For over 20 years, I’ve lived and worked abroad with my family as an expat. Two continents, four countries, and countless cultures have shaped this chapter of my life — transforming me deeply, both personally and professionally.
I know what it feels like to start over, to feel out of place, and to search for direction — whether in a new country or a new professional role. These experiences have taught me how essential cultural awareness, openness, and thoughtful preparation truly are.
Just as mise en place and quality ingredients determine the success of a dish, solid intercultural understanding is key to successful collaboration, clear communication, and impactful action across cultural boundaries.
Cookbooks have always been part of my life — to me, they represent preparation, anticipation, and curiosity. That same mindset shapes my professional approach: those who are well-prepared don’t just understand cultural differences — they can actively use them to their advantage.
I was born and raised in Zurich, with a background in healthcare and business — two fields I never imagined leaving. But life had other plans.
Our expat journey began in Barcelona, followed by Dublin, a return to Switzerland, and today, São Paulo. At every stop, I reinvented myself professionally and discovered new perspectives.
I seized each opportunity to grow — whether working as a makeup artist in the creative world of film and fashion, or as a Pilates instructor with a focus on body awareness. These experiences sharpened my understanding of people, posture, and presence — qualities that now enrich my work with leaders and teams.
CultureNow was born from this mosaic of personal and professional experience. It is my platform to support companies, leaders, and their families as they navigate international transitions and challenges.
With advanced training in cultural transformation and a global network of trusted partners, I help build bridges — between people, cultures, and organizations.
When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find me in the kitchen. My passion for food has been shaped by experiences at Ferran Adrià’s culinary lab, the Hofmann School in Barcelona, and Le Cordon Bleu.
My life motto: Mens sana in corpore sano – a healthy mind in a healthy body.
Had I known then what I know now, I could have avoided a few detours — whether as an expat, a leader, or an entrepreneur.
Monica Angst