Over 10,000 residents call the DQ home. Meet Your Neighbor profiles interesting people in our international DQ Community. Learn about the diverse experience, interests, and backgrounds of DQ dwellers. Read on, and Meet Your Neighbor.
Tell us about yourself.
I was born in Hawaii of Korean parents and raised in Tahiti. I met my proud Texan husband in University and together we have three children (only one is here with us as the two others are grown up). We lived in Hong Kong, Beijing, California, and now in Riyadh.
Throughout my adult life, I’ve done many things: raised our children, supported my husband’s career, volunteered at nonprofit organizations, helped friends with their startups, opened a couple of small businesses, ran a small company, and worked as a recruiter.
How would family and friends describe you?
I think my family and friends view me as busy, resourceful, talkative, perfectionist, strong, helpful, generous, simple, independent, organized and a hard worker. Many perceive me as an extrovert but I feel that I am both introvert and extrovert.
Who or what have been the strongest influences in your life?
My father was a source of great inspiration as I watched him work his way out of poverty for his family in a foreign country without speaking the language. My husband has always been another source of strength for me. He is very supportive in whatever I want to do or be.
What brought you to Riyadh?
My husband’s job as the new DQ Steward brought me to Riyadh.
What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?
I am proud and grateful for my children. I have two daughters who are grown up and living on their own in the USA and Hong Kong. My son is embracing life here. I am grateful for their multi-cultural background and understanding.
What are your thoughts and insights on being a resident of Saudi Arabia?
Being a resident here is very different from what I was told it would be like. It is a great time to be in the Kingdom. We get to witness this great country preparing for Vision 2030. I am always impressed with the vibrant and positive energy that is in the air. Here, one can dream anything and make it a reality. Look at each of the unique buildings in the city.
Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?
I love to be in the desert. There is something magical and beautiful about it — the silence from the noise of the city, the stars, the non air-conditioned air. The desert somehow recharges my batteries.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
When I first arrived at the DQ, I immediately fell in love with it. I thought that it had some of the most beautiful streets in Riyadh. I have been living in the DQ for almost a year now; I still feel the same way today.
What do you like most about the DQ?
Every time I arrive in the DQ, I catch myself sighing in relief “I’m home” as I enter the gates. There is a definite sense of tranquility and safety here. I love being able to take walks on the DQ trails or neighbourhood streets. I also love the cultural diversity the DQ offers. It is truly a unique place to live in.
What are you looking forward to in the coming season?
The weather is getting really nice to be outside. It is time to get out and get moving. I just created a group called Active DQ Women to encourage each other to get/stay active while getting to know our neighbors in the DQ. This project is in its early stages. I am really looking forward to connecting with people here.
Photo credit: venturestudios
