A "front-row seat" in the international arena

Tamara Lobzina is a multilingual Young Leader with a wealth of international experience. Her interest in foreign languages and cultures began when she was young – she began learning French at the age of six. By 12, she had moved to New Zealand from the Ukraine, and found herself immersed in an entirely new culture. “My first priority was to learn English and learn as much as possible about my new surroundings.”

Tamara went on to study political science and French at the University of Auckland. In her third year she returned to Europe to complete three courses at La Sorbonne and La Universidad de Salamanca.

Postgraduate study has brought with it a new geographical focus – East Asia – as Tamara works toward a Masters in international area studies at Seoul National University. “Although South Korea may seem like an unlikely option for someone with my background, I couldn’t be happier to have the opportunity to live and study in Asia. I think this region will play a significant role on the international arena and hopefully my experience here will guarantee me a seat in the front row.”

Aside from her study, Tamara enjoys socialising with friends, reading classical literature, trips to the beach and checking out music festivals.

Tamara is currently doing an internship at Forbes Asia in her summer break, to gain experience in the media industry.

“So far I have been helping update the organisation’s homepage, and eventually hope to write an article or two which will be featured on the website.”

Her time in Hong Kong has helped Tamara realise how quickly she has adjsuted to life in South Korea. “It has highlighted the cultural differences of Korea that after two years have become a part of my everyday life – like bowing, talking quietly on public transport, eating spicy foods. It was interesting for me to realise just how accustomed I have become to Korean traditions.”

Tamara is looking forward to meeting other Young Leaders living and working in Hong Kong, and is enthusiastic about future opportunities, and exploring more of Asia when she can. “I have a long list of places I still have to visit and I cannot wait to have the opportunity to do so once I am not constrained by the student budget!”

Image:
Tamara in Heyri village, outside Seoul