Definition and Origin of the Term

 A Unique Yet Challenging Identity

I have always been fascinated by TCKs—not only because I naturally relate to them but also because I feel that the world has yet to fully integrate our uniqueness into modern-day practices. As TCKs, we often struggle with identity, connection, and a sense of belonging. We don’t fully identify with our home country (or countries, if you have multiple nationalities like me), nor do we completely belong to the host countries we’ve lived in.

However, I choose to focus on the positive aspects of being a TCK. Our experiences make us open-minded, globally aware, and highly adaptable—qualities that are invaluable in today’s world.

My Personal Journey as a TCK

If you’re reading this, it’s probably because this topic speaks to you, or perhaps you’re just curious. Either way—welcome!

A little bit about me: My name is Paola, and I freak out whenever people ask me where I’m from. Why? Because what does that even mean? Are you asking where I was born? Where my passport is from? Where I currently live? What I consider home? (The airport, haha—just kidding… but not really.)

To give you some context:

• My mom is from Belgium, and my dad is from Burundi.
• I was born in Belgium, but at the time, we were living in Senegal.
• Before I turned 18, I had moved to Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Kenya.
• Later, I decided to complicate my story even more by moving to Spain for university.
• I’ve lived in Spain (Madrid) for over seven years now and have also lived and worked in Dubai—the place where I felt the most understood as a TCK.

These experiences have shaped me beyond just terminology. They have given me a unique ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. I’ve also become hypersensitive and highly attuned to others’ needs—whether you call it empathy or life experience, it became clear to me that I needed to incorporate my personal background into my professional one.

Turning My Experience into a Coaching Business

That realization led me to launch my coaching business, focusing specifically on TCKs. Traditional coaching methods never resonated with me, nor did they fully address the challenges we face.

I have structured my coaching into two key areas:

1. Personal Coaching: Helping TCKs navigate cultural adaptability, self-identity, and cross-cultural communication.
2. Career Coaching: Assisting TCKs in choosing the right career path while considering their complex backgrounds.

My goal is to support individuals who relate to the complexities of being a TCK. Whether in personal growth or career development, I want to help those with specific goals work with a coach who not only empathizes with them but truly understands their experience.

Final Thoughts

I hope this blog post made you feel seen and provided some comfort. I know how lonely it can feel to be “the different one” or the “diversity token” in group projects or the workplace.

Like I said earlier—I see you. And I want to help you navigate these complexities with clear, concrete steps—all while having fun along the way!

With all my love, always,

Paola