Alan Kevin Ferdinandus
Solace in a nation’s security
Q: How does the expatriate experience in Germany differ from your experiences in Scotland, Belgium, Singapore and India?
A: India is where I spent seven years as a student while I was in Belgium for vocational work in the summer and Scotland for a transition.
Germany is home to me since I’ve lived here since 1983 – to study, work and contribute to its social system. This has given me the security that I now have as a dialysis patient working from home.
Q: What cultural differences have you noticed between Sri Lanka and the countries you’ve lived in over the years?
A: The differences I’ve noticed in the EU are related to work.
And in ASEAN countries such as Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia, the main difference I have observed is the investments undertaken.
Q: Which country’s cuisine do you miss the most – and why?
A: I missSri Lankan cuisine – there is nothing like a good spiced up array of food!
Q: How has your perception of Sri Lankan culture evolved or changed since living in various international settings?
A: Culture to me is deeply rooted in its beliefs and traditions. From that perspective, Sri Lanka has dwindled and compromised.
In the 1960s and ’70s, the emphasis was on building the country; but with the rise of nationalism, many of us were pushed from its shores to find our homes elsewhere.
That is the saga of many Burghers and other ethnic groups, as well as businesspeople.
Q: What aspects of daily life in Germany do you find unique or different from your experiences in other countries?
A: Time is important, as is self-worth. Additionally, we enjoy access to opportunities within a well established infrastructure system so that we can function with ease.
Moreover, travel and unlimited internet provide 24/7 access across the board to initiate and do business with ease, from all platforms and forms of transportation.
Q: And finally, are you looking to undertake any new projects in the near future?
A: I have retired but hope to start two projects in Asia – viz. vertical farming and prefabricated housing models.
CV IN A NUTSHELL
Alan Kevin Ferdinandus considers himself to be self-motivated and says he has always looked to achieve perfection in anything he puts his mind to – be it photography, business or personal endeavours.
Having slowed down due to illness, he credits God’s grace for his ability to walk and return to the workforce. In Ferdinandus’ view, the best retirement is doing something for society.
FACT FILE
FAMILY
Three children (all living in the EU)
SCHOOLING
Wesley College
HIGHER EDUCATION
Senate of Serampore College
PRESENT OCCUPATION
Business developer and freelancer
COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE
Germany
CITY OF RESIDENCE
Frankfurt