“I’m already making a contribution that can progress my career.”


A few short months after arriving in Australia, Venezuelan-born Ahiram Padrinos says he already feels he may have found his ‘forever home’ in Melbourne.

GTAL_2022_ahirarm_500x500px.png“I really love the city. I love the people here. I love the people at Grant Thornton. And I love the coffee – it feels like coffee back home in Venezuela.”

After a period working in the United States, Ahiram was seeking a change and started at looking at other countries, including Australia. After interviewing with firms in several countries, Ahiram chose Grant Thornton – and Australia – because he felt the connection with the Partners in Melbourne was “fantastic from the very start”.

“The Partners felt like they were specifically interested in me and what I could offer, compared to other firms that felt more like I was just another worker.”

Ahiram said the nicest surprise was the welcome he received from colleagues at all levels.

“There was someone at every level to walk me through things, different systems and things like that – everyone is super supportive and every time I have a question there’s someone willing to take the time to answer it.

“It’s really refreshing because everyone is trying to support and help each other.

“I've already been able to demonstrate my skills and suggest solutions, one of which is now being successfully trialled. So it really feels like I’m already making a contribution that is going to be reflected in the progress of my career.

“It’s really refreshing because everyone is trying to support and help each other."

Ahiram says that a move to another country is not without its challenges but says that at Grant Thornton he feels that “people actually care about me as a person and about my career goals”.

“It’s interesting because here people are reminded that they have a life and they should go home, enjoy time with their families or friends and do whatever excites them.”

For Ahiram that has meant making new friends, visiting “every festival that they’ve organised in the city”, and regular weekend visits to his local beach at St Kilda – something that surprised the normally non-beachgoer.

“It’s interesting because here people are reminded that they have a life and they should go home, enjoy time with their families or friends and do whatever excites them.”

Having moved countries several times, Ahiram had some tips for those who may be considering a stint working in Australia.

“When it comes to visas, just be patient. Information and processes can change quickly and what’s available on websites might not be up to date. The team at Grant Thornton were very knowledgeable and supportive – especially as my case was a little more complicated.

“They also provided the first couple of weeks accommodation so I could settle in and decide which area I wanted to live.

“Every time you move it comes with a different set of challenges, but if I’d had to do all of it myself, I don't know if I would be living here.”

Also important is considering what you enjoy doing out of work and the kind of lifestyle you want – and choose a location that can deliver that. Moving with a family might mean you want different things than someone moving solo. Ahiram recommends researching beforehand and asking a few questions during your interview – so you can be more confident in your choice of location.

And the final word from Ahiram?

“It is always challenging – finding friends, finding a place to live, finding things you like to do, and making a mark in a new job – but it is also very exciting.”

“When it comes to visas, just be patient. Information and processes can change quickly and what’s available on websites might not be up to date. The team at Grant Thornton were very knowledgeable and supportive – especially as my case was a little more complicated."

Find out more about working at Grant Thornton Australia