Geja Holmes

Geja looks like a simple word to say, but when I tell you that I am Dutch, a few alarm bells may be ringing. The pronunciation of a Dutch 'G' is slightly different to the English style - so here I settle for the Sunderland version of my name, Hey-ya.  

How come I'm living in the North East of England? Well, I married a British northerner, who has settled here. And, I have to say, I feel so lucky to be living in such a beautiful part of the world. I have always been a traveller, but it is fantastic to plant my roots here in England.  

My work as a teacher and school leader have taken me from The Netherlands to Norway - the land of the Midnight Sun, then into West Africa, to Gabon (where French is the official language).  

After a few years there, I went to Nigeria for two years, as head of an International school. Followed by a year in The Land of the Red Dragon, China. Next, I lived and worked eight years in Oman; a beautiful and fascinating Middle Eastern country.  

I then moved onto Malaysia, working in an International school on the Island of Borneo and the jungles of the orangutan. Then, seven years later, I returned to The Netherlands as a teacher at The International School of The Hague.  

There, I met up with an ex-colleague, who happened to be living in the North East of England. You can guess the rest. 

Working around the world has enhanced my love for languages. Speaking five languages fluently has certainly aided my travels and added to the experiences. In the Netherlands most people speak two or more languages, so I am not that unusual. When your own language is shrinking, it is wise to learn others. 

A couple of years ago, I enrolled in a Norwegian Language course. It was fun to realise that, although it was over 35 years since I had worked there, I was still able to pass my A Levels in Norwegian. I may be the oldest non-Norwegian to ever do so! 

My other passions are singing and cycling. On the quiet country roads of Northumberland, I sometimes combine them both - until I spot a pedestrian. I own a road bike, which I take out very early on weekends, while the drivers are still asleep (in bed, not at the wheel), a mountain bike for my daily rides and a shopping bike. The latter doesn't have a basket on the front, but there are plenty of bags at the back. 

Recently, I joined the Rockchoir and this has become a significant aspect of my life. I practise most days - and always sound pitch perfect with my headphones on, although my husband may not agree that I do. The choir meet once a week and we have the opportunity to 'perform' for the public on many occasions, throughout the year. I would recommend singing to everyone. 

I am looking forward to developing a role as a reporter for 'We'ar Shining The Light'.