08/11/2024
Our wonderful CAREGiver Vesna, shared a bit about Croatian culture with us this week.
Dia duit, Vesna is ainm dom.
Hello, my name is Vesna, but many people call me Vanessa.
My culture is rooted in the warmth and resilience of Croatian heritage, with unique influences from my home region of Istria, a small bilingual peninsula on the Adriatic Sea where both Italian and Croatian are spoken. Historically, Istria was once part of Italy, and this blend of influences is woven into our culture, food, and customs. Growing up in Istria, I learned the importance of family, community, and respecting traditions—values I bring with me each day as a CAREGiver.
In Croatian culture, it’s common for children to care for their elderly parents at home, and older adults only move to specialized facilities if health needs truly require it. This tradition makes my work with Home Instead even more meaningful, as I can visit clients in their homes, helping them stay in familiar surroundings, which brings me great joy.
After working as a designer, where creativity was key, I felt a calling to move to Ireland—a beautiful country with generous people—and to bring my creativity into caregiving. I am truly impressed by Irish culture, especially the traditional step dancing and music, which I would love to learn. Above all, I am passionate about learning a few words in the Celtic Irish language. Growing up in such a rich, blended culture taught me to value diversity and find common ground with others, helping me connect with my clients and appreciate their unique backgrounds and stories. This adds to the joy and purpose I feel every day as a CAREGiver.
