Aging Abroad in Dubai with Dr. Tiffany L. Smith
SEASON 7 EPISODE 15 |Flourish in the Foreign - Black Women Living & Thriving Abroad
Meet Tiffany
Dr. Tiffany Lachelle Smith is an EDPAT. A term she coined to describe EDucational exPATriates working in schools outside of their home countries. With over a decade of experience in the education profession, Dr. Tiffany Lachelle has taught in the USA, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, where she's lived for nearly 10 years and currently serves as an Assistant Professor at a British University.
Connect with Tiffany
What has changed for you since your last appearance on the podcast?
The last time we spoke, I was completing my dissertation study on Black American teachers abroad. After graduating in 2022 with a degree in Comparative and International Education Development, I took on a position at the Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. I worked there for two years and shifted to a new position at the University of Birmingham, Dubai. I've been here for a year now.
How do you feel about aging abroad?
Aging is interesting because I'm approaching my fifth decade of life (40 years old), and I still have so much I want to do and be, and experience. It's graceful, and I'm also experiencing a shift where I feel as though I'm evolving into a newer version of myself. The UAE feels like home, and I plan to be here a while longer.
Reflections on healthcare, beauty, caring for aging parents, empty nesting, or aging transitions?
Family dynamics are shifting for me. Unmarried, no children, and learning to parent myself. Healthcare is interesting because I have to see a physical therapist, mental therapist, and psychiatrist - all resources that assist with showing up as my full self.
What’s your personal philosophy on aging gracefully?
The lyricist Lauren Hill said, "anything that's not growing is dead." As a plant mom, I think of aging as I do of plants. We need water, sun, and soil, but we also need constant attention, love, care, and a peaceful environment.
This Episode Covers:
Living Abroad: A Journey Through Different Countries
Life Changes and Pursuing a PhD
Reflections on Aging Abroad
Identity and Connection in a Foreign Land
Family and Sacrifice
The Reality of Living Abroad
Defining Community
Migration as Liberation
Wellness and Self-Advocacy
Episode Credits:
Christine Job-Creator & Host
Zachary Higgs-Theme Music
Subscribe to the Substack: https://christinejob.substack.com/
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