“I have spent my life searching for a place to truly call home” – Alka Paul on navigating between worlds
Alka Paul’s story is one of resilience and adaptability, shaped by diverse cultural experiences and geopolitical upheavals. Born in Kuwait to Indian parents, she epitomizes the journey of second-culture individuals who navigate identity and belonging amidst dual traditions. The Gulf War disrupted her childhood, forcing her family to flee to India before returning to rebuild their lives in a post-war Kuwait. Now settled in Dubai, Alka reflects on her journey, offering insights into navigating cultural duality and creating a sense of home.
Hi Alka! Firstly, thank you so much for being here to share your story. Let’s dive right in. Would you like to introduce yourself and tell us: Who is Alka Paul?
Absolutely. I am part of Hapag-Lloyd’s Regional Compliance Team in the Middle East based out of Dubai. I have lived in Dubai for over 15 years, but much of my earlier life was spent in Kuwait, where my parents had moved in the 1970s. The Gulf War changed everything for us – we were forced to flee Kuwait! Overnight I became a refugee, journeying across the harsh roads and deserts of Baghdad and Saudi Arabia. At the time, I naively thought of it as an adventurous camping trip. Eventually, we made our way to India, where I stayed for a year before we could return to Kuwait and rebuild our lives in the aftermath of the war. While the Middle East has always been my geographical home, my identity as the child of Indian parents adds layers of complexity. Like many second-culture individuals, I often grapple with a sense of not fully belonging to either culture. This duality has profoundly shaped my worldview.
Alka Paul, Compliance Director, Region Middle East
A simple yet profound question like “What is your experience?” can break barriers and lead to mutual understanding.
What do you answer when someone asks you where you are from?
It is always a complex question. Born and raised in one country, later moving to another – I have spent my life searching for a place to truly call home. While I hold Indian nationality, I have spent very little time living in India. My heritage is Indian, but my experiences and connections are rooted elsewhere. In the Middle East, expatriates rarely attain citizenship, so despite decades in Kuwait or Dubai, I remain a guest. This absence of a definitive “home” can be isolating, yet it fosters a unique connection among second-culture individuals. We navigate the space between worlds, often appreciating the stability and rootedness others seem to take for granted.
How has the duality of both countries influenced your perspective on cultural values?
I balance Indian and Middle Eastern traditions, reflecting my upbringing. This has instilled in me an appreciation for diverse viewpoints and the ability to navigate complexities with empathy and adaptability. Growing up with exposure to different traditions, ways of thinking, and communication styles has taught me that there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution – something that is incredibly valuable in executing my role in compliance within the global shipping industry. Within my role in RME compliance, having such a background allows me to approach cross-border regulations with cultural sensitivity, tailor compliance practices to align with local and global standards, and communicate effectively across diverse teams. It also enhances my problem-solving ability by fostering flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that compliance efforts build trust and respect while supporting operational efficiency across diverse cultural and regulatory landscapes. I believe focusing on “shared values” rather than differences fosters genuine connections.
How do you think Hapag-Lloyd can support the aim of different cultures living and working together towards a common goal?
Transparency and connection are pivotal. People often hold back their thoughts simply because no one asks. A simple yet profound question like “What is your experience?” can break barriers and lead to mutual understanding. The compliance team at Hapag- Lloyd is highly diverse, fostering a rich exchange of views and opinions shaped by cultural sensitivities.
Hapag-Lloyd can turn cultural diversity into its greatest strength by creating a workplace where every voice matters and collaboration thrives. We can foster inclusivity by encouraging open dialogues, as demonstrated in our townhall meetings, while celebrating diverse perspectives and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Sharing personal stories is another powerful tool. When I proactively share my journey, it often encourages others to open, creating opportunities to discover shared experiences or values. My advice? Seek common ground. Whether it is work-related, personal, or even travel stories, there is always something that connects us. By removing barriers and building connections, we create an environment where individuals from all backgrounds come together to achieve shared goals.
Looking back on the first years of your life, shaped by juggling cultures, experiencing the Gulf War, and fleeing Kuwait, you are now living a safe life in Dubai. How does that make you feel?
In a word: calming. For much of my life, I lived in a state of heightened vigilance, whether due to the uncertainties of war or the risks of traveling to politically unstable regions for work. There were times when insecurity felt overwhelming, especially during riots and ambush bomb attacks while working in previous roles that required travel to Mogadishu, Somalia. Now, my life is marked by safety and stability. At Hapag-Lloyd, our well-being – physical, mental, and professional – is a priority. Relocating to Dubai was transformative for my personal peace. Unlike Kuwait, which remains more traditional and orthodox, The UAE is progressive, inclusive, and vibrant. Its multicultural environment has allowed me to feel more at ease, and perhaps for the first time, I have cultivated a sense of home. While my understanding of “home” may never align with traditional notions, I have built a life where I truly feel I belong.
Thank you, Alka. Your journey is an inspiring testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of finding connection amidst diversity.
Thank you. It has been a pleasure to share my story.
© Hapag-Lloyd AG