Brett Kobie talks with Shweta Kulkarni van Biesen. The conversation highlights the bustling and sometimes overwhelming environment of the Parliament, where Shweta reflects on her experiences as an Indian woman finding her place in the EU communications field. She discusses the initial identity crisis many face in the EU quarter, struggling with relevance and self-discovery. Shweta recounts her early days representing a medical devices trade association and her efforts to raise awareness about plasma donation, despite feeling insignificant amidst the personal concerns of others in Brussels.
The podcast emphasizes the universal nature of identity crises among newcomers to the EU quarter and Shweta's journey to find her voice and place. She offers advice to others, encouraging them to recognize the value of their unique experiences and contributions. The episode aims to explore the diverse, often hidden aspects of life within the European Parliament and the broader EU quarter, combining personal stories with broader political and social contexts.