Ansley Easterlin’s journey to Adelaide is one of curiosity, courage and choosing a different pace of life.
Featured on Season 5 of the Adelaide Connected Podcast, Ansley shares her story of living and working all over the world including in New York, Georgia, the Cayman Islands, New Zealand, Panama, and Alaska before moving to Adelaide in late 2023. With an international perspective and a strong appreciation for community and connection, Ansley reflects on what it means to move across the world and start again in a completely unfamiliar place.
Like many people who relocate internationally, the transition came with some initial hesitation and uncertainty. But after doing some research and looking into the local job prospects, Ansley quickly discovered something unexpected about Adelaide, a city that felt safe, welcoming, accessible and deeply connected.
In the podcast, she speaks about the lifestyle advantages Adelaide offers compared to larger global cities. From the ease of getting around and spending more quality time with friends and her precious dogs, to feeling genuinely supported by the local community, Ansley found Adelaide offered a healthier balance between professional ambition and personal wellbeing.
“I originally came here with a partner, the partner didn’t stick but the city did…I absolutely fell in love with Adelaide so decided to stay,” she recalls.
“The city itself is fantastic…I arrived in July and I spent the first couple of months exploring the city and visiting wineries. The things I noticed most was how safe Adelaide feels, the ease of accessibility of getting around and just how beautiful the city is. It seems like there is a conscious decision to invest in green spaces here, particularly the Park Lands around the city, which provides this big open green space, free for all to use.”
“The dog park has also been a great place to meet people. I have made some great friends of all ages and backgrounds at the local park. We go out for dinner; we have rented out a houseboat – it’s a fantastic way to meet people.”
Having recently moved into the role of Development & Partnerships Manager at the Adelaide Film Festival, Ansley also reflects on the openness of Adelaide’s professional networks and the willingness of people to collaborate, connect and help newcomers establish themselves. That sense of support and authenticity became a defining part of her migration experience and reinforced why Adelaide continues to attract globally experienced talent looking for more than just career opportunity.
“I’m meeting more and more people who are leading various arts organisations and festivals in Adelaide, and there are so many absolutely brilliant people here in Adelaide who are passionate, who have fantastic ideas and are absolute expert operators in their field,” Ansley shares.
“I am actually really, really excited to be a part of that because I do think there’s a way for us to all pull together and lift that art scene.”
Ansley’s story highlights an important part of the Adelaide Connected mission, showcasing the real experiences behind migration and reminding us that attracting talent is not just about filling skill gaps and jobs but about creating a city that is vibrant and where people feel welcome, connected and able to thrive.
Learn more about Ansley’s story so far and listen to her full episode here on Spotify or on Apple Podcasts.
For further information and to join the Adelaide Connected program visit adelaideconnected.com.au