A Journey Across Borders: The Different Me in Every City

In each country that I passed, there was a different me – a version of myself shaped by the people I met, the cultures I embraced, and the challenges I faced. Over the last 20-odd years, my work has taken me across more than 18 countries, each one leaving an indelible mark on who I am and who I’ve become.

Some of these places were familiar and comforting; others tested the limits of my resilience. But in every country, there was a unique “me,” born from the environment, the culture, and the circumstances of the time. These versions of myself didn’t last – they couldn’t. Yet, each one contributed to the person writing this newsletter today.

The Me in South Africa

Being born and starting my career in South Africa gave me a strong foundation in resilience and resourcefulness. The diverse cultures, economic challenges, and unique workplace dynamics taught me to adapt quickly and find solutions in even the most complex situations. My first step into the world of drilling for oil was on an oil rig more than 18 years ago, where Mike Patterson, a gentle giant of an OIM, unwittingly became my mentor. Mike taught me invaluable lessons about the oil and gas industry, but the most notable was this: you can be a manager and a friend. His leadership style shaped how I approach relationships in the workplace to this day.

The Me in Kazakhstan

The freezing winters of Kazakhstan demanded grit and adaptability. I learned the art of pushing through challenges when the environment was unrelenting, and I built relationships with colleagues who spoke a language I barely understood but communicated with me in the universal language of mutual respect. Ian Sharpe, my manager at the time, took a chance on me and taught me the importance of giving people opportunities to prove themselves in new environments.

The Me in Nigeria

Nigeria taught me patience and the importance of flexibility. In a place where things rarely go as planned, I learned to think on my feet and navigate situations with a level of calm I never thought possible. Here, I was reminded that adaptability is not just a skill; it’s a mindset. George MacCleod, with his unorthodox management style, showed me that one size does not fit all when pursuing excellence in management.

The Me in Singapore

Singapore was a stark contrast – a place of order and efficiency. It brought out the planner in me, someone who thrived on structure and precision. I became a more meticulous version of myself, appreciating the value of planning and execution in ways I hadn’t before.

The Me in Indonesia

Indonesia presented some of the most challenging drilling operations I’ve faced. The environment pushed me to stay innovative and determined. Miles Barrett, a colleague and mentor, taught me the value of curiosity and the importance of constantly striving to push the envelope for continuous improvement. Observing him reminded me that growth often comes from questioning the status quo.

The Me in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone was one of the most defining chapters. During the Ebola pandemic, I wasn’t just a safety manager; I became an educator, a confidant, and a source of stability in a time of chaos. The experience reshaped how I viewed leadership, not as an authority but as a responsibility to serve.

The Me in the South Caspian

My time in the South Caspian region was transformative. On a semi-submersible drilling rig with no existing safety system, I designed and implemented a world-class safety framework from scratch. Mads Tarp, a seasoned leader, supported me throughout this process and showed me that it was possible to build something exceptional with the right mindset and determination.

The Me in South Africa (DRA Experience)

Returning to South Africa and working in the mining construction industry allowed me to refine my leadership style further. Michael van Schalkwyk, with his mixture of servant leadership and behaviour management, showed me a different way of leading a team. He taught me the value of setting clear goals and allowing the team to use their initiative to reach them – without forgetting the importance of consequence management when needed.

The Common Thread

In every country and city, I left behind a version of myself. These “different me’s” never lasted because life and work demanded constant evolution. But they’re not lost; they’re etched into my being, their lessons and experiences woven into the fabric of who I am today.

Each country and city brought challenges and opportunities that forced me to grow. The grueling hours, the cultural differences, the unexpected friendships – all of it contributed to my journey as a leader and as a person. And while I’ve moved on from those places, their impact remains.

The Takeaway

Life is a series of transformations. Who we are today isn’t who we were yesterday, and it won’t be who we are tomorrow. As we move through life’s many landscapes – literal and metaphorical – we adapt, learn, and grow. We leave behind versions of ourselves, but we carry their wisdom forward.

As I reflect on these past 20-odd years of constant movement, I’m reminded of the value of embracing change. The next time you find yourself in a new city, a new role, or even just a new situation, remember you’re not losing yourself. You’re adding another layer to the incredible, multifaceted individual you’re destined to become.

Here’s to the journeys – and to the “you” in every city.