Mogadishu turned my life upside down
Anca Dobre from Romania switched from a long career in the banking industry to an international life in Mogadishu, Somalia.
After more than 10 years in the banking system, I was a bit bored, the work wasn’t challenging for me anymore and I wanted a big change, something to get me out of my comfort zone. I was accepted for an interview with EUCAP Somalia but I was reluctant at first. After some hesitation I changed my mind, conducted the interview, and was offered the job.
Anca didn’t know anyone in the EU-system or in Somalia and was in her own words ‘’pretty nervous’’ when landing in Africa for the first time. She started to read a lot about Somalia and the local culture in order to better understand the environment and politics of the country such as the clan system.
On top of the professional changes, Anca’s personal life turned upside down in Somalia when she fell in love with her Swedish colleague. Now the two of them share a beautiful house in The Hague, Netherlands.
Currently she works as the Verification Officer for EUAM Iraq.
Tell us about your daily work?
My work as a Verification Officer is very much linked to the finance, procurement, and the HR units of the Mission. I receive all the Mission’s documents that have financial implications, and my job is to make sure that all of them are in compliance with EU rules and regulations. Finally, I submit the paperwork to the authorizing officer for approval.
How do you find working with colleagues from many different backgrounds?
I enjoy the multicultural dimension of the Mission. It’s fascinating to learn about new countries and cultures and discover similarities or, on the contrary, things that make us so different and unique. I also like to socialize with my colleagues, play sports and have joint gatherings such as cooking nights.
What has been the most rewarding or memorable experience for you in the Mission so far?
My birthday celebration in Baghdad. My colleagues had organized a cake for me with my name on it. The Mission’s Deputy Head of Mission had prepared a nice speech, which was very touching.
If you could live anywhere, where would you choose?
This one is easy. It would be in Greece. I love all aspects of the country, the language, the culture, the sea, the food and the people. I’m actually a Romanian-Greek translator by profession.
What is something your colleagues don’t know about you?
As a child, I was doing hard-core training in women’s gymnastics. However, I had to quit due to severe back pain.
I also practice yoga once a week with a private yoga instructor. It took me almost a year to enjoy this practice, but now I am quite a fan. My instructor is great, I’m bonding very well with her, and I love the way she always manages to bring out the best in me.
What was the last gift you gave to someone?
I gave an Apple watch to my partner as a pre-birthday gift since I’m not home for his birthday. I also bought another small gift, a wallet, and asked his kids to hide it and organize a treasure hunt while I’m gone for the actual birthday.
What is your usual order at a restaurant?
Any type of seafood. One of my best friends from university time has opened an Italian restaurant in The Hague, “La Piazzetta di Lauro” and I go there a lot. My usual order is “fritto misto di calamari e gamberi” or “polpo con patate”, two dishes that I recommend with all my heart
How do you relax?
On a beach holiday in Greece. I love to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea, the water is so clear. In my current hometown The Hague, nothing beats long walks on the beach. I really enjoy the smell of salty air and the sea.