From Prayagraj to Singapore: How Shruti built a new life abroad

From Prayagraj to Singapore, Shruti Dubey Mishra’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and balance. Four years ago, she moved with her family to a new country, trading familiar routines in India for the challenges of a fast-paced global city.

Between visa hurdles, adjusting to a new culture, and raising two young children without the family support system she once had, she had every reason to slow down — but instead, she built back stronger. Today, speaking with Indian Women Abroad, Shruti shares she runs her own online education academy, creates content that reaches students worldwide, and coaches others on life skills, proving that moving abroad can be both a test and a triumph.

Where are you from in India, and where did you move?

I was born and raised in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Four years ago, my family and I moved to Singapore. Moving to a new country was a big step, and at first, it came with many adjustments—new culture, routines, and work environment. Over time, I settled in professionally and personally, building a balance between work, family, and social life.

Why did you move, and what are you doing now?

We moved to Singapore because my husband came here on deputation as an expat. Professionally, I had already started one of the early online education academies in India, and after working for a year here, I returned to it full-time. Alongside running my academy, I work as a life skills coach, creating content on YouTube and Instagram, reaching students worldwide, and sharing my experiences with others.

What was your experience of moving and adjusting to a new culture like?

Moving here was challenging at first because the work culture, social norms, and daily routines were very different from India. However, I’ve always been adaptable — my husband’s job involved frequent transfers within India after our marriage, so I was used to adjusting to new environments. This was the first time we moved outside the country, which added a new layer of challenge. My experience working with international students helped me understand diverse perspectives and adapt more quickly, but it still took effort and patience to manage professional responsibilities while settling into family life.

What are the biggest pros of moving? What lessons have you learned?

Living in Singapore has given me professional growth and exposure to diverse perspectives. I was already financially independent in India, but being here has reinforced that independence in a new environment and with new responsibilities. I’ve learned patience, adaptability, and resilience. Managing my online academy, creating content, and coaching students internationally has taught me to handle multiple roles efficiently. Every challenge has been a lesson in persistence, problem-solving, and balancing work and family.

What are the biggest challenges you have faced?

Visa restrictions were one of the biggest challenges, including the difficulty of landing a job on a dependent visa. Balancing professional work and family responsibilities has also been tough, especially as a second-time mother. Raising two young children without the kind of family support available in India adds another layer of complexity. Moving slowed my professional momentum temporarily, but with persistence and support from my husband, I’ve regained my rhythm and continue to manage my academy and creative work.

Was it easy to adjust to a new environment? How did you find/build a social circle?

Adjusting was not easy. Initially, everything from work expectations to daily life was different. I relied on professional networks, online communities, and connections through my academy to slowly build a social circle. Networking with other parents and colleagues also helped me feel connected. Over time, I found people I could relate to both personally and professionally, which made life here more comfortable.

In the context of the experience of Indian women back home, what do you prefer? Living abroad or living in India?

Both have their advantages. Living abroad offers equality at work, professional opportunities, exposure to diverse perspectives, and expands your mindset, making you stronger. While financial independence can also be achieved in India, being here has added a new layer of confidence and growth in a different environment. In India, there is more family and social support, which makes raising children and managing home responsibilities easier. Personally, I value the independence and opportunities I have in Singapore, though I do miss the strong support system I would have had back home.

Are there any new freedoms or experiences you’ve had that you probably didn’t have access to back home?

Absolutely. Living abroad has given me more independence in managing my time, work, and personal decisions. I can take on projects and teaching opportunities aligned with my skills, without traditional constraints. Socially and professionally, I’ve learned to express myself more openly. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram allow me to share my voice and make an impact beyond my immediate environment. This level of independence and freedom was harder to achieve back home.

Any advice for other Indian women abroad?

Be patient and adaptable. Challenges like visa restrictions, job searches, and balancing family life are part of the journey, but they are also opportunities to grow. Build networks, trust your skills, and take on roles or projects that push you beyond your comfort zone. Financial and professional independence is empowering, and even if progress is slower at times, it is important to stay consistent and focused. Support from your family and partner can make a big difference.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Every experience, even difficult ones, shapes who you become. Moving abroad comes with challenges — visa restrictions, finding independent work, and balancing motherhood without the extended family support — but it also offers tremendous growth and learning. With two kids and my husband’s support, I’ve managed to get back on track professionally while continuing to raise my children and create meaningful content. Life abroad has strengthened my resilience, self-confidence, and ability to balance multiple roles. Looking back, I realise that every challenge prepared me for the next stage of growth.