A corner of my childhood

Today, I’d like to share a meaningful chapter from my childhood: one that has had a profound and lasting impact on making me the person I am today. I spent eleven formative years living in Australia — the majority of my early life was shaped by the experiences, culture, and environment of that country. Naturally, this long period of time left an indelible mark on me, influencing not only my memories but also my perspectives, values, and identity in ways I continue to carry with me.

Growing up in Australia was a unique and unforgettable experience. From a young age, I was surrounded by the warmth of the sun, the sound of waves crashing on the beach, and the laid-back rhythm of everyday life. My childhood was filled with small adventures riding bikes with friends through the neighborhood, school trips to the zoo or the bush, and lazy afternoons spent playing in the backyard.

Of course, school was a big part of my early life. I still remember wearing the school uniform, lining up for morning assembly, and hearing the bell that signaled the start of a new day. The teachers were kind, and the classrooms were full of laughter and learning. I made friendships that felt like they would last forever, and although time has passed, those bonds remain special in my heart.

Outside of school, weekends were all about family and nature. We often went to the beach, had barbecues at the park, or explored nearby trails. Life felt simple, free, and full of wonder. It was during these years that I learned the value of community, the joy of discovery, and the comfort of being surrounded by people who loved me.

Looking back now, I realize how much those early experiences shaped who I am. They taught me resilience, open mindedness and the importance of appreciating life’s little moments.

One of the things I loved most about my childhood in Australia was how active and outdoorsy my life was. I spent a lot of time outside, constantly moving, learning, and growing through different activities. I was involved in swimming, running, and ballet, each one teaching me something unique. Additionally, swimming was a huge part of my routine. With Australia’s warm climate and its love for water, it felt natural to spend hours at the pool, practicing my strokes and racing with friends. It wasn’t just about learning a skill; it gave me confidence, discipline, and a sense of calm every time I was in the water.

I’m so grateful for those experiences and the way they helped shape both my childhood and who I am today.

Some of my favorite childhood memories weren’t just from structured activities, but from the little moments in between the places we turned into playgrounds and the friendships that made every day feel like an adventure. One of the most unforgettable places I used to play was inside the Opera House. It might sound unusual, but to me, it was like our own secret world. I spent countless hours there with my friends Toby and Toeng, running around, laughing, and turning every corner into part of our imaginary games.

What I remember most vividly is hanging on the bars of the stairs, pretending we were climbing mountains or swinging from jungle vines. The echo of our laughter would bounce off the walls, and in those moments, the grand, iconic building didn’t feel formal or distant; it felt like home. Those carefree days, filled with imagination and friendship, are memories I’ll always treasure.

Reflecting on my time in Australia, it’s clear to me just how deeply those years shaped my childhood and laid the foundation for the person I am today. Every experience from the outdoor adventures and creative hobbies to the friendships and the places we turned into our own magical worlds left an imprint on my heart. It wasn’t just the things I did, but the freedom, joy, and curiosity that surrounded me while I did them.

Living in Australia gave me a childhood full of wonder, movement, and imagination. It taught me how to be independent, how to appreciate nature, and how to find happiness in both the little things and the big adventures. Most importantly, it helped me grow into someone who values connection, creativity, and a deep sense of gratitude for the memories that continue to shape my life today.

Those eleven years weren’t just a phase of growing up, they were the very heart of it. And even though I may have moved on physically, Australia will always remain a part of me. It was more than a place I lived in: it was home, and it will always be the backdrop of my most cherished memories.