Kobis Kari - Coby and Gary

Coby and Gary share many similarities.

They both have four letters in their names, they end with ‘y’ (which explains their constant curiosities), their surnames start with the letter ‘L’, they were born in Malaysia (though one in the east and other in the west of the country), they studied in Melbourne and both currently working in the international education sector.

They are extremely dedicated in helping and supporting international students. Both have been through the whole journey of being an international student in Australia and now call Australia home. And like most people, they have been working from home.

During these uncertain times, most of us are required to stay home to protect ourselves and the wider community. Gary and Coby would like to grab this opportunity to engage with international students by sharing a bit of their own stories and experiences so far.

What is the first thing you do in the morning these days?

CL: The first thing I like to do in the morning is to make myself a healthy smoothie in the kitchen with my amazing blender! I believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day so every morning I want to make sure that my body consumes all the important nutrients and start the day with a positive mindset and great energy! I have been doing this for more than three years and I don't think I could live a day without having my smoothies!

GL: I like a workout first thing in the morning, so with gym closed, I am reliant on home workouts. My non-negotiable workouts (ones I have to do every day) are push-ups (wide hand stance to diamond), crunches, squats and planks. Then I have a cup of coffee and start the day at 9am, as I usually do.

Assuming you both work from home now, what do you do to take time off?

CL: I am big fan of health and wellbeing. I like investing my time in doing self-care activities such as yoga, meditation, a walk or run along the creek, listening to soft music etc. Other than that, having good hobbies and lifestyle are very important in maintaining my mental health. Occasionally, I would spend time in the nature, walking around with my camera, taking lovely photos of the river, trees, birds etc. It helps in keeping me grounded and appreciative of the little blessings I have in life.

GL: I love the outdoors, so whenever I get the chance, you will probably find me swimming, hiking or kayaking in some national park, beach or river. These days, while the weather is still somewhat good, I take every opportunity to have a walk, or do a workout at a park or sports oval near to my home.

How do you stay connected to family and friends?

CL: I communicate with my parents on Whatsapp every now and then and I make sure that I visit them at least once every year. Other than my parents, I also miss the delicious food and wonderful friends back in my hometown, Miri. Although I have established a good life in Australia with a supportive network of friends, sometimes, I miss the good old days when I used to hang out with close friends and did adventurous things together in the nature. I mainly stay connected with my friends through facebook and instagram nowadays. I use social media as a way to stay connected with friends especially those in overseas.

GL: We have multiple WhatsApp groups for immediate family, cousins and close friends. So we keep each other informed and entertained with updates and photos almost every day. I also like to send random check-ins to friends!

What are you favourite activities to unwind these days?

CL: I enjoy having wine in the evening but don't worry, I am not an alcoholic, resting on the couch and do nothing but not to the extent of being a couch potato, and I love listening to soft or classical music to relax and let go of negative energy.

GL: Surprisingly, it’s cooking. Not much of a cook, but this lockdown has inspired me to be more creative with what I do in the kitchen. Dished up delicious meals. Highlights include creamy prawn alfredo pasta, salted egg pasta, and a delicious tuna bake! Also obsessed with asparagus, Brussels Sprout and wombok.

What is your go-to snack at home?

CL: Mainly fruits and mixed nuts. Sometimes, I can be a bit naughty and have some Oreo biscuits. Haha 

GL: Wasabi peas and Cheezels.

Wine, beer or spirits?

CL: Honestly, this really depend on my mood and also who I am with. Usually, I prefer wine, champagne or cider. I'll have beer sometimes when I am with my mates. Spirits... Umm... not much at all as I don't really like the strong alcoholic taste.

GL: Definitely wine. Usually a Shiraz.

How would you describe this isolation experience of a pandemic lockdown in 3 words?

CL: Reflective, Productive and Supportive

GL: Adaptive, Insightful and Liberating

Have questions for Coby and Gary? Please post them here and they (we) will answer them!