Landing in Lion City: Real Talk About Moving to Singapore

Instead of leading with PowerPoint decks or job stats, the session kicked off with something far more compelling: personal stories shared through a panel discussion.

Siva Valliappan, a Singaporean who had spent years abroad, shared how returning home was more emotionally complex than he expected. Anja Kromkamp, originally from the Netherlands, reflected on her culture shock and how Singapore’s fast-moving pace eventually became something she grew to thrive in. Will Liu, a long-time consultant, spoke candidly about balancing business opportunities with family life in a new country. And Rachel Goh, Brunel’s Head of Operations for Asia, brought her perspective from the other side—helping hundreds of professionals relocate across borders and cultures.

It wasn’t about sugarcoating the journey. It was about showing the human side of mobility—how no two paths are the same, and how the tough parts often shape the most meaningful parts. The panellists shared practical insights into what employers are really looking for, especially in highly regulated industries like life sciences or engineering. And more than once, someone on the panel reminded us “It’s okay to not have it all figured out.” 

After the panel, the conversation didn’t stop. Online attendees joined small breakout groups based on themes like job searching, family relocation, and visa questions. 

Those on-site also visited booths by Expat Advising, Huttons, The Family Movers and Holland International School —resources that help make a foreign place feel like home, especially when you’re wondering about schools, neighborhoods, or how to ship that oddly shaped piece of furniture.

The Talent & Mobility Pathway Workshop showed just how universal the doubts and hopes really are:

1. “Is it possible to get hired in Singapore as a foreigner?”
2. “I’m in my 30s—am I too late to make a move?”
3. “What’s the culture like in the workplace?”
4. “How do I build a life, not just find a job?”

Our specialists and consultants didn’t pretend to have a magic formula. Instead, they offered lived experiences, practical tips, and thoughtful encouragement. From job search strategies to mindset shifts, the advice was as varied as the journeys that brought the clients and candidates to Singapore.