happier.

Language: A Gateway to Integration:

With its melodic sounds and vast vocabulary, the Polish language initially presented a formidable challenge to Tarek. However, he wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to learn and communicate in the local language as much as possible. Enrolling in language classes, engaging with locals, and utilizing language-learning apps, he gradually gained confidence in his linguistic abilities, even if it was just enough to navigate small shops. Yet, Tarek knows he still has a long way to go on his journey of language mastery.

Bridging Differences: Fostering Connections:

Poland is a melting pot of diverse cultures and nationalities, enabling Tarek to forge meaningful connections with individuals from all walks of life. By actively participating in social activities, attending cultural events, and engaging in community initiatives, he has established a network of friends and colleagues who have enriched his experience and bridged the gap between their diverse backgrounds.

Exploring Professional Opportunities:

With its thriving economy and dynamic business environment, Warsaw offers a boundless array of opportunities for personal and professional growth. As an expat, Tarek has been fortunate to tap into this vibrant job market, where his international perspective and skills are valued. He has successfully established himself in his desired field by leveraging networking events, online platforms, and professional organizations.

Embracing the City's Wonders:

Beyond adapting to cultural norms and pursuing professional growth, Warsaw has become a never-ending source of exploration and adventure for Tarek. Every corner of this captivating city, from the enchanting streets of the Old Town to the verdant parks and bustling markets, beckons him to immerse himself in its vibrant tapestry. The rich history, thriving arts scene, and breathtaking architecture of Warsaw have captured his heart, and he finds himself strolling through its streets, discovering its wonders at every turn.

Tarek Younis was Originally from Cairo, Egypt

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ExpatLens is a toolkit for those who want to choose Warsaw, gain experience, and those who live here and want to see their city from the lens of expats and fall in love with it repeatedly.

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