Name: Adama
Pronoun(s): she/her
Nationality: British
Hometown: London
Current location: London
Occupation: Financial Consultant
Meet Adama
Hi I’m Adama, born and raised in London, of Sierra Leonean descent. I work as a financial consultant for a multinational management consultancy firm, but outside of my work life I love to travel, dance and I’m an avid gym-goer and fitness enthusiast. Fun fact – I always aim to get a photo of me doing a handstand in every country I visit.
On Education
If you went to college, how did you choose your program? Did your decision change over the course of your time at school?
I chose to study International Politics because I always had a love for politics and humanities. I had no regrets and would study it all over again if I could.
It’s important to study something that you would enjoy, rather than something you think will give you a job
In your opinion, what makes travel uniquely “educational”?
You can learn a tremendous amount about the world from literature, documentaries and having a diverse group of friends, but you will always be experiencing the world through the eyes of others. Nothing can compare to seeing the world for yourself and learning how to navigate other cultures in real time. Traveling will also humble you, because you will truly realise just how small you are, and everything about your way of life that you thought to be the standard, is in fact just one of a million different ways to live.
What, in your opinion, are three of the most useful languages someone can learn? Why?
It goes without saying that English is an incredibly useful language to know. It is the lingua franca of the world.
I’m always amazed that no matter where I am in the world, other travelers and locals alike from different countries use English to communicate with one another
Another great language is Spanish. Spanish is widely spoken in over 20 countries throughout the Americas, Spain and Equatorial Guinea. I also speak Spanish and it has helped me so much with my travels across Latin America.
And how can I not mention Chinese (specifically Mandarin), the most spoken language in the world, spoken across various countries outside of China.
But with all of that said, taking the time to learn words of ANY language will always be a benefit and will enrich your traveling experiences, and the locals will always appreciate it.
Professional Background
How long have you been in your current position?
I have been working in financial consulting for seven years, doing various roles.
Did you ever feel unsure of your career path?
Ha, all the time.
I somewhat fell into this career path, but I have never shied away from opportunities to progress and grow
Whilst I may not know exactly where my career path will take me in the next few years, I am certain that I will always do what I believe is right for me to continue to develop both personally and professionally.
Do your future career goals involve living abroad or traveling for work?
I have always wanted to live abroad but never found the right conditions to do so. I am always open to moving abroad for my career.
On Lifestyle
Why do you enjoy traveling?
Since I was a child I have always been fascinated by the world and the many different cultures, but growing up I never had the opportunity to travel as it just wasn’t something my family could afford nor were interested in doing.
In my mid-twenties I finally made it a priority to travel once I had the courage to take that first solo trip, and I’ve had the travel bug ever since
Traveling allows me to truly experience what it means to be human.
Lots of people think traveling is cool, but not something they can see themselves doing. What are the characteristics of a traveler or person who would enjoy living abroad, in your opinion?
A traveler should be curious, easy-going, willing to embrace the unknown and emotionally intelligent. These may not be your strongest qualities now, but with time and experience they will be tested, and traveling will change you for the better.
Has traveling changed the way you view the world? If yes, how so?
Absolutely, because of traveling I have evolved as a more open, friendlier, curious and confident person. I have become a lover of nature. I have become a better planner and most importantly I have learnt to truly appreciate the present and give all in my relationships, no matter how fleeting.
One last question
What advice would you give to a young person who knows they want to travel but aren’t sure where that fits in with the rest of their lives?
Aside from respecting the country that you’re visiting, there is absolutely no right or wrong way to travel. I would say that people should find what else they are passionate about and incorporate it into their travels. I didn’t quit my job in order to see the world, I manage to travel around my work commitments. Don’t compare where you are in our life with others, do what you can and enjoy it.
Editor’s note: This interview has been lightly edited for concision and clarity.
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If you enjoyed Adama’s story, she invites you to get to know her more on the following platforms:
Instagram: @maverickgoddess
Website: http://maverickgoddess.wordpress.com/
Thank you for reading Fearless Friday No. 8 – Adama from Maverick Goddess! Fearless Friday Features are posted every Friday evening France time. If you have any follow-up questions or comments about the feature, please feel free to leave them below. Until next time – a bientôt !
