Sun Child, Nomad, Account Manager , Valparaíso, Chile
Meeting and interacting with interesting, well-travelled and open-minded women is always a pleasure. I met Ms. Patricia Heiden in a small town on the Chilean coast. Patricia is so lovely, tactful, strong-willed; she is passionate about experiencing cultures and learning from others. I learned so much more about Patricia from these words, and I’m glad we met. One day, I hope to enter her world, because truly - she is an adventuress.
1. Name.
Patricia Heiden.
2. Where is your hometown?
I was born in Hamburg, Germany; raised in several parts of Africa and am now living back in Hamburg.
3. What is your profession/career/title/self-label/designation?
Professionally, I’m a Key Account Manager (Maritime and Offshore) at the Viking Life Saving Equipment. My self-label is “sun child and a nomad at heart, a concert addict, art, food, coffee lover and a gorilla fanatic.
What does your average day look like?
I would love to write something like: “I start my day with meditation, followed by a morning run and a cold plunge.” But truthfully, that’s not who I am. I love to sleep in, celebrate mornings and stay as relaxed as possible. My day starts with a glass of water and just me, starring out of the window; no phone, no tv/radio, no newspaper. Just me. After some time with myself, after truly waking up, I proceed with the coffee and reading the news. I then make my way to either the physical office or head to my home office where I plan my day and the upcoming week, follow up on outstanding topics and prepare for day’s meetings. Throughout the day I deal with many stakeholders (internal & external) all over the world, so once I dive in, I am fully immersed.
My work consists of conducting market research, development of opportunities, meeting and consulting with key account customers. My job is focused on safety at sea - example, on cargo ships, passenger cruise liners or offshore platforms. I am in charge for the complete offshore segment here, in Germany, and my job is to develop our brand in this area. This is a completely new area for me, as the bulk of my career was spent in the maritime sector, working with cargo and passenger ships.
Each of my customers is different and needs individualized attention. One day you visit a conservative German shipowner, the next day you make your way to an island in the Baltic or North Sea where you meet old-school shipowners. Let’s not forget the offshore chaps, who are somewhat young-spirited, excited about their adventures at sea and have a “save the world” mentality. I welcome variety and love a change of pace that comes with my job.
At the end of my workday, my mind shifts into the “chillaxing mode”. I do not think about work (at least I do my best not to). I calm down by working out, cooking dinner with my husband, hanging out with my dear friends, taking extended bubble baths, accompanied by a random TV show, a book or just being in company with myself.
4. What did you study in school?
Whilst living in several cities in Africa, I studied in international schools. In Germany I studied Foreign Languages, Sociology and Psychology. Looking back, I would have welcomed more lessons about the real world, the true world history and not just First and Second World Wars, the French Revolution or the Slave Trade.
I would have loved learning more about Africa in general, about African-born heroes, important historical figures, brave African leaders and fighters. As children we were taught to respect certain historical figures, like Joan of Arc or Christopher Columbus, but that’s about it. Why couldn’t little black girls and boys have role models they could see themselves in, and feel pride in their own roots. African history is so rich and important. Lack of role models certainly does something to one’s self-esteem.
5. What was the journey like to get where you are (in life and career-wise)?
It has been a long, but steady journey. I’ve always been curious about life, loved daydreaming and wishing myself to travel to places I have never been. Consequently, I’ve read many books to feed my hunger for more fantasy and magic. One book I remember to this today is about a boy who decided he could fly after his parents put him to bed. In his fantasy, he was able to fly to any place in the world; since that book I’ve thought that anything was possible for me. I used to watch Pippi Longstocking and imagined being independent like her. I was a little rebel; when I was five-years-old, I decided to leave kindergarten on my own (after other children told me they had seen my parents leaving without me). I copied the behavior of the people crossing the huge main street at the red light. I wasn’t afraid at all. I was determined to go home and show my parents I could take care of myself - next time, they better not forget me. That was the first time I remember my parents becoming furious with me (of course out of fear and worry). This defiant attitude seems to still accompany me throughout my life. When I think something is right and I truly feel it in my veins and gut, I always go for it, no matter what others may say or object with.
I started working at 20; I never went to University. I wanted to be financially independent, so I chose ‘work now and study later’ approach. For five years I worked as a personal assistant in an international law firm specializing in the Maritime Law; then a client offered me a job at the world’s second largest ship registry. There, I worked for two years until a sister company asked me whether I would be willing to work in a new project involving training marine professionals in a maritime academy in Ethiopia. The Academy trained Electro Technical Officers and Engine Watch Officers for a life at sea. Since I grew up in Ethiopia I was able to connect with the candidates easily, building up trust fairly quickly. My role in all of this was to introduce this project to the German and Greek maritime market.
I was motivated by the thought of being able to help the future Ethiopian seafarers to not only set foot in the Germany but also become players in the international maritime industry. This job meant a lot to me as it had a clear and noble purpose: helping young, eager, and intelligent people start their professional lives on an international scale and accompany them through their careers on board. I visited clients on the ships, where possible, spoke to the captains and chief engineers. I witnessed these young people develop and grow in their careers. To this day, almost a decade later, I still receive pictures of these guys’ families, images of their houses and cars they were able to purchase, thanks to the opportunity we provided. Oftentime, a seafarer would support his whole family (parents, siblings, cousins uncles, etc.) and would be responsible for future generation’s education and all their basic needs.
As my adventure in the maritime industry continued, I began overseeing a key client for one of the biggest container shipping companies in the world. I was motivated and happy in this period of my life, free and single, with a fulfilling career, happy family and good friends. But life took me on another turn, this time it was even more exciting. I decided to go on vacation solo, to visit another continent and reunite with my childhood friend Alessandra. In the 17 years we haven’t seen each other, my friend built a family and was now living in Chile. Originally from Brazil, Alessandra and I first met in Dakar, Senegal, when we were just 13 years old. It was an emotional reunion; seeing her child was especially touching. My heart melted for many reasons in Chile; during those three weeks I also met the love of my life, Daniel. My future husband happened to be the brother of Alessandra’s husband. We fell in love so hard, that I decided to move to Chile for a couple of years, to be close to my best friend/sister and Daniel.
Prior moving to Chile, Daniel and I wanted to do a little trip through Europe so he came to Hamburg and we started our Euro trip. While in Istanbul, COVID broke out and the regulations became more stringent worldwide. All of a sudden, borders closed and flights were cancelled; as such, Hamburg became our new home for the next six months and transitioned from a long-distance relationship to a lockdown “staying in the house” situation. I resigned from my job in Chile and started to work for a software company, for the first time straying outside the familiar maritime industry I knew so well. This opportunity didn’t work out and then I got a job offer from Viking Life Saving Equipment. My job interview with my future boss was held via a zoom call. I have since been a Key Account Manager for the Vikings; it’s a job with a purpose.
In the meantime, Daniel and I were married, and my best friend is now my sister-in-law; I am the godmother to her son.
And this is life.
Write about some of the achievements that you are most proud of.
My personal achievement has always been learning how to be good on my own; how to be happy with myself, secure in the presence of my own company. After getting out of an unhealthy 11-year relationship, I needed to separate myself from the things that were no longer serving me. I am proud of myself, for being able to develop, evolve, rediscover who I was, to explore the world and be brave.
I used to be scared to go out by myself and felt that I needed the protection of my partner, to pick me up from places and accompany me everywhere. I was 19 when we started seeing each other; eleven years later, when we split up I felt that I lost touch with my true self. I did not know who I was underneath and I remember feeling my insides tingling. I had to break out and get to know myself, in baby steps. First, I spent time alone, in my apartment, working and returning home. I was afraid to stay out late for the fear of returning home to an empty apartment alone. I then decided that I could not go on like that, I needed to live and be my own security. I then took matters into my own hands and googled self-defense classes. That’s how I started practicing Krav Maga. Through empowering myself, I felt my life return.
Another proud achievement was being honoured as a top English student at an International School of the Atlantic in Dakar, Senegal. I also got an opportunity to teach English at a native school, to a class of 40 students, together with my best friend and sister-in-law, Alessandra.
What was the moment for you that changed your life (in your personal life and/or career?) that set you on the current path in life?
There were many personal life moments that changed me at the core:
Ending of a long-term relationship, in which I felt really stuck.
Reuniting with my best friend in Chile, after a 17-year-separation.
Meeting my future husband in Chile, after reuniting with my best friend.
Changing countries and constantly having to leave the places I got so used to (my parents’ jobs took us everywhere). At the time it was hard and heartbreaking, but in the long run, it made me who I am today - a woman with rich and broad experiences. Plus, I would have never met my best friend nor my husband.
My professional life took a positive turn with the change of management at my first job. At the time I was going through a hard period in my life, feeling stuck in a relationship and unfulfilled. Furthermore, I cherished my old boss, who left. New manager was from Cape Town, South Africa, and with her, she brought light into my professional existence. I learned so much from her and grew more than I ever could have imagined. She was a strong WOW Woman in my life; she taught me so much about hard work, how to grow into a respected woman and how to not take shit from anyone. I remember I wanted to be just like her. Shout out to you, Pam. Thank you.
6. How is your life different from what you pictured at 20?
Love this question. When I was 20 years old I really thought I would be married at 26 and have kids by 27. But no, life showed me that there was a lot more to grasp, reach for and experience first.
7. Was there a time when life knocked you down or out and how did you get back up on your feet?
I hit my emotional rock bottom when my grandmother passed away from cancer when I was 19 years old. We were very close and I don’t recall ever crying that hard before or since. We all stood by her until the end. It was the hardest day of my life, having to let her go and to see my dad upset like that. I realized then, for the first time, that life was not definite and my parents will eventually not be around. Loss is something I don’t think I will be able to handle easily. All I know is that I got back on my feet, I had to function in my job and try to keep on with my school.
Several good friends helped me get back on my feet; they gave me a lot of strength. Some of these friends, whom I call family, will be there for me in the future as well. I also feel supported by my husband, who loves me so very much as well as my extended family in Chile, Brazil and Rwanda.
8. Advice for other women?
Be yourself. Dance, sing, laugh, cry. Don’t use your energy for worrying all the time; use it to believe, create, trust, give, grow, glow and heal. Speak up and act according to your personal values. Remember your roots and cherish your ancestors, thanking the women in your lineage. Be authentic. It’s OK to have a bad day. It’s OK to suck at something or look like sh*t. You will get out of the rut eventually; ask for help if you are stuck.
Help others. Make people laugh or at least smile - you will see the effect that will have on you.
9. Knowing what we know now in a current political climate, can women be "all that we can be" in today's world? What is the way forward, as you see it, for "feminist values"?
Yes we can. Best example: the women of Iran started a revolution. Afghanistan is picking up on it. If they can do it, we can all do it. I believe in us women! We are more powerful than we think. We are the ones who actually run this world, even though we have to work harder and prove ourselves stronger than our male co-humans. Most importantly, we need to work together and not against each other. We need to empower each other more.
I recommend everyone reads “Misogyny, the World’s Oldest Prejudice” by the Irish journalist Jack Holland. I think it should be taught in schools. Holland puts forth a well-researched and compelling narrative on the many manifestations of misogyny, from ancient to modern times - in the religious, social, scientific and political spheres. He examines the question: How do you explain the oppression and brutalization of half of the world's population by the other half? I recommend every woman reads this book in order to understand the mechanisms used against us throughout history.
10. Where in the world do you feel “tallest” (i.e. where is your happy place)?
Anywhere in Africa, but specifically in Ethiopia, Senegal or in Rwanda. The soil of Mother Africa earths me, I feel so very connected to my roots and the universe when I’m there.
11. What extracurricular activities/hobbies are you most proud of? Why?
I am able to do things with my body I never thought possible - be it Krav Maga or Animal Flow. I love experiencing live music and going to different concerts; music is an elixir for me. To date, I think I’ve been to almost 50 concerts.
12. What do you want to be when you grow up? Future goals/challenges?
I want to be at peace with myself and the world around me. I want to become a leader in an industry, become a consultant in something. I am really good at supporting/helping people whenever I can. I want to be able to do a handstand. Finally, I want to learn another language and deepen my Spanish.
13. What fears are you still hoping to overcome?
The fear of losing my parents. The fear of being left alone.
The fear of flying (I have been flying since I was two months old but I still harbour it).
The fear of regretting.
The fear of losing my partner, when we are old or sooner.
14. Anything you'd do differently, if you had another go at life?
I would probably re-live meaningful life’s moments more intensively; I would be more present. For example, all the special moments with my grandmother, in Rwanda. What wouldn’t I give to repeat the evenings we had around the fire, as she told me her life’s stories (which I’m sure I didn’t fully understand or appreciate back then).
15. What/who inspires you?
Things that make my heart smile, cry, laugh, rage. Things that teach me. I feel that the more you love and feel and go with the flow, the more you are intertwined with the universe and receive the same positive energy back. In turn, the more you are in connection with the universe, more things fall into place as you are able to connect the dots.
Art inspires me - paintings, music, dance or good food (which is art for me as well).
16. What are you hopeful about?
Hopeful that we will be able to cure cancer and other grave diseases. I am hopeful that science and medicine will evolve and make giant leaps to help humanity. I am hopeful that women/men/queer people can feel free to live according to their desires, to decide for themselves who they want to be. I hope the world will become kinder.
17. What are some ingredients to a good life?
Good Coffee, good wine, curiosity, great friends, family and companions, movement of the body, change of any kind and lots of laughter. Last but not least, good health - which emerges out of the aforementioned.
Has the global pandemic changed your perspective about the world, about your life, your goals and dreams?
The global pandemic made me cherish my time on this earth more. I am a concert addict. I was not able to partake in this past time. I binged on videos and looked at pictures, wondering “if I only would have the chance to revisit these moments and live them more intensely!” Now my motto is: live and experience life to the fullest. The global pandemic also showed an ugly side of humanity - people who were lost in the swamps of disbelief and conspiracy theories, those willing to put others in danger. The pandemic also showed me that we have good people on this planet - good compassionate people, who would do their utmost to support one another.
18. What are (at least) three qualities you most love about yourself and why? What are your superpowers?
My empathy, I can turn awkward moments into funny and enjoyable ones (especially in a formal and stuffy environment). My sense of humour - I love making people laugh (I am super goofy person). I can sell water to a fish. Finally, I am able to imitate people and accents very well (my acting skills are on point).
19. What advice would you give your 14-year-old self? What advice would your 14-year-old self give you in return?
I would tell her: “Relax, everything will be ok. You will be a kick ass woman who will have the best friends the world can bring. You will have a splendid time and experience many lives in one! Lean back and enjoy the ride. You will be able to straighten you hair whenever you want, eat all the chocolate that you want, travel the world; while at the same time feel settled while marrying the hottest, most compassionate man on this planet. You will understand why it did not work out with all the others, before him. Oh and stick to Alessandra – be good to her. You guys will be friends for a life time.”
She would tell me: “Patricia, do not become like Papa, focused only on work and being all serious. Remember we wanted to be the opposite. Go horse riding and meet new friends. Be silly. Don’t forget the silliness. Watch Disney Movies. Never stop.”
20. What are you reading now? (What books do you gift most and what are your favorite reads?
I am currently reading “Notes of a Native Son” by James Baldwin and “Race Relations – Essays on Racism” by Dr. Michaela Dudley.
My favorite books:
“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou.
“Desert Flower” by Waris Dirie.
“The Shaman” by Noah Gordon.
“Misogyny: The World's Oldest Prejudice” by Jack Holland.
I gift “The Alchemist”, by Paulo Coelho, to the people I cherish and love.
21. Who is a WOW WOMAN in your world who inspires you and why? Can you nominate three (or more) women you know who perfectly fit WOW WOMAN description? What would you tell them, if you had an opportunity, about why you admire them?
My grandmothers. My father’s mom fled invading Red Army in World War II, along with my dad, he was just a baby in her arms. She was alone, with a child and walked for miles and miles until they were safe.
My Moms Mom, who was a single parent after the premature death of my grandpa. She raised 5 incredibly strong women in a time that was not merciful for young African woman in Africa. I admire both their strength and resilience.
Angela Davis (Civil Right Activist), Maya Angelou (Author & Poet), Madam C.J. Walker (First Black Female Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Social Activist) and Dian Fossey, (Primatologist and Conservationist). She is THE WOW woman whose legacy I am so incredibly grateful for. She raised the awareness for the protection of the Mountain Gorillas in Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. If it were not for her, Gorillas would be instinct today. Annie Oakley (American Sharpshooter) She is an iconic figure especially for women interested in shooting sports. Her skills made her famous. She was an advocate for women to lean a sport that was primarily dominated by men.
22. Where can others find you/your work (linksto websites, blogs, etc.?
Instagram: patshizzo
Facebook: patricia duchaisse
Bonus Quick Round Qs:
1. What and who is worth suffering for? For your beliefs and inner desires, for what your gut thinks is right.
2. What would you do if you knew that nobody would judge you? I would sing loudly and be naked more often.
3. Who is/are your mentor/s? That is a tough question because I cannot think of just the one mentor. My dad, I would call him a mentor as he had been influential in my life, as did my mom. From my dad, I believe I inherited rationality, the way to observe, consider and then react. My dad taught me that the only way to gain respect of people around you is through hard work, dedication and rationality. My mom gave me the emotional intelligence, empathic features I believe I have; she taught me to see the good in everything and anyone. No one was born mean or bad. The ability to accept if someone does wrong to you and to forgive, still be able to help, if need be. I admire that the most. I would say I am not a 100 percent my mom yet, because I need more time to get there. She truly has the heart of gold.
My husband is my now mentor when it comes to critical thinking, accepting/considering that everything is not black or white; through his eyes I see this world as more beautiful and magical.
4. If you did not have to work anymore, what would you do with your days? I would travel more often and dedicate my time to painting, drinking good wine and enjoying more live music. I would certainly support more sustainable projects and dedicate more time to people in need. I would like to build something substantial.
5. If you could be anyone for a day who would you be? I guess I would love to be Daniel, my husband, for a day. He can do a handstand and a lot of cool other things which I admire him for. I would love to see the world through his eyes. And the other person would be Beyoncé.
6. If you could relive one year in your life, which one would it be?
2000 – in Senegal.
1999 – in Ethiopia.
2019 – the year I re-united with my best friend in Chile and then met the love of my life; that year felt like a rollercoaster ride.
1996 – to relive the moments with my lovely Grandma in Rwanda.
7. What bothers you most about other people? What do you love most about other people? Ignorance, disrespecting others, and the racism, myogenic. Also, manipulative people bother me. I love bravery and curiosity in people. People who are empaths, who exhibit emotional intelligence and are kind to animals have a special place in my heart.