Navigating Identity and Wellness from Suriname to Spain with Jo-Ann With

In this episode of Flourish in the Foreign, we delve into the story of Jo-Ann, a 30-year-old Black Surinamese Dutch woman currently living in Amsterdam. Jo-Ann shares her complex journey from her hometown in Culemborg, the challenges of racial identity, and her decision to move abroad to Spain. She discusses the intricacies of building community, her experiences dating as a Black woman in Spain, and how immigrating has influenced her sense of wellness and personal growth. With candid insights, Jo-Ann sheds light on how living abroad can be both liberating and challenging, ultimately leading her to return to the Netherlands with newfound peace and purpose. This Episode Covers: Surinamese Maroon Heritage Growing Up in the Netherlands Journey to Spain First Year in Spain and COVID-19 Lockdown Experiencing Racism and Seeking Community Navigating Black Identity in Spain Cultural Differences and Community Dating Experiences in Spain Professional Challenges and Decisions Returning to the Netherlands     To learn more about this guest, go to their show notes page at flourishintheforeign.com/episodes   Flourish in the Foreign Resources Podcast Website (https://www.flourishintheforeign.com) Buy Me a Coffee  (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/flourishforeign) Join the Substack (https://christinejob.substack.com/)   Episode Credits: Christine Job-Creator, Host, Producer & Editor Zachary Higgs-Theme Music