An Indian woman who once held a senior corporate role in London has shared how moving to Australia led to a deep identity crisis after she had to take up cleaning jobs in Melbourne.
Shweta Desai, 37, who earlier worked as Head of Product at a commercial website in London, spoke about her experience in an Instagram video that has since gone viral. She said her journey helped her understand that no job defines a person and that identity goes beyond professional titles.
From a high-paying job to starting over
Desai moved from London to Melbourne in 2023 with her husband and two children. She said the job market there was very different, and she was unable to find work in her field. As a result, she accepted a job managing Airbnb apartments, which involved cleaning, laundry, and handling guest communication.
She described the shift as moving from a high-level corporate position to performing basic service work, something that left her struggling emotionally at first.
Loss of identity and adjustment
Before relocating, she had spent around 15 years in London after moving there from Mumbai for studies. She earned close to £100,000 annually in her previous role and had a comfortable lifestyle. The move, however, meant giving up financial stability, luxury goods, and her established career identity.
She said the transition made her feel disconnected from herself, describing it as if she had “lost her identity” and was left feeling empty for a period of time.
Rediscovering purpose
Although the experience was difficult, she later said the new job helped her reconnect with herself in unexpected ways. She explained that work, regardless of its nature, does not define human value, and that she eventually began to rebuild her sense of self.
Alongside managing Airbnb properties, she now teaches English and is developing her own coaching and business work.
Reflections on money and independence
Desai said the experience changed her view of financial independence. For her, money represents freedom and choices, even if people often underestimate its importance. She added that she had once placed too much emotional weight on job titles and status.
She also launched an online community called “The Rebuild Room,” aimed at supporting women going through career changes, relocation, or identity shifts.
