In the latest of our Northern Roots series, where we speak to people originally from Northern Ireland but currently living elsewhere – or vice versa – our interviewee is Susan Whitla in London.

 

1. Tell us about yourself. When did you leave Northern Ireland, and where did you go? What do you do now?

I left Northern Ireland in 2014 when I was working as a Management Consultant for Deloitte after my law degree. I was based in the Belfast office, but my biggest and most interesting projects were based in mainland UK. I had made a lot of great friends in London through my projects and the graduate scheme, trips and training and when I realised I’d just taken 88 flights in nine months, I decided it might be time for a stint in London. Shortly afterwards, I got approached to independently consult one of the biggest UK law firms on innovation, and later joined another international law firm to lead up their legal innovation team. Three years in, I’m feeling much more settled in London than originally intended!

 

2. What do you think when you see the Northern Ireland of today, in the news and on social media?

When I first moved to London I was very surprised at how little of the news from home made it onto the UK headline news or London papers, meaning I needed to find my own ways to keep up (Northern Slant!). As time went on, exposure to more nationally-focused news put some of the politics of NI into perspective and I now find lack of political progress even more frustrating.

In contrast, my social media accounts paint a much happier, brighter account of Northern Ireland. My social networks and the young generation in general appear politically aware but they are not shackled by the past. Their accounts show there is a lot more to Northern Ireland than this.

 

3. Are you hopeful for Northern Ireland’s future? Will Brexit make a difference?

Even since I left, there has clearly been significant investment in Belfast, and I feel very proud bringing new friends back to the vibrant, friendly increasingly modern city. Unfortunately, I believe Brexit will negatively impact most of the UK, but with the momentum that has been built I remain optimistic that its future will be better than its past. I have wondered if there may be any opportunity for Northern Ireland to strategically position itself as a place for business with links to the UK and EU market – although I imagine this is wishful thinking!

 

4. Do you think you will return to Northern Ireland? What could convince you to come back?

It’s an oft made statement, but I would happily consider returning to Northern Ireland if there more of the right type of careers for myself and my partner. I love a challenge, and I am currently working with Invest NI to determine whether there are further opportunities for law firms to set up in Northern Ireland, so watch this space.

 

5. What can Northern Ireland learn from the place you live now?

I’d be keen for more people in Northern Ireland to move away from the 9-5, ‘living for the weekend’ state of mind. In London, the more common mind-set is to treat every evening as an opportunity for socialising, exploring or doing something new. People settle down later and there is not the same pressure to rush home to spouses. Social networks are wider and I feel that this is positive for self-discovery and helps differentiate your twenties from later in life when you have more responsibilities.

 

6. If Northern Ireland had a president with sweeping powers, and it was you, what would you do?

Introduce mandatory integrated education in Northern Ireland for every child. Our universities, workplaces and wider society are integrated. Why continue to propagate divisions in society by teaching our children that we need to be divided?

 

7. What would you like to see more of on Northern Slant?

Perhaps more information about, and reviews of, events in Northern Ireland to inspire readership to make the most of what’s already going on in the city and encourage more activity in the future!

 

8. If you could ask three Northern Ireland politicians (past or present) to dinner, who would they be? And why?

Naomi Long, Chris Lyttle and David Ford – I have great respect for each of them and they are such lovely people.

 

9. Do you have a favourite quote, or mantra?

“A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery while on a detour.”

 

10. What’s your message for people back home?

Our wee country is fabulous, always be proud of where you came from but don’t be afraid to see what else is out there. You never know who you could meet or where it could take you.


Also published on Medium.