Spending time in Sydney has been an incredible experience that taught me so much about doing business and connecting with people in a new cultural setting. When I first arrived, I was mostly excited to see the iconic spots like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, but I quickly realized there’s way more to this city than just its landmarks.
The business speaker events were a major highlight. Hearing from local leaders about handling challenges like sustainability and staying innovative opened my eyes. One thing that stuck with me was how forward-thinking Australian businesses are—they’re always planning for the future instead of just reacting to what’s happening now. That’s definitely something I want to apply to my own goals in the future.
Outside of the business side, I got to experience so much of Sydney’s culture. Walking through the Royal Botanic Gardens and visiting St. Mary’s Cathedral gave me a deeper appreciation for the mix of history and nature that this city offers. And of course, the beaches at Bondi and Manly didn’t disappoint—there’s something about the beach lifestyle here that just makes everything feel more relaxed and fun.
Going to a Sydney FC soccer game was another highlight. The energy of the crowd and seeing how much Australians love their sports made me feel really connected to the culture.
Looking back, my initial impressions of Sydney barely scratched the surface. I expected to learn about business, but I didn’t realize how much I’d grow personally. Traveling here taught me about the importance of balancing work with enjoying life and building strong relationships, which is a lesson I’ll carry with me. This trip has been life-changing, and I’m so grateful for everything I’ve learned here.
