About Us

Meet the Founder: Your Journey Starts with Experience

Being an Au Pair is enriching, educational, and life-changing—and my own journey is a testament to that.

My Story

From 2004 to 2006, I lived with the incredible Winter Shaham family in Silver Spring, Maryland, caring for Nathan (18 months) and Ilana (4 years). Those years hold a very special place in my heart, filled with memories of warm summers in Delaware and weekends exploring the history of Washington, D.C.

Over those two years, my journey took me across the United States—from New York and Virginia to Texas and California. I even fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Disney World in Orlando! Beyond the travel, living in a new country taught me invaluable life skills: adaptability, patience, cross-cultural understanding, and the power of meaningful communication. It helped me grow personally and professionally, making me more independent, confident, and purposeful.

From Passion to Purpose

Those formative years ignited a deep passion for cultural exchange. It was this inspiration that led me to create Taking Abroad Au Pairs. I wanted to give young people the same opportunity I had to grow, explore, and thrive—but with the added benefit of professional guidance, structure, and a lot of heart.

Leadership & Recruitment

As the owner and founder, I remain deeply involved in every aspect of the journey. I personally serve as the Head of Recruitment and Interviews, ensuring that:

• Quality & Safety: Every candidate is thoroughly screened and interviewed to meet my high standards.
• Expert Guidance: I use my firsthand experience to mentor applicants, helping them prepare for the realities and joys of living abroad.
• Meaningful Matches: I focus on creating connections between families and Au Pairs that are built on trust and mutual understanding.
• Visa Processes: Navigating the technical complexities of travel documents to ensure a smooth departure.

Today, I am committed to helping the next generation of adventurers discover the world, just as I did.

Meet Our Team: Expert Guidance from a Fellow Traveler

At Taking Abroad Au Pairs, we believe the best mentors are those who have lived the experience themselves. Our recruitment team is led by experts who understand the excitement, the challenges, and the incredible rewards of the Au Pair journey.

The Netherlands & Beyond: A Life-Changing Start

Our lead recruiter’s adventure began in 2001 in the charming town of Monnickendam, Netherlands. Living with the van Unnik Stibbe family and caring for Philippine (5) and Janneman (9), what was meant to be a one-year stay evolved into a profound, life-changing journey.
From the historic streets of Utrecht and Rotterdam to the iconic Anne Frank House and the windmills of Zaanse Schans, she fully immersed herself in Dutch culture. With spontaneous trips to Paris and London, her time abroad was a masterclass in independence, confidence, and building a global worldview.

The Heart of the Experience

Beyond the travel, the true value of her journey was the bond formed with her host family. Transitioning from “the Au Pair” to a true member of the family, she experienced firsthand the deep connections that make this program so special—connections that remain strong even decades later.

Professional Expertise Since 2009

With a career as an International Placement Agent and Recruiter dating back to 2009, she brings over 15 years of professional industry experience to our team. Her role involves:

• Strategic Recruitment: Identifying the most passionate and capable candidates.
• Support & Navigation: Guiding young people through the complexities of international placements.
• Educational Mentorship: Leading courses and programs designed to equip Au Pairs with the structure, care, and confidence they need to succeed.

She is dedicated to ensuring that every young person who joins our program has an unforgettable experience, backed by the same sense of adventure and professional care that shaped her own life.