Page 63 - IFAFA ebook v4

While in Chicago, I was commissioned to do work for the European

Commission and the International Labour Organisation, which I

managed alongside the significant representational requirements of

the posting and involvement in the children’s school as Vice

President of the PTA.

The role of a diplomatic spouse can be challenging but I think that
‘growing up’ through the organization over the last 21 years has

helped me gain perspective on how much of yourself you give to the

’job’. I have proudly served my country alongside my husband and

children over the years, but I recognize the need to mind yourself

and make sure you get something out of the posting too, whether

that be independent work or travel or quality family time.

Having the support of IFAFA friends has been very valuable and

Aidan and myself have also benefited from the wisdom and kindness
of colleagues and their spouses with whom we have served over the

years.

I currently work remotely in Abu Dhabi for the Department of

Business, Enterprise and Innovation and this is the first time I

have had the opportunity to do so. The world is changing and the

scope for remaining employed during posting is widening. I would
like to see the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade explore the

ways in which they may be able to facilitate employment or project
work for those spouses and partners who may wish to do so.

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