MY AUSTRALIAN JOURNEY.
From Paralegal to Digital Marketing Manager.
Introduction
Hi, I’m Victoria Barbe.
At the age of 24, I embarked on a transformative journey in Australia in 2022, following a period of burn-out. At the time, I was in a relationship with a partner, whom we'll refer to as 'M'."
Join me on this journey as I navigate through challenges and setbacks, ultimately blossoming into a new version of myself on this path of self-discovery.
2022
LEAVING FOR AUSTRALIA
MAY / JUNE
During the final stages of my law master's degree, I dedicated my focus to my thesis on "International Child Abduction and International Divorce from an EU/UK Perspective." Alongside this academic pursuit, I pursued an internship at Law Firm IMAVOCATS, specializing in corporate and taxation law. To support myself financially during this time, I also took on additional work in bars and shops.
I had previously arranged a trip to Lisbon with my brother, fulfilling a promise made to him upon his high school graduation. Following through on our plans, we spent several days exploring the city together, creating cherished memories along the way.
JULY / AUGUST
Continuing my internship and juggling multiple summer jobs to maximize my savings, I remained steadfast in pushing forward toward my goals.
SEPTEMBER
Taking 15 days off in Paris to visit friends, I had a moment of profound realization. I came to understand that my relentless work wasn't solely driven by financial necessity, but also by a subconscious avoidance of confronting the emotional aftermath of my mental well-being.
Motivated by this insight, I took action and renegotiated my contract with the law firm, ensuring a fair salary that reflected my contributions and dedication.
GETTING READY
OCTOBER
Having discussions with my ex- partner, "M", about the possibility of relocating abroad, we explored options in both Canada and Australia. After thorough consideration, I made the decision to proceed with the move, regardless of whether he chose to join me or not.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
He chose to come along, selling all his belongings, terminating his lease, and preparing to depart for Australia with me.
We organized farewell parties, including his birthday at the end of November, and celebrated a joyous Christmas with my cousins at my house. Our departure for Australia was set for December 26th.
2023
AUSTRALIA
JANUARY
Upon arriving in Australia, “M” and I celebrated the New Year amidst Melbourne's fireworks. However, our joy was short-lived as I fell ill soon after, requiring hospitalization. The diagnosis was internal bleeding, prompting transfusions and a transfer to another hospital. Miraculously, doctors later announced that the bleeding had ceased, though the cause remained unknown. I spent five days in the hospital and upon discharge, I joined “M” at the Arbory Afloat, immersing ourselves in a vibrant mix of cultures and people from around the world.
FEBRUARY / MARCH
Winter was approaching faster than expected, so we decided to work as much as possible and prepare for a road trip. With French friends from the Arbory, we left Melbourne to travel up the East Coast to Brisbane. It was a blast, but upon reaching Brisbane, we found it didn't suit us at all. “M” and I, made a quick decision to head back to Sydney, thinking it'd offer more job opportunities and a better fit for settling down.
AVRIL /MAY
“M” found a job more quickly than I did, so I found myself balancing two part- time positions. However, I eventually secured a full-time job with the opening of a new Pan-Asian restaurant in Bondi Beach. I encouraged “M” to join the adventure as a bar manager, which he gladly did.
JUNE / JULY
Things took a turn for the better, and we were having a blast! Later on, the Group Beverage Manager of Harry’s was on his way back to the US and recommended “M” to the boss to be his successor. Without much negotiation, “M” was slated to receive a two-year sponsorship at LULU as a Group Beverage Manager of the 4 institution own by Harry.
While it was a fantastic opportunity, the intensity of life in Australia had taken its toll, and “M” felt the need to reconnect with friends and family back in France. Initially, I suggested a break in Bali, but he insisted on France, so that's where we headed.
TURNING POINT
AUGUST
In August, I cherished every moment with family and friends while being back in France for the European Summer.
Initially, “M” was eager to return to Sydney, but later hesitated. Despite the uncertainty, we proceeded to book our flights. However, three days before our departure, “M” informed me and our General Manager (GM), that he no longer wanted to come back. This sudden change forced us to quickly readjust plans. I returned to Sydney alone while our GM's friends stepped in as our new managers to join LULU’s adventure.
MY SOLO JOURNEY
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER
As my own adventure unfolded, I realized my Working Holiday Visa was going to expire soon, at the end of December.
If I had completed the required 88 days of farm work as mandated by the Australian government, I could have renewed my WHV for another year.
Unfortunately, upon my return, it was too late to proceed with this option, leaving me with the costly alternative of applying for a student visa. Determined to stay, I took extra hours at the restaurant to afford the expenses associated with the student visa.
Additionally, I began working for "Le guide des pack-backers en Australie" as a copywriter. I also started created digital contents for the restaurant where I was employed, as well as other businesses in Bondi Beach.
NOVEMBER
I had to leave my room in Bondi Beach and relocate to another room in Vaucluse, sharing an apartment with two Australian girls. The apartment boasted an ocean view from both the terrace and my bedroom, which was absolutely breathtaking.
I continued working seven days a week, maximizing my hours wherever possible. Simultaneously, I launched my own website "buzzing around” and my marketing company “BOLD”, where I showcased my portfolio of content creation, articles, and marketing strategies.
DECEMBER
Despite challenges, my determination remained unwavering. I had to cover the expenses for the student visa ($700), insurance ($700), school fees ($1400), as well as the costs associated with transferring the lease for the room I was subletting, including the bond ($1400) and furnishings ($400).
Once all these payments were settled, I maintained my rigorous work schedule before traveling to Ho Chi Minh City in mid-January, where I was gathering with my family.
2024
GROWTH
JANUARY
Although I was working at the restaurant, I also delved into blogging, content creation, and explored TikTok, all while learning extensively about digital marketing.
An opportunity arose when I landed an interview for a new job in this field with an Australian startup looking to expand its business in France. It seemed like the perfect fit for someone with my skills and experience.
Following my incredible vacation in Ho Chi Minh City, I began working for the startup, marking the start of an exciting new chapter. However, discovering Vietnam for the first time made me realize that Australia wasn't the final destination for me.
There were so many more countries waiting to be explored before I could settle down somewhere permanently.
FEBRUARY / MARCH
I continued working full-time at LULU, part-time at the startup, and managed my own company on the side. My General Manager approached me about the opportunity to become Restaurant Manager beginning of March.
I took over the challenge. However, my desire to explore other countries and continue forging my path elsewhere intensified….
APRIL
I came to the profound realization that I had achieved my initial goal of transitioning from Law to Digital Marketing in a foreign company. This marked a significant milestone in my journey.
I made the decision to resign from my position at LULU by the end of the month, knowing it was time to move forward to the next chapter of my life.
Before departing, I savored my final moments in Sydney, organizing a heartfelt farewell party to express gratitude to friends and colleagues.
To my surprise, the owners of the startup I had been working for expressed their desire to continue collaborating with me, even from afar. Exciting!
AUSTRALIAN FAREWELL
MAY
I embarked on a journey back to Vietnam, where I reunited with old friends from Ho Chi Minh City and made new connections in Hanoi. My travels then led me to Bali, where I enjoyed the hospitality of a friend from Sydney and immersed myself in the island's beauty for a week.
Returning to France, I was welcomed warmly by loved ones in Lyon, where we gathered for precious moments together.
Today, May 15th, marks the beginning of a new chapter as I officially continue working for this Australian startup, “SERVDCards”, remotely.
Feeling grateful for the transformative experiences and opportunities that have shaped me into a better version of myself.
