Yadana

Travel information

I am currently

Description

Hi there! I’m Yadana (Helene), originally from Burma (Myanmar) and currently based in Southern California while I work on the next chapter of my journey (which I will disclose in my communication with you). I recently graduated with a MA in Peace and Justice from the University of San Diego and looking for Workaway opportunities where I can contribute meaningfully, learn new skills, and connect deeply with the people and environment around me.

🐶 My Experience & What I Love to Do

Animal Care:
I’ve been surrounded by animals all my life - my parents regularly adopt stray dogs and cats, so caring for them has always been part of my daily routine. I’m observant, and loving with animals, and I’m confident with feeding, walking, bathing, brushing, giving medication, and spending quality time so they feel safe and cared for. I helped take care of the two beautiful ponies at my last workaway house.

Gardening & Outdoor Work:
I love being active and outdoors - planting, weeding, watering, yard work, or helping with light maintenance. I enjoy seeing things grow and thrive and don’t mind getting my hands dirty. The only note is that I can’t work directly under strong midday sun (it gives me headaches), but once I understand the tasks, I plan my outdoor work for the cooler hours before or after peak sun.

Cooking & Cultural Exchange:
I’m a passionate foodie and an experimental cook, especially with Burmese-inspired (both plant-based and carnivore) dishes. Cooking and food are among my favorite ways to share my culture and learn about others’. I’m always excited to exchange recipes, try new techniques, and turn simple meals into shared stories.

Cleaning, Organizing & Housesitting:
I love creating calm, functional spaces. I’m happy to help with household chores, organizing, or maintaining communal areas. I believe small details make a big difference in shared living. I’m also comfortable house-sitting when hosts are away, taking responsibility for the home’s upkeep, security, and daily routines so everything stays clean, cared for, and running smoothly in your absence.

Language & Teaching:
I enjoy language exchange and have experience supporting others in conversational English and spoken Burmese. Personally, I have been learning French and German. I also love meaningful conversations whether it’s about mindfulness, future goals, or creating action plans and I’m always excited to learn from different worldviews.

Childcare:
I worked as a Teaching Assistant for kids’ summer and drama classes in my late teens and early 20s, and I truly enjoy spending time with children of different ages. Whether it’s playing, reading, helping with homework, or keeping them engaged with activities, I approach childcare with warmth, patience, and attentiveness. I also enjoy teaching through play, and creating fun, meaningful learning moments through stories, language, and simple crafts.

🌱 A Bit More About Me

I first had my Workaway experience in Normandy, France in 2017 (See feedback), where I helped with yard and household projects, and I’m currently doing a second Workaway experience in San Diego. I practice yin yoga and mindfulness, love walking and being active, and thrive in environments where people are curious, intentional, and community-minded.

I’m available for longer stays (preferably a month or more) and am very flexible with schedules, tasks, and ways of helping out.

Interests

Technology

Videography

Politics / Social justice

Events & social

Sustainability

Fashion or beauty

Culture

Farming

Self development

Charity work

Books

Music

History

Cooking & food

Languages

Photography

Performing arts

Yoga / Wellness

Fitness

Dancing

Beach

Outdoor activities

Languages

Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Burmese: Fluent
French: Intermediate
German: Beginner

More details about my language interests
I am a native speaker of Burmese and a fluent speaker of English which I have been using in the last 12 years in different settings such as work and travel. I know French and German, for both I am picking up again in life and am motivated to reach a certain fluency level.

Find a language buddy

Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Creating/ Cooking family meals

General Maintenance

Helping around the house

Life at a Farmstay

House & pet sitting

Eco Projects

Art Projects

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Some knowledge of:  

Gardening

DIY and building projects

Babysitting and creative play

Animal Care

Hospitality/Tourism

Charity Work

Teaching

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Able to teach about:  

Languages

Helping with Computers/ Internet

More details about your skills

I enjoy exploring a variety of creative, practical, and interpersonal skills that I’ve developed over time. In addition to what is mentioned in the description above, the skills I have are:

Photography:
I’m an amateur photographer and love capturing moments with my Nikon DSLR D5500 whenever I can - especially nature, animals, and everyday life.

Gardening:
At home, I regularly help my dad care for our garden, from planting and weeding to maintaining healthy plants. I’m happiest when I can work with my hands and watch things grow.

Baking:
I love experimenting in the kitchen and baking is a particular passion — cinnamon rolls, and banana bread are my specialties. I enjoy creating meals that bring people together and sharing flavors from my Burmese background.

Tech Skills:
I’m a self-taught computer user, comfortable with both Windows and Mac, and often help others troubleshoot and learn new skills. I'm very Mac savvy now.

Singing & Music:
Music is one of my greatest joys. I love singing - whether casually at home or in group settings and enjoy exploring different genres. I used to make music (uploads on YouTube and Soundcloud) and play guitar, both of which I’d love to get back into. I also have a good ear for music and love how it brings people together, whether through shared playlists, spontaneous singalongs, or simply creating a warm, lively atmosphere.

Fitness & Wellness:
I’m passionate about staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I train regularly in weightlifting, enjoy long walks, and practice yin yoga and mindfulness. I believe physical well-being supports mental clarity and energy - something I bring to my daily routine and work environment.

Age

31

What else ...

I'm a very responsible, reliable person and I'm willing to follow the hosts' rules if you have any! Being a private person myself, you don't really need to worry about me interfering your privacy during the stay. I'm happy to know your can-s and cannot-s around your place!

Some more information

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  Smoker

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  Driver's licence

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  Allergies
  No

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  Special dietary requirements
  No