As most of our World Bank families would agree, relocating to a new country can be both an exciting adventure and a daunting challenge, especially for families navigating the unfamiliar terrain of a new culture, language, and lifestyle. At the heart of making this transition smoother and more welcoming are the Local Connectors (LCs) of the World Bank Family Network (WBFN). These dedicated volunteers serve as invaluable guides, offering their time, expertise, and empathy to families adjusting to life in their new host countries. From sharing local tips to providing a friendly face in a foreign land, LCs embody the spirit of community and support that lies at the core of the WBFN mission.
Our LCs, Mila from Vienna and Nathalie from Madagascar, share their experience, giving us a peek into the difference their work makes in the lives of relocating families.
Mila – Vienna
Imagine stepping off a plane after a long journey, only to arrive at an empty apartment on a sweltering August day. Your air mattress has a hole, the pump for the backup is missing, and your cookware is still en route. It’s not just the discomfort—it’s the creeping sense of being unprepared, out of place, and alone in a new city. For many newcomers, this scenario isn’t hypothetical—it’s reality.
As the Local Connector, I’ve seen firsthand how acts of kindness can completely change someone’s experience. None of this would be possible without our incredible members who dedicate their time and energy to make WBFN a true community. From running a book club, yoga sessions, and a men’s club to organizing Ball outings and offering holistic support for body, mind, and spirit, their contributions are what make Vienna feel not just like a destination, but a home. Together, we do our best to ensure that no family has to navigate the journey alone.
One family shared their experience:
"When we arrived from Nairobi, the temperature outside was 36°C, and we were greeted by an empty apartment and a long list of things we didn’t have. We felt like the odds were stacked against us, and the thought of tackling it all alone was overwhelming. But with one message to the WBFN WhatsApp group, everything changed. Within hours, we had air mattresses, pots, pans, and the reassurance that we weren’t navigating this new chapter alone. Suddenly, this city didn’t feel so intimidating.
Nathalie - Madagascar
I am the WBFN Local Connector for Madagascar since 2023. I relocated to Antananarivo in mid-2021 with my husband and son from Washington, DC.
As a local connector, I greatly enjoy supporting World Bank families as they settle into their new assignments. I provide advice, organize social activities, and bring families together to build a sense of community. From hosting BBQs and yoga classes to encouraging participation in events like tree planting, I find joy in helping families connect and thrive.
Being part of the Family Network has been a truly rewarding and fulfilling experience.
As the stories of many like Mila and Nathalie illustrate, the efforts of our Local Connectors extend far beyond practical support. They create a sense of belonging, transforming new cities into welcoming homes and turning challenges into opportunities for connection. Their dedication and compassion highlight the strength of the WBFN community, where every member plays a role in making transitions not only manageable but truly memorable.
Thank you to our Local Connectors who best represent what it means to support one another globally!