Transplants - Conversations With Women Thriving Abroad #4 A Leap from PhD to Creative Life in South Korea | Aisha Ba | Italy → South Korea
Sep 23, 2025
Aisha Ba, a model, dancer, and content creator from Italy, shares her unique journey as an immigrant mother in South Korea. She reflects on her mixed Italian and Senegalese roots, revealing how they shaped her identity. Aisha discusses her bold transition from a PhD in economics to pursuing a creative life in dance. She explores cultural contrasts, her relationship with her husband, and the complexities of raising bilingual children. Her insights provide a fresh perspective on the challenges and joys of building a life abroad.
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Growing Up Visible In South Tyrol
- Aisha grew up in South Tyrol as a visible foreigner and experienced daily scrutiny in a small town.
- That upbringing made her more open to other cultures and curious about the world.
From PhD To A Year Of Dance
- Aisha was pursuing a PhD in economics and working as a researcher and lecturer before switching paths.
- She took a year off to pursue dance professionally and that decision changed her career trajectory.
LA Wasn’t The Right Fit
- Aisha moved to Los Angeles for dance but found the scene and culture mismatched with her style and personality.
- She discovered her dance style was stronger in Korea and Japan and decided to move to Korea.