Michael AvilaIn our Northern Roots series, we speak to readers originally from Northern Ireland but currently living elsewhere, or vice versa. This week’s interviewee is Tatiana Trohin who grew up in Moldova and now lives in Belfast.
1. Tell us about yourself. When did you come to Northern Ireland and where did you come from? What brought you here? What do you do now?
I came to Northern Ireland in the autumn of 2016. I’m originally from Chisinau, Moldova. Prior to moving to Northern Ireland I was living in San Diego, California and Austin, Texas in the States before moving back to Europe.
My husband, Michael Avila, who you may by now be familiar with on Northern Slant, started studying at Queen’s University. The move to Belfast suited me, too, as I am now closer to my family.
I have recently completed a post-baccalaureate marketing certification programme at Belfast Met and I am working in banking. I hope to continue to utilise my background in marketing and graphic design.
2. What do you think of Northern Ireland, and how does it compare to where you are from?
I love Northern Ireland. I do sometimes miss the weather I had living in the US, as well as my family and the familiarity of Moldova, but I love the craic and I feel I have been very well-accepted here. In many ways, the culture here is more similar to Moldova than I found in the States, and I really appreciate that – especially the sense of humour! Moldova can be very politically and culturally divided, which I don’t like about home or here, but I do understand it and can relate to it well. Of course, everywhere has its pros and cons, but I am truly enjoying Belfast!
3. Are you hopeful for Northern Ireland’s future? Does Brexit have any impact on you and how you view the future?
I am hopeful. However, where I come from, positive political change does not happen very often. I know that sounds gloomy, but it’s the reality. I am more optimistic about the people here – I can see it in them, the positivity and hope for a better future. It’s an attitude I wish we had more of in Moldova. Northern Ireland’s economy is in a good state, which really helps things, too. That alone gives people more of a voice. Since moving here in 2016, most people my age seem to intermix and get on with each other, which is no doubt a positive sign for the future.
Brexit, at least at the moment, is not a concern for me in terms of residence. However, if Brexit results in a terrible economic downturn or social strife, then we may consider other options. But I don’t feel this is likely.
4. Do you think you will return home or do you plan to stay in Northern Ireland long term? Is there anything that may influence your decision either way?
The reality is I will likely never return permanently to Moldova to live and work, except for anything family-related. My husband and I are very open to travel and seeing the world, so it’s possible we would move again. But, certainly for the short- to medium-term, we are dedicated to Northern Ireland and happy with the way our lives are shaping here.
5. What can Northern Ireland learn from your home country?
Despite Moldova’s divided past and present, we generally get along with our neighbours and those we share our country with. We have a Romanian/European versus Russian divide and, while this does dominate our politics, we have never had prolonged violence associated with this since independence. This is true for various reasons, but I think it is important to remember that all societies have some sort of divide – whether cultural, political or social – but there are productive and healthy ways to deal with it that are alternatives to violence.
Of course, Northern Ireland no longer has major conflicts and this is great, but it is always important to learn from other cultures and how they’ve dealt with conflict and division. I think Moldova and Northern Ireland could actually learn a lot from each other.
You could also learn from our food – Moldova has amazing, underrated traditional food. No one’s cooking compares to my mom’s! She would definitely teach you a thing or two around the kitchen!
6. If Northern Ireland had a president with sweeping powers, and it was you, what would you do?
I would give everyone fair and equitable access to the best education possible in order for everyone to lead more productive and meaningful lives.
7. What would you like to see more of on Northern Slant?
I would like to see more articles outside of politics. Perhaps it is where I come from, but politics is overwhelming, here and in other places. Belfast is such a fascinating and thriving city with so much going on. I think a more positive focus on what’s going on throughout the community will have a more positive effect on how we view society as a whole.
8. If you could ask three politicians (one from Northern Ireland) out to dinner, who would they be and why?
I’m not a fan of politicians! I’d rather have dinner with my mom!
9. Do you have a favourite quote or mantra?
“Ats us nai!”
10. What’s your message for people back home?
The sky is the limit!
