UPDATE: Christine Job, a former lawyer from Atlanta, has transformed her life by moving to Spain and launching a business that helps Black women relocate abroad. Since her move in 2017, Job has dedicated herself to empowering others and has no intentions of returning to the United States.
Job, who graduated from law school in 2013, faced burnout and a desire for a slower, more intentional lifestyle. After a family tragedy prompted her to rethink her priorities, she made the bold decision to leave behind the bustling legal world of Atlanta for a new life in Spain.
In her new home, Job found herself living in Logroño, a quaint city in northern Spain’s renowned wine region. Initially teaching English to children, she embraced a significantly lighter workload of just 12 hours a week, prompting a redefinition of her understanding of success.
“I felt guilty about having so much free time,” Job shared. “But it became a turning point for me to live with intention.” As she adapted to her new environment, she began exploring her passion for podcasting, launching a platform dedicated to Black women’s experiences with migration.
Job’s podcast, which has now surpassed 150 episodes, highlights the diverse narratives surrounding Black women and migration, emphasizing that their stories often extend beyond struggle. Through her platform, she has connected with many highly educated Black American women who feel disillusioned with life in the U.S. and are eager to explore new opportunities abroad.
Relocating to Barcelona in 2018 further enriched her experience as she found a supportive community of young Black professionals. A subsequent trip around the world with her mother in 2019 exposed her to various cultures, but the onset of the pandemic in early 2020 brought an unexpected challenge. Instead of retreating, Job seized the moment to relaunch her consultancy and grow her podcast during the lockdowns.
Now residing in Valencia since August 2021, Job continues to thrive in Spain’s vibrant atmosphere. Living in the Old Town, she enjoys the city’s architectural beauty and the return of lively tourism. “Valencia is more relaxed than Madrid or Barcelona, offering a beautiful balance,” she noted.
Job acknowledges that living abroad isn’t without its challenges. Migration is a disruptive process filled with sacrifices. However, she believes the rewards far outweigh the struggles. “I’ve made friends from around the world, spoken on panels, and even judged at the International Women’s Podcast Awards,” she says.
As she continues to build her life in Spain, Job is also working on a book that encapsulates her journey and experiences abroad. While she maintains connections to her roots in the U.S., she asserts, “I don’t see myself moving back permanently. Once you’ve experienced a different way of life, returning to what you once knew becomes tough.”
Christine Job’s inspiring journey from burnout in Atlanta to empowerment in Spain underscores the transformative power of migration and the importance of pursuing a life that aligns with one’s values. Her story resonates with many and serves as a beacon of hope for those contemplating a similar leap into the unknown.
For more on Christine Job’s journey and her work with Black women moving abroad, follow her podcast and stay tuned for her upcoming book.
