Seddwell's Story

Thisby Alarcón Khury Oleynik

Artist, Designer, Embroiderer and Art Educator. Textiles lover and Art Nerd. Born Brazilian but fascinated by learning about life, universe and everything with other people and different cultures.”

Adam Artizada

My name is Adam, I’m originally from Los Angeles but have been living in Austria for about three years. Some call me a jack of all trades because I’ve worked in everything from construction to video game design. Currently I am a teacher and digital media specialist. I enjoy cycling, rock climbing and long hikes with my dog.

Maria Abdelmessih

My name is Maria, I was born in Graz but my parents are originally from Egypt. I’m married and have four children. I started studying again in October 2018 as an Online Marketing and Social Media Managerin. I would like to work in a company with a social background. I’m currently enjoying my internship at Seddwell Center.

Bevil Byam

My name is Bevil! I am originally from Trinidad and Tobago but have been living in Austria with my partner for the past several years.

Growing up, I was always involved in the arts and this is still my passion today.
A former Graphic Designer, I now spend my time painting and handcrafting copper jewellery.
Additionally, I am a Metaphysical Practioner offering spiritual counseling and meditation training.
I love spicy food.

Luba Nurse

Crafter, educator and project manager in arts & heritage. I am British of Russian descent. I love how arts and crafts bring people together, and make a community.

Nora Steinbach

German-austrian mix with other european influences
Cultural anthropologist with a focus on female empowerment through art & crafts, urban cultures and media science.

Laura Kozub

My name is Laura. I am originally from Detroit, Michigan but have lived in Graz since 2015. I have also lived in France and Germany. My husband is German and we have two children. In my free time you can find me hiking, running, trying a new yoga class, or cooking something delicious. I have a background in Human Resource Development from a variety of industries. I have always been drawn to the international community in both my personal life and career. I love watching different cultures work together to create something powerful. My goal is to live a life with purpose and with compassion inspiring others to do the same.

Kelly Plathe

Hi! My family and I have lived in the countryside of Graz since 2013. I have been teaching yoga since 2010 and manage the Akasha Well-being Program at Seddwell Center. Aside from yoga, I enjoy playing with my two kids, gardening, reading, cooking, drinking good wine and spending time with friends.

Erlend Depine

Erlend is actually a stuffed sloth. He spends his days organizing gin tasting events and outdoor markets. This is a rare picture of him in his natural habitat.

Debbie Adams

Rebekah Berković

I’m Rebekah, I am half-British and half-Croatian and have been living in Austria for two years. I have been teaching English and Croatian to youth and adults for several years and I find joy when I spend time with students as we learn and grow together. I have lived in 5 countries, speak 2 and a half languages, love animals, nature, art and rock-climbing. I am passionate about accessible education and equality. I love good food, spontaneous adventures and new people.

Sabine Eichler

Even though I was born and raised in Graz, I have always been very internationally minded. After graduating as a translator and interpreter for English and Italian in 1999, I started my own language school. Besides languages, I love sports and for a while I was a competitive horse-back rider. Now I enjoy jogging and doing yoga and my daughter has kept me busy, too. The more relaxed Sabine in me enjoys a good glass of wine in combination with delicious food.