Rahel Tafesse: From Brazil to Norway in Ethiopia


When Rahel Tafesse went from the Brazilian Embassy to work as the Norwegian Ambassador’s Secretary she expected to find Norwegians reserved and formal but was surprised to discover that her new colleges were friendly and welcoming – and often laugh out loud at work.

When Rahel took up the position as the Ambassador’s Secretary her work profile did not contain surprises as she has years of embassy experience. Even tasks related to the recent visit by the Norwegian Minister of Foreign affairs went smoothly. She has however learnt a few things about Norway, about the Norwegian presence in Ethiopia, and about Norwegians.

“I knew that Norwegians and Brazilians are from two different worlds,” says Rahel, “and in preparation of working at the Norwegian Embassy I researched Norwegians on the Internet and learned that they are supposed to be reserved and formal. However, when I started work at the Embassy I was surprised to meet friendly and welcoming colleagues and I hear a lot of laughing in the corridors!”



Rahel knew from before that Norway was a developed Scandinavian country with lots of fish and oil. She also knew that Norway is not a member of the European Union and found this very strange. “Since I started working at the Norwegian Embassy I have learnt that Norway is doing a lot in Ethiopia. The involvement in the hydropower sector has impressed me” she says.

Although her work days are very busy, especially ahead of delegation visits, Rahel likes to work at the Embassy, including socialising with colleagues over lunch (and to hear people laugh). She hopes that people will continue to be pleased with the job she does and that she will continue to learn new things.

Source: Royal Norwegian Embassy