When someone asks me ‘So where are you from, Dejana?’; I often find myself hesitating, unsure of the best response. The most fitting answer I can muster is ‘a gypsy, a nomad’ with a playful smile.

My roots trace back to Sarajevo, where I was born to a Croatian father and a Bosnian mother, amidst the remnants of former Yugoslavia. However, my upbringing was far from stationary. My parents were seasoned expatriates, leading us on a journey through Indonesia, India, and Egypt, where I completed my secondary education at an American School.

My academic pursuits led me to study architecture and obtain my RIBA certification in Newcastle, while simultaneously immersing myself in the vibrant culture of the North of the UK. Unfortunately, the outbreak of war in ex-Yugoslavia abruptly altered my trajectory.

Seeking stability, I ventured to Canada, where my parents settled also for a while, and where fate introduced me to my French husband, Pierre. After more than four years in Canada, we both became Canadians at which point Pierre’s career propelled us across continents, spending six eventful years in France, where we welcomed our two children, Nicholas and Eva, amidst the picturesque landscapes of Paris, Bordeaux, and Montpellier.

The health challenges faced by my son, coupled with dissatisfaction with conventional medical solutions, ignited a passion for natural approaches to healing. Despite my demanding role as a Project Manager in Brussels, I dedicated my evenings to delving into the realm of natural medicine, driven by a desire to find answers.

After yet another expatriation I decided to take a year off to settle the family. This transition provided me with the opportunity to delve deeper into natural medicine, eventually earning a degree in Naturopathy. The unexpected success of my practice led me to abandon Project Management entirely, embarking on a fulfilling journey of helping others reclaim their health naturally.

Our nomadic lifestyle continued, with stints in the Middle East, before our return to the Basque Country in 2017. Despite our initial declaration to settle permanently, the wanderlust within us beckoned once more. The children were gone to pursue their studies and last May, we made the move to Perigueux due to Pierre’s work commitments, marking almost a year since our relocation.

One lesson I’ve learned throughout our travels is the importance of forging connections and finding kindred spirits in each new destination. Associations such as the International Women’s Club, the American Association of Women, along with various French and British clubs, have been instrumental in facilitating our integration into new communities and we were delighted in our turn to offer support and a friendly shoulder to the newcomers.

Throughout our journey of nomadic living, we’ve forged profound friendships that remain steadfast regardless of our location. I’m excited to be part of the DLCI and am looking forward to meeting everyone in this lovely part of France.