Zunaira Ghalib Insights

My TCK Experience The reality for most people of my generation is that growing up across multiple cultures can be both enriching and confusing, especially when your environment is constantly changing. As someone born in India, raised in the UK, and later moved to Qatar at 14, I’ve often found myself caught between cultures, unsure of where I truly fit, or if I fit in anywhere at all. It wasn’t until much later that I realised there was a term for this relatable experience: a Third Culture Kid (TCK)—someone shaped by more than one cultural world. Growing Up Between Places While I started out in India and visited often, the UK shaped almost all of my early memories. My childhood there felt familiar and comfortable, and even my strong British accent became part of my identity. When I moved to Qatar in my early teens, everything shifted again. Attending an international school and being surrounded by people from diverse backgrounds expanded my perspectives but also made me rethink who I wa...

During the summer of 2025, I was lucky enough to take a two-week trip, with my family, to Indonesia. This journey was an unforgettable experience - not only because of the beautiful country and culture itself, but also because of the valuable lessons learnt in time management and immersion. About Indonesia: We visited three islands, spending around five days on each, where we toured cities, countrysides and nature's beauties. Each destination offered something unique, providing us a glimpse of Indonesian lifestyle. Furthermore, we were fortunate enough to have knowledgeable local guides on each island, who connected us with others and introduced us to traditional customs and foods, such as Nasi Goreng (their national dish). Everyone we encountered were incredibly hospitable and open, allowing us to not only explore the sites but also to gain a genuine understanding of the local life. Challenges faced: As there were eleven of us travelling together, coordinating plans and keeping tr...