7 Sept 2023
Born and raised in Brazil, Marcos Cadah is quite an eager beaver. He doesn’t see his experience working abroad as a milestone to check off his bucket list but more of an eagerness to keep exploring, learning, and contributing in a meaningful way to both the IT field and the promotion of intercultural understanding. In this Voice of Averis, Marcos has been so generous with his sharing and it’s really worth the read. Sit back, relax, and get to know Marcos, a very dedicated Averian from the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Center of Excellence.
- Hi there! Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi, I’m Marcos. I have a strong background in Information Technology, which I acquired in 2012, complementing my extensive professional journey in IT that began in 2000. My journey commenced in the city of Santos, located on the coast of São Paulo, Brazil. However, the pursuit of challenges beyond borders led me to a transformative experience – working in Malaysia.
The world, to me, is like a treasure trove of discoveries waiting to be unveiled. My passion for travelling and immersing myself in new cultures is a driving force in my life. With each destination I step into and each culture I embrace, I enrich my understanding of the world and build bridges that connect people from different backgrounds.
As such, my trajectory is not merely a series of professional milestones, but an ongoing journey of personal growth propelled by technology and enriched by the cultural diversity I encounter around the globe. I’m eager to keep exploring, learning, and contributing in a meaningful way to both the IT field and the promotion of intercultural understanding.
- How long have you been in Averis and how has your journey been so far?
It’s been a remarkable 10 years and 6 months since I became part of the Averis team, and my journey has been nothing short of enriching. The diverse array of projects I’ve contributed to and the collaboration with exceptional colleagues across departments have been truly rewarding.
Throughout this time, I’ve had the distinct privilege of witnessing the company’s growth and evolution, a journey that has both inspired and educated me. Challenges have been an integral part of my experience, each one providing an opportunity for me to acquire new skills and knowledge. Notably, I take great pride in successfully embarking on the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) journey at Averis since 2018, a challenge that stands out as a testament to my dedication and adaptability.
My tenure at Averis has not only fostered my professional growth but has also allowed me to cultivate deep and meaningful connections with my colleagues. As I reflect on this journey, I find it incredibly fulfilling and am excited for the chapters yet to unfold.
- What would be your most memorable moment in Averis?
It’s difficult to pinpoint just one single memorable moment from my time at Averis, as there have been numerous significant experiences (Team Building, Out of Office Day, Annual Dinner, etc). However, if I were to choose one that truly stands out, it would be the time I had the privilege of participating in a volunteer activity at an orphanage.
Engaging in this volunteer initiative was a profoundly moving experience for me as I would participate back in my hometown too. It was a day filled with heartfelt interactions, shared laughter, and a sense of making a positive impact on the lives of those children. Witnessing their joy and resilience despite their circumstances left an indelible mark on my heart.
This experience wasn’t just a memorable event. It also exemplified Averis’ commitment to giving back to the community and fostering a sense of responsibility beyond our professional roles. It reinforced my belief that a company’s values extend far beyond its business operations.
Participating in the orphanage volunteer programme not only deepened my connection with Averis but also enriched my perspective on the importance of empathy, compassion, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It’s a memory that I hold dear and that continues to inspire me in both my personal and professional endeavours.
- How do you like working with your team?
The experience of working with my team has been more than just nice. It’s been rewarding, inspiring, and instrumental in my own development. I look forward to the continued collaboration and the opportunities it brings for us to achieve even greater milestones together.
- When you first joined, how did you find a sense of belonging at Averis? How did you cope with adapting?
When I first joined Averis in 2013, establishing a sense of belonging was important to me, and the company’s welcoming and inclusive environment played a significant role in this process. The onboarding process was thorough and well-structured, providing me with a clear understanding of the company’s values, goals, and culture. Additionally, my colleagues and team members went out of their way to make me feel welcome, taking the time to introduce themselves, share insights, and offer assistance. This sense of camaraderie and approachability helped me transition smoothly and start building meaningful relationships from the very beginning.
Adapting to a new environment can be a challenge, but I approached it with an open mindset and a willingness to learn. To cope with the adaptation process, I focused on actively engaging with my colleagues and seeking opportunities to contribute to projects. Regular team meetings and collaborative sessions allowed me to become familiar with team dynamics and processes. Additionally, I proactively sought feedback to gauge my progress and make necessary adjustments. Continuous communication and a proactive attitude enabled me to integrate smoothly into the team and contributed to building my confidence in my new role. Over time, the challenges of adapting transformed into valuable learning experiences that shaped my growth both personally and professionally.
- 7th September is Brazil Independence Day. How do you usually celebrate it back home in Brazil?
Back home in Brazil, September 7th is a day of immense celebration as it marks the country’s Independence Day. The celebrations are a vibrant display of patriotism and unity. In my family, this day has always been a special occasion where we come together to honour Brazil’s history and culture.
One of the most common ways to celebrate is by attending parades and festivities that take place across cities. It’s a joyous sight to witness people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate their shared identity as Brazilians.
Another cherished tradition is indulging in traditional Brazilian cuisine. Families and friends gather for special meals that often include feijoada, a hearty black bean stew with various meats, and other regional delicacies. Sharing these meals with loved ones foster a sense of togetherness and cultural pride.
In addition to the parades and culinary delights, many communities also organise cultural events, concerts, and fireworks displays to commemorate the day. These activities not only honour Brazil’s history but also showcase the country’s vibrant artistic and cultural diversity.
Personally, celebrating Brazil’s Independence Day fills me with a deep sense of connection to my roots and reminds me of the rich history and spirit of resilience that defines our nation. Even when I’m abroad, I make an effort to engage in these celebrations by attending local Brazilian events.
- How long have you lived in Malaysia? If your friends or family from back home visited you here, where would you bring them and what would you recommend them to do during their stay here?
For 10 years, Malaysia has graciously been my home, an enriching chapter in my life. I’m delighted in showing my friends and family the wonders of this remarkable country.
Our adventures led us to Kuala Lumpur, where the iconic Petronas Twin Towers commanded attention. From their observation deck, the city’s pulse was laid out in panoramic view. We explored historic Merdeka Square, resonating with Malaysia’s independence spirit. Further out, Batu Caves near KL revealed intricate limestone beauty.
Culinary discoveries were equally captivating. I guided them through lively food markets, where diverse dishes awaited – nasi lemak, satay, char kway teow, even the unique Durian.
Beyond the city, journeys to Langkawi, Penang, Kapas, Melaka, and Cameron Highlands unfolded relaxation and culture, often alongside engaging street art.
In essence, Malaysia offers a tapestry of culture and landscapes. A decade here immersed me in its splendid diversity and natural allure.
- We celebrated Independence Day on 31st August and we’ll be celebrating Malaysia Day on 16th September. What are some of the things that you’re proud of as an expat living in Malaysia and why?
As an expat living in Malaysia, I feel a deep sense of pride and privilege, particularly during these significant celebrations of Independence Day on 31st August and Malaysia Day on 16th September.
One of the aspects that fills me with pride is the remarkable cultural diversity that defines Malaysia. The country’s ability to harmoniously blend various ethnicities, religions, and languages is truly admirable. This cultural tapestry not only enriches my own life but also underscores the beauty of unity in diversity.
Furthermore, the warmth and friendliness of the Malaysian people have made me feel welcomed and valued. The spirit of ‘muhibbah‘ (unity and harmony) is tangible in everyday interactions, and it’s this genuine hospitality that has truly endeared Malaysia to me.
Celebrating Independence Day and Malaysia Day allows me to reflect on these aspects and acknowledge the role I play as an expat in contributing to this incredible nation. The values of unity, diversity, and progress that Malaysia embodies align closely with my own beliefs, making me incredibly proud to be a part of this dynamic and evolving country.
Averis is always ready to welcome talented individuals like you! If you’re seeking internship opportunities or someone who’s keen to build a strong career in your field of expertise, send over your updated resume to recruitment@averis.com.