In this heartfelt Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I sit down with Shak — a photographer and restaurant owner originally from India, now living on the Sunshine Coast. With 18 years of experience navigating life in Australia, Shak shares his raw and relatable journey from student migrant to successful business owner, father, and proud Aussie resident.
From ordering coffee without saying “please” to the power of joining hobby groups, Shak opens up about the real-life language and cultural shocks many international students and migrants face when learning Australian English and adjusting to Aussie life.
We explore the power of community, why “the magic word” matters, and how Aussies use casual English and subtle communication to build connection. Whether you're learning the Australian accent, improving your English, or just trying to feel at home — this episode is for you.
This conversation is filled with real-life examples, Aussie English expressions, and mindset shifts to help you:
Understand Australian politeness and social cues
Use the “magic word” (please!) naturally
Build your confidence in Aussie conversations
Navigate cultural differences between India and Australia
Settle into life as a migrant or international student
Key Highlights:
Shak's 18-year migration story: From India to Australia
Starting out in Sydney and the fast-paced city life
From hospitality job to launching a Sunshine Coast restaurant
Adjusting to Aussie culture: Language, manners and surprises
Migrant reflections on city life, resilience and growth
Raising a multicultural family and navigating identity
The role of language, dialects and staying connected to roots
Looking to improve your own Aussie English?I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations.
📲 How to Contact Shak
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capturedbymota/
Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: