Monika Tame’s decision to move to the UK 18 years ago was fuelled by curiosity and a desire to explore new opportunities. Born in Poland, with a childhood partly spent in Germany and a French grandmother on her father’s side, her upbringing was as multicultural as her life is now. “I love exploring other countries,” she explains. “And it was one option to explore the UK.”
Before Tame arrived, her idea of life in Britain was shaped by films and stereotypes. “The only imagination of the UK that I had would be from English movies,” she says. “I would see beautifully elegant-dressed people and English cabs, so that was my imagination.” Adjusting to the reality of life in the UK meant embracing its complexities, far beyond the polished portrayal she once envisioned.
Building a new life here hasn’t always been easy, particularly with family scattered across Europe. “I try to balance, but from time to time it’s very challenging,” Tame admits. “Visiting them requires taking some time off, but it’s very important for me to keep relationships with everyone.” Despite the challenges, Tame makes an effort to stay connected, cherishing her roots while also integrating into British culture. Celebrations are a fusion of traditions. “My partner’s English, therefore we would celebrate in an English way and a Polish way,” she says, combining elements from both cultures.
Navigating cultural differences brought its own set of challenges. “The biggest struggle at the beginning was honesty,” Tame reflects. “I had to learn that people very often are diplomatic and not necessarily honest. Sometimes they cannot express themselves, so they could be reserved.” This adaptation tested her understanding but ultimately taught her new ways of communicating.
While Tame hasn’t experienced professional discrimination, personal incidents have left a mark, particularly during Brexit. She recalls the heightened tensions of that time, noting how media coverage shaped public attitudes. “During Brexit, there were lots of press publications and people talking openly about immigration and its negative impact,” she explains. “I had a few comments towards me randomly in the shop or on the street. I think the press made quite a big impact, influencing people to think negatively about immigration.”
This influence isn’t limited to the UK. Tame feels that media portrayals, both in Britain and Poland, often misrepresent immigrants. “Polish press very often describes people in a certain way, and sometimes I disagree with that,” she says, pointing out how stereotypes can paint an inaccurate picture of Polish people living abroad. “They don’t know everyone’s circumstances, and it creates views that aren’t always a true picture.”
Despite these challenges, Tame’s outlook is optimistic. She sees immigrants making meaningful contributions across various sectors. “I know lots of people from different backgrounds, different countries here,” she says. “They work in different areas, they support the British community, the NHS, the police.” Watching these efforts slowly reshape opinions gives her hope. “It helps British people to change opinions and views about immigrants,” she adds, believing that these contributions will continue fostering understanding and unity.
Tame’s advice reflects the mindset that has guided her journey, embracing openness and curiosity. She encourages others to “be as open-minded as possible” and to build connections across communities. For her, making friends and exploring different cultures, whether through food or celebrations, has been key. “My advice, which I implement in any area of my life, is curiosity. So have curiosity in everything around you,” she says. This approach has helped Tame not only thrive in a new country but also remain deeply connected to her roots.
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