Expat partner Leoné Eland-Ilunga put her own career on hold while raising her young family in Sweden. Now, with support tailored to her circumstances, she is ready to pursue ambitions of her own.
Winter blues
After relocating to Malmö in 2023, Leoné admits the long Swedish winters came as a shock. “For the first couple of years, I really struggled with the darkness,” she says. “The sun sets at about 3pm and by 4pm it’s dark. I felt quite low.” Like many newcomers, she gradually learned how much preparation matters. “The Swedes always say there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! So now I have all the proper winter gear and I always take my Vitamin D supplements. That definitely helps.”
A pause for family
In South Africa, Leoné worked as a Quality Assurance Manager in Cape Town; she also has a degree in Human Resource Management. After moving to Sweden, she focused on supporting her children. Her eldest daughter, now 11, adapted quickly, thriving at school and growing in confidence. Her youngest son, however, was just four months old when they arrived. “It’s easy to underestimate how much your children need you after an international move,” she reflects. “For a couple of years, my professional life has been on the back burner. I’m more than ready to get back out there and do something for myself.”
New skills, new plans
With her son now old enough to attend förskola, Leoné has begun making full use of the expatriating company’s partner support programme. She has enrolled in Swedish language classes; she’s also training as a nail technician, inspired by a long-standing interest in nail art and beauty. “While I still plan on utilising my degree professionally, I’m focused now on doing a nail course and setting up my own home-based business, which I would continue even if I find work in HR. I think there’s a market for nail art and perhaps braiding, here in Malmö.”
Looking ahead
Leoné says the personalised support has been key, helping her focus on realistic goals while rebuilding her confidence. She is particularly grateful for the guidance of her Global Connection consultant, Ines Ahrens, who understands the emotional ups and downs of relocation and has offered practical advice throughout the process. When I speak to Leoné, summer has finally arrived in Malmö. “I’m very happy to see the sunshine again!” More importantly, she feels ready for a new chapter. “I haven’t had something that was just for me in a long time. I’m excited to start pursuing my own goals again.”
Photos: Leoné (centre) with her family
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