international
the
ISSN 2596-5220
PULLED PORK IS HERE TO STAY
HOW TO THRIVE IN DANISH WINTER
TAKE AN OYSTER TOUR IN DENMARK
CELEBRATE OUR 2ND BIRTHDAY WITH US!
JANUARY 2020 - THE-INTL.COM
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
FREE
PAPER
FOUNDER OF CJ-LONDON - CLAIRE ROSS-BROWN JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
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HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY! WE NOT ONLY CELEBRATE THE START OF A NEW YEAR, BUT WE ALSO CELEBRATE OUR OWN MILESTONE AT THE INTERNATIONAL. AS WE TURN TWO YEARS OLD I'D LIKE TO THANK OUR GREAT TEAM WHO BRING US A BRILLIANT ISSUE EVERY MONTH, BUT ALSO TO OUR READERS WHO SUPPORT US. TUSIND TAK!
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NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS are always at the back of my mind as I start another year - almost like a do-over. Internationals face a lot of new challenges as you have so many things to adapt to, this can take three years or twenty depending on the individual - and that's okay, take your time! The most important thing to remember is to come together, focusing on the individual qualities that we bring with us from different countries. We are after all human beings - we are not defined by where we are from, humanity connects us all. There are many ways of stunting your growth in a new country. Harping on negative experiences is one of these, and when we hold on to pain and self-doubt, we can’t move on to something more positive. Nothing is more positive than moving into a new year, with a new reboot to get you started again. Here are six important tips to get you started for the new year:
#1 Learn to express yourself. Don’t hesitate to get the pain you’re feeling off your chest. Don't bottle feelings up, make a clean sweep of it! Venting to a friend or writing it down, expressing your feelings can assist you in sorting out what, if anything, needs to be done to move on.
#2 Keep the focus on the present. One of the most effective ways to let go of the past is to embrace the present. Instead
from the situation by distancing yourself from the people, places and things that remind you of the past. Practicing ways to disconnect for a while will give you the chance to experience something positive - no matter how insignificant it feels.
#5 Plus people vs. minus people.
of reliving the past and getting consumed with negativity, keep yourself active and enjoy the current moment you're in. Learn a new skill, meditate, exercise, make a new friend. Whatever it is, get out of your comfort zone and just live in the moment.
#3 Own it. Playing the role of the victim is so much easier to do and can feel pretty good, especially compared with accepting the truth and taking responsibility. The problem is, blaming the situation you're in prevents you from going forward.
My top picks for January
Take inventory of the people around you. Who is negative and always bringing you down? Who are the energy vampires? You may need to move away from these individuals to find more positive people who will empower you. There are so many ways to meet new people, such as attending local meetups and social events. Don’t be shy. Get yourself out there and find a new group of friends and acquaintances who can help you move forward.
Pages 10-13
Fashion savy Claire Ross-Brown introduces her new fashion brand
Pages 4-9
Events around Denmark, so much to do and so little time! Remember to diarise our birthday event!
Page 16
#6 Making new memories.
Bailey gives some great tips about surviving the winter blues
Finally, start making new, positive memories to replace those negative memories from the past. Spend your time with the people who make you happy, the things that bring you joy, and in the places that bring you peace.
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Get a culture shot from Esbjerg!
New team members
Conrad Egbert joins our team as the new opinion piece writer. We look forward to seeing life through his eyes (pg 3).
Cheers to all of you!
#4 Disconnect for a while.
Love,
Allow yourself some time away so that you can clear your head. Often we make excuses for family, work etc. Just remove yourself
LYNDSAY JENSEN - EDITOR & FOUNDER
Narcis Matache will be guiding us through information on the political side of Denmark (pg 17).
THE-INTL.COM
MEET THE TEAM CAR DISTRIBUTION (SEALAND) CONNOR is taking a gap year before continuing his studies in education. Born in South Africa and moving to Denmark at a young age, he realtes to internationl life. He enjoys meeting new cultures, music and hanging out with friends.
EDITOR & FOUNDER LYNDSAY JENSEN has twenty years' experience in the advertising and publishing industry, and holds degrees in Business and Desktop Publishing (print and repro). Born in the UK, and brought up in South Africa, she has the ability to understand different cultures, and is passionate about networking. She is a wife of twenty two years and mother to two boys aged 21 and 15. She loves travel, photography and art. lyndsay@the-intl.com
MANAGING DIRECTOR & PARTNER KENNETH MACALPINE is a Nordic Financial Manager in the Transport industry. His degree is in Finance and business obtained in the UK. Born in Norway he moved to Denmark at the age of 22. He is of Danish Scottish ancestry and lives in southern Denmark with his large multi-national family consisting of Danish, Irish and Brazilian heritage. He is always interested in new challenges and loves to live life to the fullest. kenneth@the-intl.com
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
SALES For advertising sales, please contact: sales@the-intl.com CONTACT The International ApS; +45 42676745 PRINT
Provins-Trykkeriet ApS, Vordingborg
BICYCLE DISTRIBUTION (COPENHAGEN)
COVER PICTURE
CAMILA is from Argentina. She's a free spirit who decided
Jakob Kirk Von Lotzbeck
to leave her tourism job to explore the world. Landing in Copenhagen, she's exploring the city and taking on the Danish cold weather. See you around the city!
HEAD INTERN FOR SOCIAL MEDIA (COPENHAGEN) LARA is from Zagreb, Croatia. She lives in Copenhagen and is studying Constructing Architecture at KEA. She enjoys interior design, architecture, literature, and photography.
INTERN FOR SOCIAL MEDIA (AARHUS) CATHY is from Estonian who just recently moved to Aarhus. She worked with EU policy topics at the European Parliament for almost 2 years before moving. Her passions include digital marketing and photography.
DISTRIBUTION
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For home or corporate delivery of the printed edition please contact: distribution@the-intl.com The International is published 12 times a year. This issue was published on January 2, 2020
CVR:
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WHY DENMARK’S ‘WORST’ MONTH
IS MY FAVOURITE
OPINION
PIECE
CONRAD EGBERT
COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIST
Conrad has 20 years’ experience as a journalist and editor. He is also an aspiring author
NO, I’M NOT A SADOMASOCHIST WHO ENJOYS FROZEN FINGERS OR NIGHTFALL IN THE AFTERNOON. IN FACT, I LOVE NOTHING MORE THAN STRIPPING DOWN AND DASHING OFF TO THE CLOSEST BOARDWALK WHEN THE SUN COMES OUT. BUT I ALSO DO LOVE TO HYGGE, AND JANUARY IS THE IDEAL MONTH TO DO THIS.
on the hunt for a suitable publisher. He moved to Copenhagen from France in 2019 and loves to schmooze; he believes a good chat is far more healing than homeopathy. He’s of
W
PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO
WHEN WE FIRST moved
to Copenhagen in July last year, most people we met warned us about the impending ‘difficult winter’ with special attention to January. I was told it would test my newfound love of all things Danish. But then a friend, who previously lived here, presented me with Meik Wiking’s The Little Book of Hygge, and it gave me an entirely new perspective on Danish culture, perhaps even on life in general. In darkness, the Danes find light. Whether it’s lighting a candle, setting fire to their imagination with a good book or having enlightened conversations in the company of close friends, one thing is clear – the darkness will not prevail. It’s a beautiful philosophy and one that many of us, who come from sunnier climes, take for granted. So in keeping with that spirit, January for me is going to be about positivity and cherishing those special friends and family who give meaning to our lives. And since we’re in the season of giving, I’ve chosen to share my humble list of things to help you through January; they work best with good company. A few of them you'd have done already, a few not and some probably never. I, for one, am going to do them all, for a lyseslukker (spoilsport) I am not!
#1 SKINNY-DIPPING I know this sounds nuts to most of us, but the health benefits are incredible. Immersing yourself in freezing cold water boosts your immune system (i.e. increases the production of those infectious-disease-fighting white blood cells), propels your ‘happiness’ endorphins to intoxicating levels, improves blood circulation by forcing the heart to pump more vigorously and even boosts your hormones and finally, burns more calories than if
TEXT CONRAD EGBERT
mixed Indian and English heritage and has worked across the Middle East, India and Eu-
you were to swim in normal water. Basically, if you want to ditch the binge drinking and get high on a cocktail of natural biological serums, take a dip in the winter sea. (Note: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you must seek medical advice before attempting this.)
rope. Earth is currently home and he considers himself a citizen of it. In winter, he loves coffee, croissants, candles and gin, but come summer,
#2 ICE SKATING AT FREDERIKSBERG RUNDDEL
hawkers in Free-town Christi-
If you don’t know how to ice-skate, there’s no better time than now to unleash that figure skater in you. According to Visit Copenhagen, skating at this venue is free if you own skates, and it’s open round the clock. You can also rent a pair of skates for 50 DKK or have your own sharpened for 70 DKK. Keep warm!
ana are reduced to tears with
#3 BOARD GAME BAR HOP When I was a child, I remember my mother always being armed with a double deck of French-suited playing cards and on some evenings, while we waited for my father to return home from work for dinner, she'd persuade my brother and I into a few rounds of Rummy and then onto some board games. Best times ever! Copenhagen is a treasure trove in this regard; the city is dotted with game-friendly bars where a hygge time is just waiting to be had. Anyone up for a board game pub hop?
#4 LEAVE THE FAIRY LIGHTS ON One of the main reasons Christmas is a favourite time of year is mostly due to my obsession with mood lighting. So, by all means, take down your Christmas decorations, but leave those happy sparkles on. It makes a world of difference.
his intrepid bargaining. He’s friendly and funny and cooks a mean curry. You can catch him at embassy parties or stirring up controversy at various hyggelig watering holes around the city. He’ll be your friend if you have a light. egbertconrad@gmail.com @kingegbert @egbertconrad Conrad Egbert www.linkedin.com/in/ conradegbert
Have a wonderful New Year and a hyggelig January! THE-INTL
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
SKAGEN
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TURIST NORD - VISIT DENMARK
THE COPING IN CPH CREW FROM LEFT: MARIUS, WILL AND OWEN
IN JANUARY
ODENSE
COPING IN COPENHAGEN
9 JANUARY
10 JANUARY
WINTER BATHING
GREEN FOOD TOUR
OWEN SAVAGE
In the mood for a revitalising cold thrill? Join the bathers from The Icebreaker winter bathing club, who will guide you safely through winter bathing in Skagen. They will take you through a history of winter bathing and how it affects the body and well-being.
The idea behind the green food tour is to enjoy food from several different places on a single night, without the trouble of doing any planning - you leave that to us. The ticket includes all the food and drink that is served, transport in the city and all the surprises that we have up our sleeves. You will not go home hungry! A great opportunity to meet new people and hopefully gain new knowledge of what vegan food is all about. We will visit approximately 9 different restaurants with food from several corners of the world during our journey together.
Owen is an intern from Crossing Borders and will be joining us on air this month. Crossing Borders is a nonprofit, civil society organisation. Its main purpose is to educate and empower young people to become active global citizens.
TIME: 10:00 - 11:00 ADDRESS: PROMENADEN ØSTRE STRANDVEJ / OPPOSITE LOCHERSVEJ PRICE: 60 DKK PER PERSON FOR MORE INFO: REGISTRATION NO LATER THAN THE DAY BEFORE - 15:30 AT WWW.SKAGENSHOPPEN.DK/ EVENTS/466-PROEVVINTERBADNINGISKAGEN.HTML
CLAIRE ROSS-BROWN This month Owen and Marius are interviewing Britishborn actress and businesswoman Claire Ross-Brown. Having acted in Klovn, a widely popular Danish Sitcom, she has become a household name with Danes and well as expats. Based in Copenhagen for the past 20 years, she is now launching a new fashion brand CJ-London. Discover this interesting personality, and find out what she's achieved since moving to Denmark.
TIME: 15:00 - 21:00 ADDRESS: COFFEE & EAT; KONGENSGADE 2B, 5000 ODENSE PRICE: 300 DKK FOR MORE INFO: WWW.GREENTRAVELBUREAU.COM/PRODUCT/GREEN-TOUR-OF-ODENSE-TEST-RUN/
MYSTERY GUEST Stay tuned to find out who it is!
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MYSTERY
GUEST
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TO LISTEN TO THE COPING IN COPENHAGEN PODCAST, VISIT THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE: THE CIC SHOW PODCAST OR SEARCH FOR THEM ON SPOTIFY
H i g h Acad em i c S t an d ar d s C h ri st i an E t ho s C onv en i en t l y l o c at ed i n H el l er u p
rygaards.com JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
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ESBJERG
WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS
ROSKILDE
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AARHUS
10 JANUARY
11 JANUARY
12 JANUARY
COSMIC RAVE
TWIST AND DETOX
Welcome to the future! We are celebrating with a futuristic space theme. At B.T.A., we simply love outer space. Expect good vibes, spacy art and electronic music that is out of this world. Our astronauts for the evening are D E: Z O - (Beats & Beats); Dovydas Noidea - (Aarhus Techno District); DJ Karmacat - (FEUM); Wabi-Sabi - (Before The Afterparty).
After a lot of partying during the holidays, it is time to cleanse and detox the body. Join us for a yoga workshop, where the focus will be on twisting and rotating the body and restoring more flow and movement. The exercises stimulate your muscles, connective tissue, and internal organs, allowing toxins to be released. You will feel lighter and more serene in body, mind and soul.
FROZEN 2: CHILDRENS FILM IN ENGLISH AT THE CINEMA
TIME: 23:00 - 05:00 ADDRESS: BEFORE THE AFTER PARTY; VESTERGADE 58, 8000 AARHUS PRICE: 50 DKK DRESS CODE: COME AS YOU ARE - BUT IF YOU LOVE THE COSMIC THEME AS MUCH AS WE DO, THEN WE RECOMMEND TO EMBRACE YOUR INNER SPACE TRAVELLER OR ALIEN.
TIME: 13:30 - 15:30 ADDRESS: HEY NAMASTE - YOGA OG MASSAGE; METALVEJ 7A; 4000 ROSKILDE PRICE: 350 DKK FOR MORE INFO: WWW.SYSTEM.EASYPRACTICE.NET/EVENT/ TWIST-OG-DETOX-FB127?FBCLID=IWAR0K1GRFJG12OIM11I FH5I8IA_LGD9TYW9XTOCCOGPYMZDKJVDFPU7KT7ZU
Non-synchronised English children's film at the cinema for all our internationals to take their English-speaking children to. Tickets for purchase online at www.nfbio.dk one week before the show or at the entrance.
TIME: 14:00 - 16:00 ADDRESS: NORDISK FILM BIOGRAFER ESBJERG; EXNERSGADE; 6700 ESBJERG FOR MORE INFO: HTTPS://WWW.NFBIO.DK/?FBCLID=IW AR2CAT9HY44HFRDFFK96UZGFVFDLBAXL-EGSTZUUNQHYGLLJLXMWGDXE5V8
Speak Hellerup Bernstorffsvej 20C 2900 Hellerup Speak Lyngby Klampenborgvej 221 2800 Kgs. Lyngby
hello@speakspeak.dk +45 3946 3050
speakspeak.dk
Learning Danish is expanding your horizon
Speak Frederiksberg Lindevangs Allé 8-12 2000 Frederiksberg
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AALBORG
NÆSTVED
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ODENSE
14 JANUARY
16 JANUARY
17 JANUARY
BOOTCAMP
GRADUATING SOON? WHAT NOW?
GAMES CAFÉ
8 WEEKS INTENSIVE BOOT CAMP! There are three different types of teams for you to choose from: Get Slim / Get Fit /Get Strong
Need to end the week with a good laugh? Come along and have fun in this year's first games café. As usual, there is free soda and chips for those the attend. Great idea for internationals to mix with Danes to improve their language skills!
Are you graduating soon and wondering about your next step? Then join us and learn everything you need to know about graduating, job-seeking, and unemployment funds after graduation. You can bring your printed CV and get feedback from professional career consultants at the event.
Everyone can participate, and you don't need to be in good shape or have any training experience. The courses also include: - Training twice a week for 55 minutes per session. - Physical test at the beginning and end of your 8 weeks. - Bootcamp meeting the week before the team starts. - Access to a private Facebook group with your teammates. - A trainer will be available online throughout the course for advice. - Team of six participants.
TIME: 14:00 - 16:00 ADDRESS: NÆSTVED HANDELSGYMNASIUM ZBC; HANDELSSKOLEVEJ 3; 4700 NÆSTVED
Don't forget to sign up for FREE right here: www.businessaalborg.nemtilmeld.dk/330/ DEADLINE FOR SIGN-UP IS 14 JANUARY 20:00 This event is organized by UCN, AAU, and International House North Denmark.
TIME: 14:00 - 17:00 ADDRESS: UCN, HOBROVEJ 85, 9000 AALBORG FOR MORE INFO: WWW.BUSINESSAALBORG.NEMTILMELD. DK/330/?FBCLID=IWAR0RERJO9-SHASON3E-CB8ZDOGN31ITAJZNFVWVVYD89YVMVCCIHCAT8DE4
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TRAINING STARTS: 08:00 - 08:30 ADDRESS: ODENSE SPORTSCENTRUM; THORSLUNDSVEJ 2B; 5000 ODENSE FOR MORE INFO & PRICES: WWW.FITMEDALLAN.DK/ODENSE-CA MPS/?FBCLID=IWAR3QIEMHQENVVWDXUZZJJAKZZUO21D9FTC MJL4RLP39CM6JHE7TNXJGSC0A
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18 JANUARY ART JOURNALING WORKSHOP Are you crazy about paper? Maybe 2020 is your year to treat yourself by making your very own creative diary? Attend this course and learn how to make a unique hand-bound book, and be inspired by others around you with the same creative passion.
TIME: 10:30 - 17:30 ADDRESS: NØRREGADE 63, 7100 VEJLE PRICE: 750 DKK (THIS INCLUDES MATERIALS AND CATERING) FOR MORE INFO AND TO RESERVE A PLACE: EMAIL: mitkrearum@gmail.com/ OR SEND AND SMS: 28574323 OR FOLLOW OUR LINK: HTTP://MITKREARUM.DK/WORKSHOPS/?FBCLID=IWAR2SXBB7P6ENIG5GTHPDVNGWU0MC 6DU-KHNTJ8XLXC1YLBYX10OI9ORCHK0
A focus on learning
COPENHAGEN
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I nternational S chool for students ages 3–16 18 JANUARY DISCO FUNK NIGHT Disco Funk Nights at the Kayak Bar is where like-minded people who love funk and disco meet, have a few drinks, and give it their all on the dance floor. The music selection is primarily from the '70s and 80's - so time to get your disco on. After working up a sweat on the dance floor, you can enjoy some cooldown time with a nice meal shared with friends.
TIME: 19:00 - 02:00 ADDRESS: BØRSKAJ, 1221 COPENHAGEN K FOR MORE INFO ON THE MEAL AND ENTRY: WWW.KAYAKBAR.CHECKFRONT.COM/ RESERVE/?ITEM_ID=71
nis-ngg.dk Phone: +45 45 57 26 16 Email: nis@ngg.dk Cirkelhuset, Christianshusvej 16 DK, 2970 Hørsholm
Cambridge International School
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COPENHAGEN
ESBJERG
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VEJLE
18 JANUARY
20 JANUARY
24 JANUARY
MANDALA COLOURING AND MEDITATION
FARMACY - VEGAN SOAP WORKSHOP
COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS
The act of meditative colouring, combined with carefully chosen subjects (drawings), will create a powerful calming experience for participants.
A beginner’s introduction to the traditional method of cold process soap making and Organic cosmetic making, this workshop is four hours long. The demonstrations in this workshop will give you the confidence (and the comprehensive notes) to start making your own soaps with equipment you probably already have at home. Making soap is a very interesting process as it requires a little chemical knowledge along; however, in this workshop, we make it easy for you to learn, adapt and inspire yourself throughout your soap making journey. You will also create a hand and body lotion, which also teaches you some very simple science enabling you to explore a new world of domestic chemistry after the event. All ingredients used are organic, biodynamic, and zero waste! You will take home two soaps that you have decorated yourself, a full set of soap making notes, tips, tricks, and chemical advice plus a Littlepinkmaker soap making goodie bag. You will also take home a container of handmade organic and biodynamic body cream made to your preference also.
These benefits include: - Lift inner energy level. - Calms the body and mind. - And many other benefits that you will discover during our Mandala event. The session will end with relaxation meditation, guided by Eva Millere. You don't need prior knowledge to attend the event. You are invited to bring your yoga matt and some coloured pencils, but it is not a necessity.
TIME: 14:00 - 16:00 ADDRESS: FORENINGERNES HUS VEJLE; VISSINGSGADE 31, 1 SAL GÅRDEN, 7100 VEJLE FOR MORE INFO AND TO RESERVE A PLACE: WWW.VEJLEEXPATNETWORK.NEMTILMELD.DK/?FBCLID=IWAR3V BFMUTKZALWVDWJMB52TUR0MUYJNDGWB_C5HUVRI4LOUCT1VZCLZJTVI
For the man or woman who loves to enjoy life, laugh, and drink cocktails - why not try out this Cocktail Masterclass in January. Dennis Nielsen will be at the helm with a line up of fantastic cocktails. They make 'adult cocktails' that will dress up any party. Dennis teaches and entertains you while serving tapas and five luxurious cocktails. There will be recipe cards for all the cocktails made and lots of fun tips and ideas. There are limited spaces, so booking is essential. You can purchase your ticket in the cafe or by sending an email to ea@rankinpark.dk
TIME: 19:00 - 22:00 PRICE: 450 DKK (INCLUDES COCKTAILS, RECIPE CARDS AND TAPAS SNACKS) ADDRESS: RANKIN PARK CAFE; SKOLEGADE 43, 6700 ESBJERG
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TIME: 10:00 OR 13:00 PRICE: 450 DKK FOR MORE INFO: WWW.LITTLEPINKMAKER.COM/WORKSHOPS/ FARMACY
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26 JANUARY
28 JANUARY
31 JANUARY
WINTER RUN
YOGA FOR MEN
The first winter race of the year will start at Ceres Park, and the route ends at Aarhus Stadium. The routes pass by the beautiful area around the Marselisborg forests and along the beautiful coastline. The race concludes with a delicious snack that you receive when you finish.
Yoga for men is based on the men's movement and men's strength. The teaching is organized according to the individual, and the purpose is to provide better mobility and reduce pain - especially in the back and shoulders. There are no pre-requisites for participating, everyone can join.
COME AND CELEBRATE OUR 2ND BIRTHDAY WITH US!
ROUTES The 5km route offers a mix of asphalt and wide forest paths around Havreballe Forest with a detour down Strandvejen. The routes are certified by a surveyor from the Danish Athletics Association. The Ceres Park Trail route is not DAF certified.
The International is growing, and we are two years old this year! We will be rolling out birthday events around the country throughout the year, so we can get to visit a lot more of our readers and followers. Our first event will be at International Headquarters - a fantastic coworking space that we share with other like-minded international companies, housed under the Symbion business brand. So, please come out and say hello, grab a free copy of the latest issue, and meet some of our Copenhagen team members. Keep an eye on our SoMe and website as we announce new birthday events throughout the year!
What does it improve: - Stronger core - Increased mobility - Better motor skills - Better attitude - Better concentration - Well-being
T-SHIRT AND START NUMBER If you sign up for all four winter races, you will receive a lovely Winter Running T-shirt with all four numbers. NOTE: If you sign up for all 4 races of multiple rounds, you must register via the same profile and participant name to receive the T-shirt. There is a T-shirt for the first 1250, which is registered for all 4 winter races.
TIME: 15:30 - 19:00 ADDRESS: SYMBION, CO WORKING; FRUEBJERGVEJ 3; 2100 COPENHAGEN Ø PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE A CASH BAR
TIME: 19:30 - 20:45 ADDRESS: PILATES AALBORG; HASSERISGAARD, SKELAGERVEJ 375A-B; 9000 AALBORG FOR MORE INFO: WWW.PILATES-AALBORG.DK/SHOP/FOKUSFORLOEB/YOGA-FOR-MAEND.ASPX?FBCLID=IWAR0N8OMI1U5N XYOJKOKGXKLO-KXFHQ8JMGUCK_O725Q_FFRUV3MOAVJKNVK
CÉLINE MARTIN-PEDERSEN
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TIME: 10:00 ADDRESS: STADION ALLÉ 70, 8000 AARHUS C FOR MORE INFO: WWW.AARHUSMOTION.DK/EVENT/VINTERLOEBET-CERES?FBCLID=IWAR1YLZAMX6FB-R7LCTBH26DSOARFPU9MAV-CILUTITGINR64S_49NUIQCL4
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FASHION SAVY CLAIRE ROSS-BROWN TALKING FASHION WITH CLAIRE, HER NEW FASHION BRAND CJ-LONDON, AND SUSTAINABLE FASHION.
BRITISH-BORN ACTRESS AND BUSINESSWOMAN CLAIRE ROSS-BROWN IS A BRAND NAME IN THE DANISH ENTERTAINMENT SCENE, HAVING ACTED IN AMONG OTHERS KLOVN, A WIDELY POPULAR DANISH SITCOM. NOW LIVING IN COPENHAGEN FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS, CLAIRE HAS TAKEN ON THE NEW MANTEL OF FASHION DESIGNER AND ENTREPRENEUR, A PROCESS SHE SAYS CAME ORGANICALLY.
PHOTOGRAPHS JAKOB KIRK VON LOTZBECK
MAKE-UP WWW.TAKECARELS.DK
CLAIRE PASSITONATELY SHARES her story with us. “Fashion has been something that I have always been interested in. I feel that the older I become as a woman, the more confident I am in my own body, and the more aware I am of the type of fashion that suits my personality." Claire reveals. In the age of sustainable fashion revolution, Claire has taken on the challenge of making her fashion label CJ-London, an inclusive, luxurious, and environmental conscious label centering on the timeless classics of ‘the little black dress.’ There is a lot to latch on when it comes to Claire's business acumen and fashion appeal. Consider she looks half her age yet understands that beauty is not a monolith; it is segmented by body shape, personality, culture, or personal belief. The 47-year-old has amassed a thriving career in the entertainment and corporate industry, both in the UK and Denmark. “It has taken me many years to build up the network that I have in Denmark. The great
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TEXT JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN
thing about starting my own womenswear clothing line, CJ-London, is that I feel like my whole network, built over 20 years, is coming together in a very great way, says Claire. CJ-London inception begun in March 2019 and will launch before Christmas 2019. Such a fete though seemingly insurmountable, within such a timeframe, is not improbable for determined, driven, and highly structured Claire.
MOVING INTO SUSTAINABLE FASHION SOLUTIONS WITH A PASSION One often hears, why does a woman stand before a wardrobe full of clothes, yet moan that she doesn’t have anything to wear? The age-old phenomenon continues to frustrate the modern woman, who today spoilt for choice by fast fashion finds herself either recycling the same clothes or continuously buying new ones, trapped in an endless cycle of consumerism. Environmentally speaking, there is an agency to make a lifestyle change
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"CHANGE IS GOOD; IT NOT ONLY PUSHES YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE BUT ALSO GRANTS YOU MORE EXPERIENCE, FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY." at an individual level: Either through diet change, reduced plastic consumption, using public transport/cycling, or lowering your clothing carbon footprint. Speaking of sustainability, Claire admits that the idea of making her own clothesline comes from years of being a big spender on clothes, but slowly realising that her consumerist choices are part of the collective contribution to climate change crisis. “At my age, I am thinking to myself, do I really need more clothes, or is this something I can do without?” she says. CJ-London’s sustainability approach is her way of practicing what she preaches: buy less, choose a quality fabric, be less wasteful, and let the garments serve you for many years to come. Her ambitions for CJ-London womenswear is driven by the belief that she too can make the world a better place. She is using innovative and sustainable stretch fabric, designed to accentuate every female body in an inclusive and empowering way. “The goal of CJ-London womenswear is to let every woman, regardless of her size or age, feel that she’s the best version of herself,” Claire says this of body positivity. CJ-London’s fashion line DNA is a ‘timeless classics black wardrobe on the go.’ “I want CJ-London to be the basic black in your wardrobe that you can mix and match with your other favourite clothes, but you know it will always be classy. My concept was to develop something you could keep, and in 20 years, you are still going to wear that piece of clothing, and it will still be in fashion!” To emphasis this commitment, CJ-
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London’s tagline is - timeless classics in an ever-changing world.
CHALLENGING NORMS AND BREAKING OUT OF COMFORT ZONES The fashion business is challenging, saturated with competition, and ever-fluctuating market demand. Launching a clothing line with no background in design or clothing business hasn’t stopped Claire from actualising her vision. “I had people asking me, ‘are you crazy coming into the fashion business; it is one of the toughest industries!’, and my answer to that would be ‘you tell me, what industry today is not difficult?” Over the years, Claire has lived by her mother’s ‘you can do whatever you want to do’ mantra. Be it by pursuing a career in the banking industry to putting herself in positions others would have considered daunting: Like in her role as an actress in a Danish sitcom, in Danish, or heading a Danish Fintech company, with little knowledge of the Fintech industry. Claire believes that change is good; it not only pushes you out of your comfort zone but also grants you more experience, flexibility, and adaptability. She understands that people will always try to put you in a box for which they think you belong, her way around this conundrum is finding the right people to support her goals and strategies. “You need to have people that can give you their expert knowledge. With CJ-London, it was finding a team of people that could back me up.” She reveals, among key competent people are a silent partner and her husband,
Morten, a management consultant, who have been instrumental in getting CJ-London off the ground. Starting a business in Denmark can be a tricky venture for people who have no idea how to run one. “I have a good idea of running a business. In some ways, CJ-London was a very natural thing for me to do. I felt there was no learning there, except to understand how the fashion industry works and getting up to speed with understanding the terminology,” she says, pointing out she has always had a strong intuition and idea of what is right for CJ-London.
CJ-LONDON IS AN IDEA WHOSE TIME HAS COME “There is no way I would have launched CJLondon in my 20’s. I believe there’s something great that comes with age, in that you take all your experiences and learnings and use them to pursue your convictions,” she says on her strong personal validation to take on new challenges. Although her CJ-London womenswear line is heavily influenced by her personal taste and 20plus years of experimenting with different clothes, its futuristic approach is inspired by the younger generation and the fashion choices of their time. “I have had much help from the younger generation because I feel they are very inspirational; they are aware of climate change, what sustainability looks for themselves going forward, and they are the voices of their future. It is important to listen to their needs,” she says.
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She is not alone in thinking about sustainable textile innovations. The internet, social media, is awash with online movements championed by young people who are also becoming aware of the sustainability challenges of the fashion industry and are more empowered to pursue eco-friendly fashion solutions. “This isn’t about preaching that one should be vegan or vegetarian; one should feel they have the choice to do what they want. For me, it is about making better choices going forward, both for the environment and because I learnt about how leather is made. I had never realised how chemically toxic it is for the people working with leather or how many injuries are involved in the process.” One of CJ-London’s star production is an elegant tote bag is made of vegan leather. As for skirting the line between luxury wear and sustainability? Part of the dilemma, she admits, is making a product that’s 100 percent sustainable at a time when it is part of an ever-changing repertoire market. “Making everyone happy (with a product that ticks all the eco-friendly boxes) is difficult. I figured I could start off small. Do what I can, and as science develops, there will be more options.” At the time of writing, Claire is in Portugal visiting a family-run factory that will do the full-on production of CJ-London clothes and accessories. It is not surprising that Claire would choose this social responsibility route. Guess it is the honesty and integrity that drew her here. She insists that the soul of CJ-London is grounded on these same values, a fact that she aims to transfer into every product. A decision driven by what she believes is the need for people to feel and recognise the transparency of the CJ-London brand. THE-INTL CJ-London can be purchased online at www.cj-london.com or make an app o i nt m e nt t o v i s i t t h e i r C h a r l o tt e n l u n d s h ow r o o m o n : + 4 5 9 2 9 0 9 4 0 6 Follow CJ-London on SoMe: @cjlondonfashion
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DISTRICT HEATING
IN DENMARK
GLOBAL-LEADING ENERGY EFFICIENCY!
PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO
TEXT MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES
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DENMARK’S DISTRICT HEATING systems are a cornerstone of its green and efficient energy. It is not only a sound and reliable heating supply but also greatly supports Denmark in maintaining a sustainable energy sector and in fulfilling its longterm energy policy targets. Statistics from 2014 show that 63% of all private Danish houses were connected to district heating already then – not only for space heating but also for domestic hot water. Denmark had six large central district heating areas with a total heating supply of 67 petajoules in 2014, which at that time was 56 % of the national district heating supply. There are also now more than 400 small and medium-sized district heating areas with an annual heating supply well beyond the output of the 2014 six large areas. In order to distribute the heating within buildings, most heating consumers have water-based heating systems - radiators or floor heating systems. New buildings have heating systems with relatively large heating transfer surfaces, which allow for lower temperatures in the district heating network.
PRESIDENT & CEO BOSS CERTIFICATION OXFORD BUSINESS SERVICES
DISTRICT HEATING PRODUCTION
Mariano has over 30 years'
Production of district heating is mainly from Combined Heat and Power plants or Heat Only Boiler units. Heat and power generated using Combined Heat and Power have a significantly higher efficiency than heat and power generated separately. Typically, a Heat Only Boiler has an efficiency of around 90-95%, whereas a condensing power plant generating electricity only has an efficiency of 40-50%. A Combined Heat and Power plant may have a total efficiency of 85-93% resulting in an overall fuel saving of approximately 30% compared to separate production of heating and electricity. In general, large-scale Combined Heat and Power units are located in large urban areas. In contrast, small-scale Combined Heat and Power units and district heating Heat Only Boilers tend to be located in smaller cities and villages.
FROM FOSSIL FUELS TO BIOMASS, WASTE AND SOLAR The fuels used for heating production at Heat Only Boilers and Combined Heat and Power plants can be fired with both fossil fuel (such as coal, oil and natural gas) and non-fossil fuel (such as biomass, waste and solar energy). Biomass has been part of Denmark’s energy profile for many years. The energy crises in the 1970s compelled Denmark to rethink its use of energy, which at that time was dominated by the use of imported oil. Currently, Denmark is striving to create an energy system that is independent of fossil fuels by 2050, and biomass combustion is expected to be an important factor in this transition. Waste-to-Energy is generally considered to be an “energy resource” rather than a problem to be eradicated. Almost all waste, if not recycled, is used for energy production, and only a minor fraction of the waste is deposited in a landfill. Consequently, waste-to-energy is one of the corner stones in Danish waste management systems and benefits both energy consumers and the environment. Solar heating in Denmark started in the early 1980s with individual domestic installations of 8-10 m2 in general. By 2005, it was estimated that approximately 40,000 individual domestic systems had been installed and since then various financial
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MARIANO ANTHONY DAVIES
global experience as a business executive. He spent ten years with KPMG, twenty-one years with British Chambers of Commerce (while also running his own companies) and now BOSS Certification. He is a British citizen, who grew support schemes have escalated the number of domestic solar heating installations. Before 2005, there were few solar heating plants in district heating systems. However, the technological development in solar heating combined with a change in regulatory setup for small-scale Combined Heating and Power plants started the development of solar heating specifically for district heating production. Today, Denmark is among the world-leading countries within the field of integrating large-scale solar heating into district heating systems. The number of solar heating plants larger than 1,000 m2 in Denmark has increased significantly. This is due to solar heating technology becoming cheaper and, therefore, a more viable alternative to natural gas during the summer. Denmark has become a leading country within district heating and has developed a dedicated district heating industry with world-leading technologies and insights in establishing cost and energy-efficient high-quality district heating systems. THE-INTL
CURRENTLY, DENMARK IS STRIVING TO CREATE AN ENERGY SYSTEM THAT IS INDEPENDENT OF FOSSIL FUELS BY 2050.
up in Kent, went to boarding school in Sussex and has a British university education. He has been married to a Dane for over 43 years and has held over 100 official anti-Brexit speeches. He both speaks and writes Danish without difficulty. www.boss-register.com www.oxford-business.com
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NORTH ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HOSTS
STUDENT TOP AWARDS NIGHT On Thursday, 5th December, North Zealand International School (NIS) held its certificate evening for the class of 2019. One student, in particular, Shruti Anand from India, distinguished herself by achieving a Top in the World award from Cambridge, in Mathematics.
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PHOTOGRAPHS NORTH ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
TEXT
NORTH ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
that provides access to further secondary education, either in Denmark or abroad. The diploma is part of Cambridge, a program that sets a global standard for international education. Each year about 1 million students sit the IGCSE exams, providing access to international education. More than 10,000 schools across 160 countries participate in the Cambridge program, which, in addition to providing students with an internationally recognized diploma, aims to develop students' curiosity and passion for learning.
THE BANQUET HALL at Rungstedgaard was filled to the brim as North Zealand International School celebrated the achievements of the class of 2019 with the presentation of their IGCSE Certificates (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). “Each year, we hold a ceremony for graduating students to celebrate the completion of their IGCSEs. This year, however, we wanted to make more out the evening, which is why we have chosen to hold the ceremony as a larger event,” says Head of School, Karen Bøttger.
ABOUT NORTH ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (NIS)
INTERNATIONAL TOP PERFORMANCE
This year, however, there was a special reason to celebrate. One of the students, Shruti Anand, obtained the maximum score in Mathematics and has therefore placed herself among the best students in the world. She was presented with her Outstanding Cambridge Learner Award, specifically a Top in the World award, by the guest of honour, Line Clemmensen, Associate Professor at the Danish Technical University (DTU). “I was extremely happy when I saw my result,” says a delighted Shruti Anand, who attended NIS for many years. “It was the score that I had been striving to get. In the past few years, my understanding of concepts in mathematics had always been very clear, and I would be well prepared to come to exams, but I would usually end up making a couple of ‘silly mistakes.’ It definitely feels amazing to have overcome this and fulfil my goal. I couldn't have done it without the motivation and encouragement from my NIS teachers and the support from my family who have supported me while ensuring that I never feel the pressure from academics,” says Shruti Anand. Shruti Anand was commended by the Principal of the school, Claus Campeotto. “I am almost speechless with pride. These awards rec-
ognize the talent, dedication, and commitment of both learners and staff. We have many talented students at both NGG and NIS, but it is not every day that we have a student who performs at this level. It was a combination of good teaching, Shruti's solid academic ability, and determination that allowed her to reach her goals,” says the school's Principal, Claus Campeotto. Shruti Anand's former maths teacher, Chris Boerman, is also very proud of his former student. “It is a privilege to have had a student like Shruti in the class and to be able to contribute to her academic development. She has worked hard over the last two years, set new goals, and challenged herself, and that is why, with the exam, she places herself at the top in mathematics," explains Chris Boerman. The Certificate Presentation Ceremony was closed by Karen Bøttger, who wished all students every success in their further studies in the international education system.
ABOUT CAMBRIDGE ASSESSMENT INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
IGCSE is an internationally recognized qualification
North Zealand International School, part of Denmark’s largest private school NGG (Nordsjællands Grundskole og Gymnasium) and is an international private school with 270 pupils aged between 3 and 16 years. The school has over 30 teachers, most of whom are educated in either the United States or the United Kingdom. All teaching takes place in English. NIS is the first school in Denmark accredited for the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). In addition, the school is investigating the possibility of supplementing the international basic education with an international high school education. THE-INTL
CONTACT DETAILS Read more about North Zealand International Schoool here: www.nis-ngg.dk Principal: Claus Campeotto / Tel: 3038 3824 Head of School: Karen Bøttger / Tel: 4557 2616 Mathematics teacher: Chris Boerman / Tel: 4557 2616
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HOW TO THRIVE IN DANISH WINTER YOUR FIRST DANISH WINTER MAY COME AS A SHOCK, FOR IT IS CONSTANTLY DARK AND GLOOMY. INSTEAD OF SUCCUMBING TO THE WINTER BLUES, USE THE FOLLOWING TIPS TO THRIVE IN DANISH WINTER.
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TEXT BAILEY JENSEN
YOUR IMMEDIATE SURROUNDINGS in your home actually have an impact on your mood. Invest in some candles, lanterns, fuzzy blankets, and all things that emulate cosiness. Beginning and ending your day in a comfortable environment can be a nice contrast to the difficult winter. While the weather may be terrible outside, try to do a variety of indoor activities. Meet a friend for coffee or tea at a hyggeligt café, try a board game café, go to the cinema, see a play, or check out the latest exhibits at a museum. You can also host a dinner at your home for friends, have a game night, or a sushi-making party. Take the time to be present with your friends and family, to facilitate an environment of hygge and meaningfulness.
VITAMIN D AND SUN LAMPS Acquire a sunlight or light therapy box, which is a special light that mimics natural outdoor light. Denmark is notoriously darker in the winter, with very limited hours of sunshine and early sunsets. To combat seasonal depression due to the lack of Vitamin D, consider taking a Vitamin D supplement and buying a sun lamp. Sun Lamps have a positive effect on serotonin and melatonin, which helps to improve your mood, reduce anxiety while helping your sleep and wake cycle.
WINTER BATHING Considering trying Vinterbadning (winter bathing), a classic Danish winter activity. Basically, this involves briefly swimming in the ice-cold ocean naked and then warming up in the relaxing sauna. While in the moment, the water is frigid and punching, afterward, the sauna leaves you rejuvenated. People usually repeat the pattern of ocean and sauna while ending the cycle with the cold sea. There are endless benefits to winter bathing including an increase in energy, surges your endorphins, pain relief promotes weight loss, enhances circulation, lessens stress, and boosts your immune system.
JOIN A CLUB OR ASSOCIATION Denmark has consistently been highly ranked for a good worklife balance. Part of this balance is reaching an equilibrium between family life, professional life, and personal life. Denmark is a “nation of associations,” and there are countless clubs and associations you can participate in. Join a club for running, soccer, tennis, fencing, roller skating, rock climbing, or cross-training. Participating in a club or association creates a deep sense of community, consistency, social opportunities and guaranteed endorphins with exercise. One prime way to gain more Danish friends is to join a club
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BAILEY JENSEN BLOGGER & STUDENT Bailey Ann Jensen is an or association, for the majority of Danes belong to one. This is a great chance to connect to the seemingly distant Danes and can facilitate a fulfilling feeling of belonging, which is vital for expatriates. A final way to thrive in Danish winter is to boost your levels of wellbeing by learning a new hobby. Take an evening or weekend class on pottery, candle making, or baking. For expatriates, try going to international meet up groups such as some offered by Internations. There are often weekly meetups where you can socialise with others from countries all over the world and connect with one another about the commonality of living in Denmark. This type of connection can truly decrease the ever-present sense of loneliness as an expatriate in Denmark, especially in the winter time. THE-INTL
INVEST IN SOME CANDLES, LANTERNS, FUZZY BLANKETS, AND ALL THINGS THAT EMULATE COSINESS.
American expat in Aarhus, Denmark since 2013 and is from Helena, Montana. She originally came to Denmark as an exchange student at Aarhus University for one year, where she met her Danish husband. Now living in Denmark permanently, Bailey is getting her bachelor’s degree in political science and is an international nanny for families in Aarhus. In her free time, she makes sense of her multicultural life around her with her blog about becoming a Dane: Dane in Training. For frequent new blog posts, check out her website and daily pictures on Instagram www.daneintraining.com @daneintraining
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CELEBRATIONS FOR
INTERNATIONALS THE UNLIKELY LOVE STORY BETWEEN A FINANCE LAW AND THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
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TEXT NARCIS GEORGE MATACHE
YOU WANTED TO
learn the Danish language, but couldn’t afford it? You wanted to study something else after realising that your current studies would not bring you that dream job? You wanted to not lose sleep by worrying that you might end up on the streets jobless, before residing 5 years in the European Union? No more worries, the Finance Law 2020 has made this a possibility. On the night of 2 December, the Finance Law 2020 arrived into the world almost in a messianic way, bringing joy into the homes of internationals, after 4 years of cake-celebrated law-making mockery. For a handful of extra coins in the pockets of the better-off, the last years have been marked by aggressive cut-downs on healthcare, education, and public service spending, just to name a few areas. Also, to maintain the grin on the face of a few bad-hearted people, disguised as savings for the welfare state, measures have been taken to make the life of internationals a lot harder in Denmark. One of the measures, making studying Danish a luxury, has drastically reduced the number of people learning the language of Hans Christian Andersen, while also sending into unemployment dozens of teachers. However, the sun decided to bathe the lands of the Dannebrog again after the Danish citizens decided a new course at the voting booths on the 5th of June. The
"IN EACH PARTY, THERE ARE ACTIVE MEMBERS WITH AN INTERNATIONAL BACKGROUND OR OUTLOOK THAT CREATED THE PRESSURE NECESSARY TO PUSH THEIR PARTY LEADERS TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSALS DURING THE NEGOTIATIONS."
NARCIS GEORGE MATACHE POLITICIAN Born in 1990 in a village in the north-east of Romania, Narcis will of the people has been respected by the politicians in Denmark and the act of voting has shown its power to decide your fate. That is why, the finance law 2020 has been celebrated by Internationals and Danes alike, as a positive sign for better times ahead. With headliners like the fight against climate change and mental disorders, the end of the cut-downs on the essential public services and the start of the reverse of all the cake-celebrated laws aimed at the international community, in the hearts of the people fear started to be slowly replaced by hope.
HOW DID WE GET THE POSITIVE CHANGES INTO THE FINANCE LAW? While the credit will go to the finance minister (Nicolai Wammen) and the primeminister (Mette Frederiksen) together with the political parties that supported the agreement, we should not forget the nameless heroes that pushed for the positive changes during the process of hatching the deal. Inside each party, there are active members with an international background or outlook that created the pressure neces-
sary to push their party leaders to support the proposals during the negotiations. Inside each community, there are active local citizens with an international background or outlook that created resistance after each cake-celebrated law through various ways of protesting. Thanks to the contribution of the politically and/or civically active internationals, we can see for once positive changes happening to our community.
made Aalborg his new home
HOW DO WE KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM?
Danish citizen to run for re-
The finance law has brought a positive momentum into the international community, but to ensure further positive changes in the following years, we need to do our part. We are more than a quarter of million in Denmark, yet only a few hundred are fighting our cause. Imagine the power of change brought by the involvement of a quarter of a million? Even better, let’s not imagine it. Let’s do it. Join a local association or create one. Join a political party and become an active member. Organize your local community. Make your voice heard in the local and national media. Become part of Denmark, our home. THE-INTL
gional elections and to repre-
since 2009. Smitten by the Danish model, he decided to get involved in the local community leading to him becoming a strong voice on the topic of usage of the local political rights by the internationals. In 2017, he became the first non-
sent Denmark in the Council of Europe. He holds or held leadership positions in European Youth Denmark, Europabevægelsen, Socialdemokratiet Nørresundby, DSU Aalborg, and Frit Forum International. www.facebook.com/ NarcisGeorge.Matache/
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KISS
KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID. PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO / UNSPLASH.COM
TEXT LAURA WINTEMUTE
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THIS WAS WHAT my Dad said to me when I told him I was starting my first company, and it was the best advice I ever received. I have always been a bit of a dreamer. I have always had a “Go big or go home” kind of attitude. My brain is constantly swimming with hundreds of ideas, and I want to begin them all at the same time. It’s taken years of training to learn to focus on just a few projects at a time. This allows me to do them well, instead of trying to do everything halfway. If you apply the KISS principle to both your work and home life, you will likely be more productive, make better decisions, and have a calmer disposition. The underlying idea is as simple and straightforward as possible.
LAURA WINTEMUTE
TIME MANAGEMENT My Mom taught me about time management. Quite often during my school years, she could see me getting frustrated and flustered with homework projects so she would say to me “Laura, write a ‘to do’ list, starting with the most important task, then check them off one by one.” She was right, it always worked like a charm. To this day, I still write out my daily tasks and action items on a paper notepad. Nothing feels better than checking off each item when it’s completed. She has always been an extremely organized person, everything is neatly written down, scheduled, and mapped out. Her calendars on the wall are always current, with all the important birthdays and anniversaries were noted throughout. She always has things under control, even to this day, in her retirement years. Every golf game, dinner out and quilting event is carefully noted in that calendar of hers. I’ve tried to emulate the best parts of my parents, from their advice to their actions while I run my own business. So far, they haven’t steered me wrong.
DELEGATE All self-employed entrepreneurs know what it’s like to own a small business in Denmark. It requires a clear vision, passionate execution, and endless optimism to create something from scratch. We must maintain the highest level of dedication and tireless work ethic to keep our brand, product, and business continually evolving. Many of us have our hands in all aspects of our operations, but there comes a point where we must delegate and share some of the responsibility. Otherwise, be prepared to work 24-7. Unfortunately, this usually happens because quite often, we start-ups can’t afford to hire full-time employees, which leaves us doing all the work ourselves. There is good news, though, because, in Denmark, you can apply to your local municipality helpers in job practice, or you can apply for an internship. The idea is that you hire these interns permanently after the three months once you see the benefit of having them. For me, delegating means giving up control and
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OWNER, HOMESTEAD Laura is Canadian. After years of living abroad and travelling the world, she moved to Denmark in 2007 and started her new life as an expat living in Denmark. Laura’s experience working in the Danish relocation industry, encapsulating both her experience as an ex-pat and her desire
STARTING A BUSINESS REQUIRES A CLEAR VISION, PASSIONATE EXECUTION, AND ENDLESS OPTIMISM TO CREATE SOMETHING FROM SCRATCH.
for helping people, which is WHY she started Homestead. Homestead offers Settling in Services and Workshops focusing on the day to day challenges of expats, as well as the cultural differences in both their work and daily life.
trusting someone else with my baby. But as with any skill, it’s one that can be learned.
OUTSOURCE Companies that do everything themselves have much higher research, development, marketing, and distribution expenses, all of which must be passed on to customers. Outsourcing payroll and accounting, distribution, and many other important functions that take our time away from basic sales are highly suggested.
WORK/LIFE BALANCE Just remember that no matter what work you do, or what business you’re in, it’s important to create boundaries and stick to them. At work, focus on your work. At home, focus on your home life. This is super simple… if you just KISS it! You will be glad you did. THE-INTL
“In House” consultations for International employees are also one of Homestead’s specialties. Customized, personal consultations focusing on the individual employee. Homestead. We are You’re Settling in Experts. www.homesteaddenmark.com
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FAMILY MATTERS RELOCATION IS MADE UP OF MANY ASPECTS, BUT ONE, IF NOT THE MOST IMPORTANT, AND OVERLOOKED FACTORS IS THE EMOTIONAL WELL BEING OF THE FAMILY MOVING ABROAD. PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO
TEXT KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI
KATHY BORYS SIDDIQUI FOUNDER, ACTIVE ACTION
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A NEW COUNTRY, culture, language, and the opportunity to experience the thrill of living abroad. As Internationals, the focus is often on the exciting, and the new. At times, there is a twinge of envy from others, how lucky is he/she, it must be fantastic to have such a life. Of course, the opportunities are great. However, what is often overlooked and not addressed is the emotional well being of the family. What is the meaning of emotional well being? According to an article by Tchiki Paris Ph.D. in psycholodytoday.com, it is “the experience of health, happiness, and prosperity. It includes having good mental health, high life satisfaction, and a sense of meaning or purpose.” To have successful International relocations means that the emotional well being and focus on soft skills need to be seen as a must-have and not a nice to have. Addressing these sensitive topics is the only way to move forward and then build on it to have thriving and active International families.
WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW… Let us be honest. Moving abroad is a big deal, it is stressful for all parties involved,
and support is necessary! Why? Well, there are numerous stress factors such as a new host country, a new job, a spouse giving up their job, new house, new school, new routines, new roles, being away from loved ones, and friends. The emotional complaints of Internationals “are linked to identity issues, uprooting, repeated goodbyes, losses, constant changes, and unresolved grief,” states Bushong, L. J., author of Belonging Everywhere & Nowhere: Insights into Counseling the Globally Mobile. The fact of the matter is that International families need to be supported. Providing a nice lump sum as the Welcome Package is simply not going to cut it. Addressing and raising awareness regarding the emotional well being of international spouses/partners is a step in the right direction. To move forward and to be able to focus on an action plan (whatever that may be for each individual), the deeper issues of living life as an International have to be discussed. Adjusting to life in any host country is a process and it has its ups and downs. It is not the same for everyone. When we focus on cultural adjustment, expat/international identity, uprooting, hav-
ing to re-shape our professional identity, we find out that we all face or have faced similar challenges. You are not alone and what you are feeling is part of a process. Raising awareness and providing the right tools to support Internationals allows for smoother transitions.
LIVE AND LEARN International life is unique and full of wonderful experiences. It can also, at times, be a real uphill battle. It can be made easier if we start speaking up about the issues close to the heart. Silence is not golden in this case. We, the ones who experience it have to come forward and share our stories. We have to communicate and ask for support. If we stay silent, the importance of emotional well being and the importance of the family well being will not be seen or heard. It is a vulnerable topic but so relevant. International life teaches us many valuable lessons. The journey involves all family members but each person has different challenges, experiences, and needs. One of the biggest lessons is that as a family, we all need to be seen, heard and supported. THE-INTL
THE EMOTIONAL COMPLAINTS OF INTERNATIONALS "ARE LINKED TO INDENTITY ISSUES, UPROOTING, REPEATED GOODBYES, LOSSES, CONSTANT CHANGES, AND UNRESOLVED GRIEF"
Kathy was born in Poznań, Poland and has lived in 4 countries and on 2 continents. Growing up as an immigrant and a cross cultural kid she was able to discover a multicultural world that shaped her into the person she is today. As an adult she experienced life as a re-pat as well as an expat and she is not a stranger to the challenges and opportunities that life abroad offers. Just when she least expected it, she met her Danish husband and once again packed her life in boxes and set off to live the happily ever after in the land of the Vikings and Hygge. Over the span of 10 years she has lived on Fyn, in Jylland and currently in Nordsjælland. Kathy has a background in Cultural Studies and also a degree in American Studies. She has been able to combine her passion and profession as an Intercultural trainer, Personal Branding and Expat Spouse and Partner Specialist at Active Action. A firm believer that if you are lacking something - create it. She is the co-founder of #BeGreatCollaborate, a running enthusiast, speaker, active lifestyle advocate, wife and Mom. www.activeaction.dk kbs@activeaction.dk
BUSHONG, L. J., AUTHOR OF BELONGING EVERYWHERE & NOWHERE: INSIGHTS INTO COUNSELING THE GLOBALLY MOBILE
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GET A CULTURE SHOT RESOLVE TO START THE NEW YEAR WITH SOME ENRICHING CULTURAL EXPERIENCES PHOTOGRAPHS LINDSEY SCAIFE / ISTOCK PHOTO / CATRIONA TURNER
TEXT CATRIONA TURNER
TIRPITZ (VARDEMUSEERNE.DK/EN/MUSEUM/TIRPITZ-EN/) I’ve said it before, and it bears repeating, briefly: Tirpitz is a world-class museum and a must-see. You can read my full gushing review on my blog!
ESBJERG MUSEUM (ESBJERGMUSEUM.DK/DA/)
RIBE VIKINGECENTER
The highlight here is the recreation of streets, homes, and shops from the first half of the 20th century. It’s always fun to pretend to be living in the past, and the vintage Danish design is delightful. Other exhibits show life in the town during the German occupation and give a detailed look at the work of the Danish resistance. But, be warned, as my 6-year-old observed, there are no dinosaurs! Remember Esbjerg is only 150 years old, after all.
WRITER AND BLOGGER
Back in June, I described the remarkable experience of walking among Vikings. From 23 April 2020, you can throw yourself back in time at this outdoor centre.
Catriona is a writer and blog-
TOBAKKEN (TOBAKKEN.DK/)
E
EVEN WITH THE best of intentions, time can slip away, most obviously at the turn of the year. If you’re like me, you’ve made lots of plans to make the most of Denmark, but life has been getting in the way. To avoid this, I’m starting 2020 by writing down a few bucket lists, with what I want to see and do while we still live here. One of them will focus on the culture on offer around Esbjerg. If you’ve been meaning to check out some local art or history, there’s lots to see, and you’ll be glad you did. Here are some of my highlights, as well as what’s going on my to-see list.
ESBJERG KUNSTMUSEUM (ESKUM.DK) This is truly for the contemporary art fan. Most of the main galleries are given over to 20th century abstract and conceptual painting, sculpture, and installations, while more figurative paintings can be viewed in the innovative open stores. It’s an invigorating surprise to be confronted with some of the challenging pieces. Not all of it will be everyone’s cup of tea, but among my favourites is the immersive installation by Kirstine Roepstorff, which for me, was worth the price of admission alone.
CATRIONA TURNER
RIBE VIKINGECENTER (RIBEVIKINGECENTER.DK/DA/FORSIDE.ASPX)
This former tobacco factory is Esbjerg’s performance hub, with a wide range of music in their programme throughout the year. If you’re new to Denmark, you might not have heard of many of the acts, but try something new and you might discover your new favourite band. It’s also a creative centre, with many craft workshops available that take advantage of the open space and equipment. I love the modern industrial vibe in Tobakken; it’s well worth taking advantage of this cultural resource.
ger currently living in Esbjerg, Denmark. In the decade since leaving Scotland, she’s also lived in France, Uganda and the Republic of Congo. At her blog, The Frustrated Nester, she writes about Danish living, travel and the expat life. Her writing has also been published in the anthol-
ON MY BUCKET LIST: FANØ KUNSTMUSEUM: I’m hoping to see local Fanø art and crafts on display when it reopens in spring
ogy Once Upon an Expat, and its follow-up Life on the Move, published in June 2019. She’s currently working on a
MUSEUM FRELLO, VARDE: I don’t know anything about this
memoir of place and home, and
local artist, but the website is intriguing!
is also a freelance copy-editor
RIBE VIKING MUSEUM: for more detail about the develop-
and proofreader.
ment of the oldest settlement in Scandinavia. MUSIKHUSET, ESBJERG: the concert hall’s architecture, espe-
www.thefrustrated
cially the interior of the entrance hall, is dramatic, but I’ve yet
nester.com
to experience live music in the performance space.
www.facebook.com/the-
RIBE KUNSTMUSEUM (RIBEKUNSTMUSEUM.DK/)
MUSIKKONSERVATORIUM, ESBJERG: a former power station,
frustratednester
If you prefer more classical painting, the Ribe Kunstmuseum, of 19th and early 20th century Danish art, is unmissable. There are works by several of the Skagen Painters, as well as Hammershoi. The building itself is a lovely example of 19th century Scandinavian architecture, with its harmonious and serene interior.
this is another performance space I’m keen to try.
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
Have you added any of these to your bucket list? Maybe I’ll see you there! Happy New Year! THE-INTL
@thefrustratednester
21
DON’T BE SO TOUGH ON YOURSELF
YOU DON’T WANT TO BURN OUT Job seeking can be a long process with many ups and downs – I have been there myself a couple of times and know exactly how it feels.
VISITAARHUS PHOTOGRAPHER CREDITS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: ANDERS HEDE; ANDERS HEDE; ANDERS HEDE; RUNI PHOTOPOP
PHOTOGRAPHS VISITAARHUS / ISTOCK PHOTO
TEXT GREETE ELURI
N
NOWADAYS, ONE OF the most common reasons for people not getting the job is lack of experience. Just so you know – people with even 20 years of experience do not ‘just’ get jobs, because it is a process which takes time. Make a plan, adjust it on the way, have patience and then you will succeed. Identify your competencies, be realistic about your job opportunities in the relevant geographical area and, make a plan. You do not just send 20 applications a week to every possible position across Denmark, right?
GREETE ELURI JOB CONSULTANT
YOUR COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS
You have probably had this conversation with your a-kasse or Jobcenter. Do you know what your strengths are? What are you good at? One way to find out is to make a list of all the previous employments/projects you have done during your university studies, internships, volunteering projects, and student work. When you start listing the tasks which you did, you might start to see them repeating, from a project to a project. That can give you an indication of what you are good at and what you enjoy doing. Often, you would see that you had very similar tasks that required the same skills – for example, if you did something related to communication and marketing, you might find that you were structured and organised, created content for social media and the website. Similar tasks, but different projects. Yo u s h o u l d a l s o a s k yo u r c l o s e s t friends and family - they know you the best, and I can guarantee you that certain qualities and skills will be repeated. It is good to know your strengths, but also weaknesses – what you are good at,
ONCE YOU KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS AND SKILLS, MAKE A PLAN FOR YOURSELF FOR THE FIRST THREE MONTHS IN 2020. but also what you would need to improve on. If you know what is your ‘dream job’ then ask yourself – do I have the needed knowledge and skills to be a successful candidate for this job?
MAKE A PLAN FOR THE FIRST THREE MONTHS IN 2020
I meet many job seekers these days, and one of the biggest barriers I see with people is the lack of patience. People have a hard time accepting that even if you speak perfect Danish or have the perfect CV and cover letter, that there is more to it, and it takes time. Many factors go into the recruitment process and which candidate gets chosen in the end, is not only the result of speaking the language fluently or having the perfect CV nor a perfect experience. Once you know your strengths and skills, make a plan for yourself for the first three months in 2020. What are your goals?
Analyse everything you have done so far – do you get to interviews? If not, have a recruiter or your a-kasse check your application again. Do you know enough people and do people know you? Start reaching out to relevant professionals and arrange coffee meetings – people who can broaden your knowledge about the industry you are interested in and get tips on what is required to ‘get in the door.’ Do you network actively? Find events which you are comfortable to visit and have your ‘Elevator pitch’ ready. What about your Linkedin profile – is it up to date? If I visit your profile today, do I get a clear overview of who you are within 10 seconds? If not, you are welcome to check the guide I made about on “8 tips for a sharp Linkedin profile?” (you can find the article from my profile). Have a clear action plan, adjust it on the go, if something does not work, network, and have patience – good things come to those who wait. THE-INTL
Greete was born in Tallinn, Estonia and has lived in four countries and on four continents. After high school exchange year in the US, Greete caught a ‘travel bug’. Since 2010, Denmark has become her second home. Her background is within international marketing. Greete changed her career to work with her passion - to help international job seekers in Denmark. For the last two years, she has been actively creating content in Linkedin and organising different events for job seekers. Greete believes that with the right mindset, skills and tools you can be successful in the rigid Danish job market. www.linkedin.com/in/ greeteeluri/ greete.eluri@gmail.com
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
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FROM U.S. TO DK PULLED PORK IS HERE TO STAY
Denmark has always been known as a top pork producer, with pork being a deeply integrated fare within Danish culture – from the farm table to the Christmas table, from school lunch boxes to roadside hot dog stands. So when the phenomenon of “Pulled Pork” made it’s way over from USA to Denmark, it was, of course, an instant sensation.
PHOTOGRAPHS ANDREAS WIKING
TEXT ERIN CHAPMAN
BRAISED PULLED PORK WITH HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE MAKES 8
THIS RECIPE IS A STOVETOP VERSION, SO YOU CAN MAKE IT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR, AND WHILE IT’S VERY EASY ON PREP TIME, ALLOW 5-6, OR EVEN UP TO 8 HOURS FOR THE SLOW-COOKING TO WORK ITS MAGIC. ONCE YOU’VE STARTED THE COOKING PROCESS, YOU CAN FORGET IT FOR A WHILE AND GO DO SOMETHING ELSE!
DRY RUB: 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon paprika 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
BRAISING SAUCE: 300 ml apple cider vinegar 150 ml Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 3 tablespoons honey 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 medium yellow onions 2 kg pork shoulder (nakkefilet)
BBQ SAUCE: 100 g ketchup 3 tablespoons brown sugar 3 tablespoons vinegar 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
all the ingredients listed under BBQ sauce and
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
stir over medium-low heat, bring to a simmer.
½ teaspoon ground oregano
Simmer on low for about 15 minutes. Remove
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
from heat and cool completely. (Can be
stored in an airtight container in the
refrigerator for about a week)
METHOD: 1. Start by making the dry rub. In a small mixing
8. After 5-6 hours of cooking, gently remove the
bowl, stir together the brown sugar, paprika,
pork from the pot and place it on a chopping
cayenne, salt, black pepper until well
block. Drain any liquid from the pot into a bowl.
combined.
Remove the onion from the liquid and discard
2. Rub the pork with the dry rub, massaging in
it. Shred or “pull” the meat apart with a fork (it
should be very tender). Place the shredded
3. Meanwhile, make the braising sauce. In a
meat back into the pot and add the
medium mixing bowl, whisk together the
remaining half of the braising liquid and a few
vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard,
spoonfuls of any liquid that was reserved from
honey, and garlic clove until well combined.
the pot until the meat in the pot is moist and
Set aside.
juicy. Stir well until combined and cook further
4. Chop the onions into large chunks.
on low for another 20-30 minutes.
5. In a large heavy-bottomed stew pot with a lid
9. Serve on warm buns, BBQ sauce, and a side of
or Dutch oven, place the onions in the bottom
coleslaw.
of the pot. Place the spiced pork on top of the
well, and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
onions.
3 tablespoons yellow mustard
6. Pour ½ the braising liquid over the pork and
1 tablespoon honey
onions, coating well. Cover the pot and cook
1 teaspoon paprika
on low heat for 5-6 hours undisturbed.
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
7. Make the BBQ sauce: In a small saucepan, add
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YES, YOU HEARD RIGHT – THERE WAS A TIME WHEN PULLED PORK DIDN’T EXIST IN DENMARK. THEN SUDDENLY, ABOUT 15 YEARS AGO, IT WAS EVERYWHERE – IN RESTAURANTS, GROCERY STORES, AND EVEN CORNER CONVENIENCE MARKETS! WHILE MANY FORMS OF PORK PREPARATION ARE DEEPLY ROOTED IN DANISH CULTURE, LIKE “FRIKADELLER” (MEATBALLS) OR “FLÆSKESTEG”(PORK ROAST), THE SMOKY, SLOW-COOKED WAY OF PREPARING PULLED PORK HAS BEEN DEEPLY ROOTED IN AMERICAN CULTURE FOR GENERATIONS. FROM THE CAROLINAS TO TEXAS, AND ALL THE STATES IN BETWEEN, AMERICAN SOUTHERN REGIONS ARGUE AMONGST THEMSELVES ABOUT WHO’S GOT THE BEST PULLED PORK. HOWEVER, THEY ALL TEND TO AGREE ON ONE INGREDIENT: IT’S GOT TO BE MADE WITH VINEGAR. MIXING SOUR VINEGAR WITH SWEET INGREDIENTS IS ESSENTIAL TO CREATE THE BARBECUE SAUCE AND BRING ALL THE BEST FLAVORS OUT OF PORK MEAT. YOU CAN SMOKE IT SLOWLY OVER THE GRILL OR BRAISE IT LOW AND SLOW ON THE STOVETOP OR
ERIN CHAPMAN
IN THE OVEN. HOWEVER, YOU CHOOSE TO PREPARE PULLED PORK, REMEMBER THAT PREP TIME IS SHORT, BUT COOK
CO-OWNER, THE AMERICAN
TIME IS LONG TO ACHIEVE THAT DELICIOUS MOUTHWATERING TENDERNESS.
PIE COMPANY With over 20 years’ experience in the advertising industry, working both in Denmark and USA, Erin has specialised in brand building and image development for lifestyle, food and fashion clientele at both national and international level. Erin attended DIS, Denmark’s Study Abroad programme in 1996 and made a connection with Copenhagen. She moved to Denmark permanently in 1998 with two suitcases and a pocketful of change. Working in the advertising industry she worked her way up as a senior creative, as well as a voiceover artist, and then began her own brand and design business in 2006. Merging her love for food and art direction, she began food styling and cookbook design for other authors, and then proceeded to continue with recipe development, publishing two cookbooks in Denmark. While living in Los Angeles, Erin worked with several US brands on image and recipe development and upon returning to Denmark, she partnered with Dorte Prip in 2015 to introduce The American Pie Company in Copenhagen. Erin is happily married to her Danish husband and is the mother of a sassy seven year old daughter who speaks fluent “Danglish”. www.theamericanpieco.com
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JUTL AND
HOW TO SURVIVE THE DARK AND GLOOMY
FIRST MONTHS OF THE YEAR PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO / AARHUS INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
TEXT AARHUS INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY
5 SHORT TIPS TO SURVIVING THE DARK WINTER MONTHS #1 Check the calendars of
#2
#3
#4
I
IN THE BLINK of an eye, Christmas and New Year are over, and the months of fairy lights, hol-
#5
iday spirit and fireworks are gone. Ahead awaits the dark and gloomy months of January and February. But fear not, there are plenty of things you can do to brighten up those dark months. Throughout November and December, the cities in Denmark are filled with light, joy, and plenty of people. But what we tend to forget is that months of dark and gloomy days awaits on the other side of New Year. Even though Christmas is over and there aren’t any other holidays in sight, it doesn’t mean that the ‘hygge’ can’t continue. To battle the infamous winter depression and the tendency to spend hours upon hours indoors like a coach potato in front of your TV, we encourage you to make it your New Year’s resolution to get the most out of the start to the new year!
different clubs and associa tions in your area, there are plenty of social events to go to. Perhaps get a new hobby and socialize with others who have the same interest as you. Remember to get your vita mins! Especially vitamin D and vitamin B-12 will help you to keep your energy levels up during winter. Go out and be around people, whether it is just for a cup of coffee or a full shopping spree with friends. Whenever the sun decides to grant us a visit, don’t hesitate to go for a long walk or open all the windows to let the light and fresh air inside. Do some indoor activities if the weather is bad; go to a con cert, a museum or the theater - the opportunities are plenty!
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY We offer a wide range of events, seminars and online activities that help internationals get settled in Denmark. Learn more on our website or follow us on:
CHECK YOUR LOCAL CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
@internationalcommunityAarhus
There are lots of opportunities for you to get out and meet other internationals or internationally-minded Danes during the winter months! Many clubs and organizations offer activities yearround - perhaps you want to join a drawing course, play handball or maybe even just meet people for a drink or a cup of coffee. There are clubs and organizations all around in Denmark, so look up the possibilities in your area, you might be surprised how much there is to do. At the International Community, we make sure to host events all months of the year. For example, the returning ‘First Tuesday’ event, which is a social event with the sole purpose of having people meet and talk in cozy settings. Even though it is just for a couple of hours, it is a great opportunity to go out and be in the company of other people.
@internationalcommunityaarhus
IT’S THE MOST NOT-SO-WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR It is no secret that January and February definitely aren’t the most charming months of the year if you are spending them in Denmark, but do not fret; spring will return, and light will find its way back. Until then, keeping yourself busy can make those dark months go a lot faster. Below we have listed five short suggestions to how you can bring a little light and joy to the dark winter days. THE-INTL
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
www.erhvervaarhus.dk www.international community.dk
25
BEST BEAUTY BUYS PICTURES FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: THEBLACBOX; I LOVE NATURAL HAIR FACEBOOK PAGE; THEBLACBOX; UNSPLASH.COM; UNSPLASH.COM
DENMARK'S LEADING BLACK BEAUTY QUEENS For people of colour looking for beauty products that suit your skin tone, hairstyle, and hair types in Denmark can be very difficult. Your prayers have been answered. Here are 2 of Denmark's leading companies who can provide everything you need for hair, makeup and cosmetics.
ABI OLUSANYA
CARRIENE RENDBO
FOUNDER AND OWNER OF I LOVE NATURAL HAIR Carriene Rendbo is the founder and owner of I love Natural Hair - the curly hair emporium. Born and bred in London, she now lives in Denmark with her Danish husband and two kids. She is an entrepreneur who fell into her line of business as a result of her own hair issues. Many years of struggling with her natural hair, she set up a webshop to cater to people who needed help with managing, accepting and learning about their curls. Carriene is also a European distributor for one of the brands available on the website. As a trained Trichologist, she runs monthly workshops both online and in person, where you can learn how to effectively and practically take care of your curls. It is aimed at all curl types. She offers scientific and practical ways to take care of your hair care routine and offers detailed ways to solve common issues such as dandruff, alopecia and contact dermatitis. Carriene is working on opening up a clinic in Copenhagen, which will be available for all hair types who suffer from these conditions. WWW.ILOVENATURALHAIR.DK INSTAGRAM: ILOVENATURALHAIR.DK
OWNER OF THEBLACBOX Nigerian born, British raised, Abi has been living in Denmark since 2017. Having a background in Law, Primary Education and Sales & M a r ke t i n g . S h e is currently Head of Growth for a small startup in Copenhagen. "After moving to Copenhagen, I was surprised at the lack of variety in stores for black women. Over the last couple of years, brands have become much more inclusive with their product ranges, but those products never seemed to populate the shelves in physical stores in Denmark. I was constantly buying full-sized products (and paying for international shipping) without even knowing if products would suit me. So I created the BlacBox a wallet-friendly and hassle-free way to try different products tailored to your profile'. theBlacBox is a bi-monthly subscription box for black women in Europe. All products are sourced from black-owned businesses around the world and tailor-made to every subscriber based on their hair type, skin type and skin tone. Every other month, you’ll receive 2 products for skin care, 2 products for hair care and 2 products that match your skin tone. Each BlacBox has a minimum total price of 950DKK, which you can subscribe to for 350DKK, shipping included.
BARBARA MENSAH BEAUTY EDITOR & MAKEUP ARTIST Barbara was born in England, London and relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark in 2017. She has been a professional International Makeup Artist for 11 years and a professional Lash Stylist for 3 years. After moving to Copenhagen, Denmark, Barbara became the owner of Barbara Mensah Beauty Studio. Her stylish, cosy and chic studio provides a welcoming, comfortable space for clients to spend their time getting glammed and pampered for those special moments and occasions. All bookings for Lash Extension and Makeup can be made via her social media or tel: +45 53564504 barbaramensah. beauty@gmail.com @barbara.mensah.beauty @barbaramensahbeauty
WWW.THEBLACBOX.CO INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK & TWITTER: @GETTHEBLACBOX
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
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MAKE LANGUAGE FUN AGAIN! START SPEAKING WITH SWAP LANGUAGE
LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE AS AN ADULT CAN BE A DAUNTING TASK. SPEAKING WITH NATIVES IS EVEN MORE INTIMIDATING IF YOU ARE UNSURE OF THE VOCABULARY, GRAMMAR RULES, ACCENT, PRONUNCIATIONS, OR EVEN NUANCES OF LANGUAGE. I SAT DOWN WITH THE FOUNDERS OF SWAP LANGUAGE HERE IN AARHUS TO DISCUSS WHY PRACTICING A NEW LANGUAGE WITH THE NATIVES IS THE BEST WAY TO MASTER THE LANGUAGE.
PHOTOGRAPHS JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN / ISTOCK PHOTO / SWAP LANGUAGE
TEXT JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN
W
WHEN ALLAN HERMANSEN
and Nichlas M. Walsted joined hands to create the Swap Language platform, one thing was on their mind. All five years of learning Spanish at the university meant nothing to them when they found themselves unable to communicate with natives in Spain and Chile. In 2017, inspired by this challenge, Allan went on to create an algorithm that could match native speakers with language learners. “The algorithm works by, for example matching the Spaniard living in Aarhus with a Dane in the same city. The idea is for them to connect and meet up physically for a mutual language exchange.” Says Nichlas. The Danish duo’s passion is driven by their mutual desire to break language and cultural barriers by making the process of communication accessible to people through technology. “It was imperative for me to start something that gave people skills and competency, something that aligned with my values as well. Therefore it wasn’t difficult for me to decide that this was the project I wanted to start up,” adds Allan. Today Swap Language platform boasts of 12,000 users spread out across 103 countries, but actively in Denmark, German, France, and Belgium: With a 50:50 ratio between locals and internationals.
YOU CAN NEVER SPEAK A LANGUAGE BY STUDYING IT Adults, unlike children who absorb a new vocabulary like a sponge, often have to overcome many roadblocks on their way to achieving the desired language competency. Too often, the limiting factors may include an overarching functional need to sound like a native or fear of embarrassing yourself to locals.
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
JUDY WANJIKU JØRGENSEN JOURNALIST, WRITER, PHOTOGRAPHER “Today, more than two billion people are learning a foreign language; most of them are learning in classrooms. But is that where the value comes from? The greatest experiences of my life have come from speaking to people from different cultures.” Says Nichlas. Part of Swap Language’s sweet deal is the events targeting communities of expats, locals, exchange students, internationals, and tourists. These evening meet-up events have been hugely popular, attracting so many as 100 attendees. The constellation of participants here in Denmark includes Danes who want to better their foreign language skills and Internationals who wish to practice Danish.
WHY LANGUAGE MATTERS Learning the language of your new host country is a big part of identity and integration. There is a magical shift that happens when you go from not being able to contribute to the conversation at the dinner table to becoming an active participant in the dialogue. The new sense of visibili-
ty can make your transition smoother, further giving you a sense of belonging. Being out of your comfort zone can accelerate your language acquisition skills. “As expats for four years, we are surprised by how hard it is to break out of the international bubble. It is often easier to surround yourself with likeminded people who can relate to your pains. Not being able to speak the language of the locals can leave you feeling like life is passing by you.” It is not hard to see why Swap Language has grown in appeal and membership numbers. Allan and Nichlas know how it feels to be the ‘other’. Having travelled extensively and interacted with people from different cultures has made them cognizant and empathetic to the challenges Internationals face when integrating into Danish society. THE-INTL
"THE GREATEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE HAVE COME FROM SPEAKING TO PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT CULTURES." NICHLAS M. WALSTED
Judy is a journalist and writer, fuelled by a passion for bringing words to life. She has also been a photographer for 11 years. Her hunger for knowledge first led her to Denmark on a scholarship for an MA in Journalism at Aarhus University. Love made her stay. She is now a mother of two AfroViking boys. She is currently working as a freelance journalist and photographer and is always interested in a challenge. Reach out on judysimon2002@yahoo.com www.judywanderi.net
27
NORTHERN JUTL AND
THE NORTHERN LIGHTS CALLED HIM TO SCANDINAVIA
“His first move away from the comforts of home was accepting a research scholarship from the University of Lis-
Rahul travelled from his birthplace Kerala in Southern India to the absolute furthest northern point of Denmark: Skagen. A love for natural splendour and financial common sense send him on the long journey away from home.
R
RAHUL CHITTETH RAMACHANDRAN, 29, looks through the window at his current workplace, Hauschildt Marine A/S, in Skagen. The streets are quiet. The tourist season of the popular travel destination is over, and things are cooling down – literally and figuratively speaking. In June, when Skagen, the northernmost town in Denmark, was filled with joyful, lively vacationers, the place was buzzing. Now it’s quite different. However, that doesn’t bother Rahul. I loved my first summer here. So much going on. But actually, I quite enjoy the quiet season. It gives you time for contemplation and enjoying good books, good movies and good company. Nature here is amazing and very different from home. I enjoy spending time in it like walking, alone with my thoughts, on the beach, he says. LURED BY THE LIGHTS Kerala, Rahul’s home region, is known as one of the most vibrant, exotic, and heavenly places on earth. He had a great life there living with his father, a former governmental HR officer, and his mother, a homemaker. His younger brother had already left the nest and found employment abroad. Rahul, who sees himself as very social, had many good friends back home. His career was going well; he was working as a naval engineer at a local shipyard. Still, he felt, that there was more to conquer outside of India. One thing that kept him up at night was a lust for travel adventures. He especially wanted to experience Scandinavia and see those famous Northern Lights, he had read much about as a child. But there was also a more earthy reason for moving abroad: money! His first move away from the comforts of home was accepting a research scholarship from the University of Lisbon. A step up, but still far from Scandinavia and the pay rate he had set his mind on. But then he stumbled upon the recruitment initiative Move North.
MOVING NORTH TO REACH HIS GOALS Rahul had uploaded his resume on different recruitment
bon. A step up, but still far from Scandinavia and the pay rate he had set his mind on. But then he stumbled upon the recruitment initiative Move North.” - Rahul Chitteth Ramachandran
"NATURE HERE IS AMAZING AND VERY DIFFERENT FROM HOME" portals. Among those the Danish portal Workindenmark. Here Kåre Holdt Madsen, in charge of the recruitment initiative Move North in the municipality of Frederikshavn, spotted his CV. It looked as if he was just the right candidate for a vacant position at Hauschildt Marine A/S in Skagen. Calls were made between Rahul and Kåre. Rahul found the position interesting. And the general manager and owner of the company eventually hired him after a lengthy Skype conference. Now Rahul spends his working hours fitting so so-called scrubbers, high-tech systems which diminish air pollution from exhaustions, to ships. He is bettering the environment, the pay is great, and everything else has fallen into place, he says. We are several internationals working at the company, and we support each other both professionally and socially. The Danish nationals at my new workplace have been very forthcoming too. And I found a great place to live within walking distance from the office. I can’t complain, Rahul tells. However, there is one goal, he hasn’t checked off on his to-do-list. He still hasn’t seen the Northern Lights. It turned out that Scandinavia is quite a big place. And those luring lights are more common even further north.
A CAREER IN FREDERIKSHAVN If you see yourself in a career like Rahul, look towards northern Denmark. For more information contact recruitment agent Kåre Holdt Madsen from Move North at: khma@frederikshavn.dk or call him on +45 2114 6506. Remember to also check out their website: out www. movenorth.dk THE-INTL
HAKAN JAKOB KOSAR HEAD OF PRESS, THE MUNICIPALITY OF FREDERIKSHAVN Hakan Jakob Kosar is a Danish journalist and head of press at The Municipality of Frederikshavn. He has experience with foreign correspondence and has travelled extensively in Europe, South East Asia and Latin America. www.movenorth.dk
JANUARY 2020 - WWW.THE-INTL.COM
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TAKE AN OYSTER TOUR IN DENMARK’S WADDEN SEA NATIONAL PARK
ERIN GUSTAFSON WRITER & BLOGGER
SLURP UP SOME LESSONS ABOUT BIODIVERSITY AND WETLAND ECOLOGY WADING IN YOUR WELLIES.
Erin is a travel writer and culture hound exploring a life across borders in Copenhagen, Denmark. She is the cre-
I
PHOTOGRAPHS ERIN GUSTAFSON
TEXT ERIN GUSTAFSON
Around the World, a blog that
IN THE WATERS and wetlands along the southwestern shores of
Jutland lies a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Wadden Sea National Park, Denmark’s largest national park. The Wadden Sea straddles the borders of Denmark, Germany, and on into The Netherlands. Together it forms the largest intertidal mud and sand flats in the world, and this unique eco-system plays host to a dizzying array of diverse wildlife. Relatively untouched, the marshes and mudflats here are part of a dynamic landscape that constantly ebbs and flows, changing with the tides. The rich mud provides a home for worms, snails, mussels, crustaceans, and shellfish. In turn, this becomes food for millions of migrating birds that make stops in the Wadden Sea each season. Larger marine mammals like grey seals and harbour seals and harbour porpoises also make their homes in these waters. When on this side of Denmark, set your sites to the lovely island of Rømø easily reachable by car or bus as it is connected to the mainland by a long causeway. Rømø is best known for heather-covered dunes, wild, windswept sandy beaches and mudflats full of oysters. Yes, oysters. Denmark has two native oyster species, most famous are the ones found in Limfjord, located further north up the Danish coastline. But the oysters that currently live around Rømø are actually an invasive species of Pacific oysters from Asia. When that invasive species provides an opportunity to teach visitors about marine ecosystems and is also tasty to eat, it’s a winwin for everyone. According to the Nationalpark Vadehavet, the once prevalent European oysters died out in the 1920s due to disease. In an attempt to repopulate the waters of the Wadden with oysters – hardier and disease-resistant Pacific oysters were released off a German island in the 1980s and naturally spread north to Denmark. Today collecting and enjoying these tasty marine molluscs can be considered an act of conservation. Take an oyster safari when in the Wadden Sea National Park. You can spend a morning wading through mudflats and searching through seaweed with the Naturcenter Tønnisgård to pluck fresh oysters straight from the sea. Even if shellfish isn’t your favourite dish, it’s an interesting and entertaining day out in Denmark. For the tour, you will meet at the nature centre first for an introduction before following your guide in your own car out to the oyster beds. Don your wellies and waterproof pants. Put on some
protective gloves that you don’t mind getting wet and bring along your own bucket. It takes about fifteen minutes to walk along the island dyke that helps manage storm waters. Our guide shares a bit of Rømø’s history, having been part of Germany in the not so distant past. Soon your group will come to the mudflats where your guide gives information about what you’ll find and how to be safe. The mud is seriously slippery, so watch your step and take your time. Tall boots are best as the mud is soft, so you will sink a little, and there is some water to slosh through. What to look for, where to find them and what you can take will be revealed once you’ve reached the oyster beds themselves. Be careful lifting up the seaweed as you seek them out, the edges of the lacy oyster shells can be razor-sharp. Here the oyster larvae have formed reefs as they land after spawning. These large clumps are difficult to eat, but form places for other species such as mussels, clams, and crabs to develop. Since it has only been a few decades, little is known yet about the impact of these reefs on the local ecosystem. Look for single oysters – small ones to sample raw and larger ones to grill or to bake back home. It is allowed to take as much as you can fit in your hat; in other words, only what you can personally consume. Once everyone has found what they feel they can take, wade back to the marsh, and your guide will help to open a few oysters to sample on the spot. They are as fresh as you can get and taste like the sea with a little squeeze of lemon. Wash it down with a tiny cup of homemade herbal snaps flavoured with local heather and honey to cut the strong taste of the Scandinavian akvavit. Or try the havtorn-seasoned snaps, bright orange from the tart sea buckthorn berries that grow wild on the island. When in Denmark, skål! THE-INTL
EVEN IF SHELLFISH ISN’T YOUR FAVOURITE DISH, IT’S AN INTERESTING AND ENTERTAINING DAY OUT IN DENMARK.
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ator-in-chief at Oregon Girl
GOOD TO KNOW Denmark’s oyster season starts in October and ends in April. You can take tours with the Nature Centre Tønnisgård all season long. Or if oysters aren’t your thing, the centre offers many other tours and educational opportunities of all kinds. NATURCENTER TØNNISGÅRD; HAVNEBYVEJ 30, 6792 RØMØ, DENMARK LEARN MORE AT HTTP://WWW.TONNISGAARD.DK/DA
focuses on sustainable travel for the whole family. With a background in graphic design, photography and art history, Erin has a creative way of seeing a destination and believes that travel choices can have positive impacts for both the traveller and the communities visited. A local in Denmark since 2014, Erin has embraced the green city of Copenhagen and loves to share her insider tips. For more Scandinavian travel inspiration and Copenhagen culture, follow Erin around the world here: oregongirl aroundtheworld.com @oregongirl_ aroundtheworld @oregongirlworld www.facebook. com/oregongirl roundtheworld/ www.pinterest.dk/ oregongirlworld/
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AND BREATHE…
ALL DECEMBER LONG WE WISHED EACH OTHER A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR. BUT PERHAPS WHEN ALL THE GIFTS LAY
UNWRAPPED WE FELT AN EMPTINESS THAT NEVER BECAME FULFILLED? PHOTOGRAPHS HEATHER GARTSIDE / TIM LARCOMBE / HONEY STUDIOS
TEXT HEATHER GARTSIDE
HEATHER GARTSIDE STORYTELLER AND TOUR GUIDE
Heather is a successful storyteller; she’s also a tour guide,
A
ACROSS THE KINGDOM of Denmark, firework casings and dis-
carded Christmas trees litter streets and gardens. The festivities are over, and we sit hesitantly on the cusp of the long haul to spring. Brushing this off as a case of post-party blues or S.A.D, we generally emerge on New Year’s Day with a list of resolutions for the coming year. Invariably, we imagine our future happiness: we’ll exercise more, become slimmer, work harder, quit smoking, spend more time with family, drink less, or make more money. But what if we just wished ourselves and everyone else a peaceful mind?
ALL THAT GLITTERS
Our consumer society tells us from childhood to seek contentment and happiness in objects outside of ourselves. We don’t live in the moment, we live in the momentary satisfaction of a new purchase or events which lie ahead of us. Feeling all the above, four January’s ago, I was seeking something more than the annual crop of New Year’s resolutions. Gingerly, I made my way to the Kadampa meditation centre in Copenhagen having being recommended by a friend. After my initial reticence, I found myself in a warm, white room being greeted by kind, non-secular international people who welcomed me wholeheartedly – and not an incense stick in sight!
YOU NEED COURAGE TO TRY SOMETHING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE
People cling to anxiety and neurosis out of familiarity. They’d rather be crazy than be nothing. It takes guts to surrender to the unknown and to begin to search for something more spiritual. The most ‘supernatural’ thing I discovered in Buddhism is the idea that you can make yourself happy through tending the garden of your mind, by becoming your own mother and gently hushing all the chattering voices and impulses we involuntarily make.
MONKEY BUSINESS
They call this interference ‘the monkeys in the tree.’ I see those naughty apes rustling around in my mind, throwing mangoes to grab my attention when I’m fraught. Meditation has taught me to gently “shh” them, forgive them with a gentle, “Mummy’s having quiet time now” and return to the endless rhythm of my gentle breathing. I surface refreshed and able to cope once more, but armed with a growing peacefulness and emerging wisdom.
GOOD TEACHERS
Within every person, there’s a voice that guides him or her to higher levels of consciousness, a voice that speaks from the heart. We must learn to trust it, it’s our teacher. I’ve since sampled many other groups, classes and teachings in Denmark. The Kadampa centre is close to my heart; another delightful place that I stumbled across is QuietSpace in the centre of Copenha-
photographer, and mother of three. All these ingredients gen, where they sell ‘Peace of Mind’ - silence, time and space, the most sought after commodities in the 21st century. And the mindful Bodywisdom DK in Frederiksberg, where students learn by touch Metta, or loving kindness in the quest for a quiet mind.
THEN THERE’S VIPASSANA
are carefully blended together, with a pinch of sea salt, to create her unique take on life in Denmark and around the
Three years ago, I went on a 10-day silent retreat at a Vipassana centre in Sweden, there’s now a centre in Northern Jutland and numerous groups dotted around the country. When you take a Vipassana course, you commit to staying for the full duration. You also agree to abide by five rules – no stealing, lying, killing, sexual misconduct, and intoxicants. It also means no writing, talking, eye contact, no communicating at the centre, or with your loved ones at home. You are effectively alone in the overgrown garden your mind, with no outlet or interference from the outside world – but in return, you are handed a gleaming set of gardening tools. This is not a course for the faint-hearted, and I resisted the urge to run away when the going got tough. But by the tenth day, I never wanted to speak again and was rewarded with the realisation that I already had everything that I needed, I just needed to learn how to listen to my heart. THE-INTL
world. You’ll find more vivid
YOU’LL FIND DETAILS ON MY VIPASSANA EXPERIENCE:
mer months and with her
https://heathergartside.com/2017/05/28/weeding-the-garden10-days-at-a-vipassana-meditation-retreat/
new Christmas markets tours.
THE KADAMPA MEDITATION CENTRE IN COPENHAGEN:
More details on her website
www.meditateincopenhagen.org and attend one of their Monday evening meditation classes. QUIETSPACE: www.quietspace.dk offers a free sample class on Monday or Wednesday from 12:35 – 13:00. BODYWISDOM: www.bodywisdomschool.dk (see event listings for more details).
descriptions and bittersweet adventures in her novels, ‘Rice Pudding In A Duvet’ and ‘Middle Distance,’ which are available on Amazon. Heather’s hilarious walking tours of Copenhagen have become a hit with travellers from around the world, both in the sum-
and at Airbnb Experiences. @timetravellingin copenhagen @gartsideheather @timetravellingin copenhagen Amazon: @heather-gartside/ LinkedIn: @heather-gartside Airbnb Experiences: @timetravellingin copenhagen and @time travellinginhelsingør
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WHY YOU SHOULD VACCINATE YOUR PET
Vaccines are in the news and social media constantly, as some people, often dubbed anti-vaxxers, choose not to vaccinate their children or pets. Regardless of the circumstances, vaccines are essential to protect your dogs and cats against potentially deadly bacterial and viral infections. PHOTOGRAPHS ISTOCK PHOTO
TEXT TAREK ABU SHAM
V
VACCINES ARE NOT used to cure diseases but rather to prevent them. They protect against viral infections such as rabies that pose a health hazard to people and animals. They are also used to help provide protection against infections such as parvovirus, which is especially common in puppies, and Bordetella infections commonly clumped together with other respiratory infections as kennel cough.
VACCINES
Vaccines are important to keep your pet healthy. These injections are generally developed over the course of many years and often contain either a weakened version of the pathogen, referred to as modified live vaccines, or a killed version of the pathogen. When a vaccine is given, your pet's body produces antibodies, which target and kill disease-causing organisms when they enter your dog or cat's body. Scientific evidence supports that, for most pets, vaccines are safe. In rare circumstances, pets have autoimmune disorders that make receiving vaccinations dangerous, but your veterinarian can help you determine if this may be the case. The widespread use of vaccinations over the last several decades has virtually eradicated certain diseases, meaning that many illnesses that used to be common are now rarely seen by veterinarians.
TAREK ABU SHAM OWNER, THE PET-AGREES
THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION HAS LISTED VACCINE HESITANCY, OR A TENDENCY TO NOT GET VACCINATIONS, AS ONE OF THE TOP TEN THREATS AGAINST GLOBAL HEALTH.
"VACCINE HESITANCY" The World Health Organization has listed vaccine hesitancy, or a tendency to not get vaccinations, as one of the top ten threats against global health, according to Understanding Animal Research. In people, there have been large increases in the percentage of people affected by commonly preventable diseases such as measles, and dogs and cats could be next. In studies by Britain's People's Dispensary for Sick Animals, in 2018 alone, over 2 million dogs in the United Kingdom had not had their core vaccinations when they were young. Over 20% of people considered vaccines to be unnecessary for their pets, while others have claimed a link to autism. In humans, there has been no proof of vaccination links to autism. There have been no reported cases of autism in dogs or cats, meaning that vaccination does not cause it.
VACCINES AVAILABLE Vaccines are available for a slew of different bacterial and viral infections, and some vaccinations for our pets keep people healthier as well. Both dogs and cats are at risk for rabies virus, which
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is virtually 100% deadly in any animal it infects. According to the PDSA, dogs can be vaccinated against infections such as parvovirus, canine distemper, and Bordetella. Another potentially zoonotic, or contagious to humans, infection is leptospirosis. In the United States, dogs can also be vaccinated to help protect against Lyme disease. Cats are also at risk for a variety of infections that vaccines help protect against, including feline leukemia, calicivirus, and feline viral rhinotracheitis. Combination vaccines are available for dogs and cats to protect against a variety of these illnesses.
IN SUMMARY Vaccines are essential to maintaining the health and wellbeing of your dog or cat. While many people around the world cite these injections as being dangerous, it's actually more dangerous to your pets -- and to you -- to not vaccinate your dog or cat. At the Petagrees, we will soon start offering vaccination services. To find out more about our vaccination services, send us a message through our website www.thepetagrees.com THE-INTL
Tarek was born in Amman, Jordan and from an early age has had a love for animals. He met his spouse in Amman and then soon embarked on an expat lifestyle that took him to Dubai, Prague, and now Copenhagen. Originally a veterinarian, Tarek reinvented himself professionally and decided to launch his own company. With The Pet-agrees, Tarek has combined his veterinary experience with his entrepreneurial spirit. The Pet-agrees cares for pets in the Copenhagen area, offering services including pet-sitting, walking, and more to come soon. www.thepetagrees.com
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THE INVISIBLE WOMAN She is very real; even though middle-aged/elderly women are being portrayed a bit more recently, she is still hard to find in media. Which is a pity, as she very often has a lot to say! Just try these titles.
SUSAN JESSEN SPIELE LIBRARIAN Susan is a librarian at Roskilde Library, and in charge of the English section. She does English events all year; everything from expat dinners and pub quizzes, to karaoke nights and book talks. She is also busy with Roskilde Horror, a club dedicated to scaring the town.
PROVOCATIVE, WITTY AND LIGHT THE SUMMER WITHOUT MEN BY SIRI HUSTVEDT Mia’s husband asks for a pause after 30 years o f m a r r i a g e , t h r owing her completely. After a stay in a psychiatric ward, she returns to her hometown, living in a rented house near her mother’s nursing home. Slowly she gets involved with other women around her.
FUNNY, WARM AND MOVING THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL BY DEBORAH MOGGACH Enticed by ads for a luxury retirement home in India, a group of strangers leave England to begin a new life. However, they discover the palace is a working ruin, the staff are more than a little eccentric, and a new life is possible.
POIGNANT, COMPASSIONATE AND EMPATHETIC
COMPELLING, TENDER AND HILARIOUS
THREE THINGS ABOUT ELSIE BY JOANNA CANNON
ELIZABETH IS MISSING BY EMMA HEALEY
While waiting to be
Maud, an aging grandmother, is slowly losing her memory and her grip on everyday life. Yet she refuses to forget her best friend Elizabeth, who she is convinced is missing and in terrible danger. But nobody will listen so she has to figure it out alone.
found after a fall, Florence wonders if a terrible secret from her past is about to come to light and why the charming new resident looks exactly like a man who died sixty years ago? And what about Elsie?
DID YOU KNOW? In the past years, more seasonal celebrations have been sneaking into Denmark, Halloween, to mention the biggest. But also the Chinese New Year has become a yearly party at Roskilde Library. 23rd of January 2020, we welcome the Year of the Rat with a potluck dinner at 18.30 and everybody is welcome! See more at https://www.roskildebib.dk/sektion/internationals
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PICS COURTESY OF: CÉLINE MARTIN-PEDERSEN
LOOKING FOR TEAM MEMBERS!
WE ARE LOOKING FOR INTERNS THAT ARE SoMe SAVY, ENERGETIC AND ORGANISED TO COVER: ➤ SOCIAL MEDIA , EVENTS AND PHOTOGRAPHY * N O N - P A I D P O S I T I O N DO YOU LIVE IN THESE AREAS AND KNOW OTHER INTERNATIONALS? PLEASE SEND US YOUR CV: ➤ ODENSE / AARHUS / AALBORG / VEJLE / ESBJERG / R A N D E R S / B I L L U N D / H Ø R S H O L M / K A S T R U P / R O S K I L D E / N Æ S T V E D *OR ANY OTHER AREAS THAT HAVE A LARGE INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
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