As the hope of securing a UK work visa disappeared, I disappointedly packed my bags and moved back across the ocean. It was very hard to give up London but I had to call it quits for the sake of my sanity and my bank account. However, for some reason, I did not decide to relocate to the United States, where I lived for the past eight years. Instead, I chose to return to Trinidad and Tobago – the motherland. I felt the dramatic shift physically as my body got used tot the humid heat, and mentally as my mind readjusted to being back in the Caribbean. Though I visit Trinidad every year, it felt weird not having a return flight booked.

Through my transition, my primary goal remained the same – to secure a job.

Moving to a familiar place isn't as easy even if I have legal rights to work. There are a few things I must consider as I enter the workforce. Trinidad and Tobago's economy is drastically smaller than the U.S. and U.K., so my approach has to be tweaked. With the recent change in government officials, I will need to learn how to navigate the job market under this new regime.

To refrain from becoming overwhelmed, I decided to create short-term goals to get somehow “set up” as a job candidate. Some examples of my current projects include:

Acquiring and renewing the proper documentation to work

Establishing a bank account

Updating my CVs

Making professional connections

Researching how your job sector exists in the current economy

I realised listing these goals helped put my job search on the right track. Starting over in a new market can be scary so taking small steps to reach a long-term aim may be a good option to consider. Also remember you are not alone! There are many young professionals switching towns, cities and countries every day.

Check out Rory Broughal on his return to Ireland here.

As I continue to learn the job market, I hope to pick up habits and learn skills that will contribute to my professional ability and worth. In the meantime, I will enjoy spending time with family and living life in the sun!

Happy New Year! xx

Kadelia Achille is a recent Masters graduate and a newbie to the Trinidad and Tobago job market. Currently sending out CVs under the Caribbean sun!