"Hi! My name is Henrique (29 YO) and I have been living in Australia for 5 years. I was born in Curitiba - Brazil and have already lived in Joinville and Sorocaba. I have a Business Administration Bachelor’s degree at ESAMC and my background is within Logistics. In 2011, I have started my career as Logistics Intern and progressed through my career as Logistics Analyst in 2015, at Schaeffler Brazil LTDA, a global automotive and industrial supplier.

In 2015, I have decided to leave everything behind in order to go to Australia to improve my English skills, when I was feeling personally and professionally stucked. I resigned and invested in an English course in Brisbane - Australia. My English skills were limited that time so I applied for a General English course for 6 months. Once in love with the country and it’s culture, I decided to extend my student visa for 2 years. I have studied International Business and International Trade as well as worked as Kitchen Hand and Waiter. In the meantime, I also applied for a paid 6 months Internship Program at Australian Internships to have an international experience working for a company overseas. That was when everything changed in my life. I was able to secure a position as a Logistics Intern at Volvo Trucks Australia. Fortunately, upon working for 4 months in a business environment, I secured a position within Volvo Trucks Australia. I have been working there since 2017. Last year, I got my sponsor visa!

To begin with my advice, please don’t be shy about speaking English. Australians are usually very easy-going and will understand the fact you are a non-native English speaker. The main reason why you are here is to improve your English skills. Australia is the country of opportunities, so don’t be shy! Last but not least important, once you finish all your tasks for the day, tell your team you are available to help them with any tasks, processes or projects. That’s how you are going to build more confidence and will start to learn more about the company and hopefully will secure your official position!"

Henrique Bittencourt, Brazilian, Logistics Professional