In this episode of Career Sparks with Val, host Val talks to Monica Matei, Experience Designer and Founder of Ceremonica, whose powerful events invite people—especially expats—to explore identity, belonging, and transformation through intentional connection.

Monica shares how creating The Foreigner’s Journey helped her reclaim her own story as an expat—and why experiences have the power to change how we relate, not only to others but also to ourselves.

Key takeaways:

• Experience design is emotional architecture: it’s about intentionally shaping how people feel, not just what they do.

• The expat experience creates a "third culture": living between identities can feel disorienting but is also full of creative possibility.

• Holding space requires strength: facilitators must do their own emotional work to guide others without centering themselves.

• The “in-between” is a powerful space: being a foreigner isn't a limitation, it’s a vantage point rich in perspective and innovation.
• Find your people: when considering a career path, finding other people who share the same passions can build the support you need.

• Experiment first, integrate later: try small creative steps, reflect, and build from what you learn.

• You can create your own path: Monica didn’t find her role; she created it by combining passions, people, and purpose.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about building community, designing meaningful events, or simply navigating life between cultures.

🎧 Tune in now

Ceremonica's website is here.

Follow them on Instagram, here.

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Original music by Renato Šoša

Recording and producing by Valeria Kadelski