At Carla’s Au Pairs, we are so proud of the incredible journeys our Au Pairs experience, and today we want to share the inspiring story of Sumari Schutte, one of CAP’s Super Au Pairs. Sumari’s host family in the USA has nominated her for the prestigious EurAupair 2025 Au Pair of the Year award, and after reading about her experiences, it’s easy to see why.

Sumari’s journey began when she arrived in Greenville, USA, after spending a week in New York. From the moment she stepped off the plane, she was welcomed with open arms by her host mom, Rachel, and the previous Au Pair, Kelcey, as the children were at camp. The warmth of the Speicher family made Sumari feel at home right away, and their two energetic children, Caroline (7) and Jefferson (10), quickly became the heart of her adventure.

 

A Blend of Fun and Responsibility

 

Being an Au Pair is about finding the perfect balance between responsibility and enjoyment. For Sumari, this means assisting with homework, taking the children to various activities, and organizing fun projects like arts and crafts and outdoor play. But it’s not just about the tasks – Sumari has formed deep, meaningful relationships with the children, becoming both a caregiver and a cherished friend.

Her dedication extends far beyond everyday responsibilities. Sumari’s love for sports is infectious, and she encourages the children to stay active, from soccer and tennis to whatever games Jefferson invents each week. Through her enthusiasm, the kids have grown stronger, more confident, and more motivated.

 

Embracing American Culture

 

One of the highlights of being an Au Pair is immersing yourself in the culture of your host country, and Sumari has done this wholeheartedly. She’s been part of the family’s treasured traditions, such as pumpkin carving for Halloween, selecting a fresh Christmas tree, and decorating gingerbread houses. One of her most exciting experiences was a trip to the Grand Canyon, where she had the opportunity to witness the natural wonder’s breathtaking beauty.

Sumari has also enjoyed sharing unique experiences with other Au Pairs, like attending the North Carolina State Fair and exploring New York City with her best friend from South Africa. These adventures have been the perfect opportunity for Sumari to bond with fellow Au Pairs while soaking in the essence of American life.

 

Overcoming Challenges

 

Like any big change, being an Au Pair comes with its share of challenges. Sumari admits that homesickness occasionally crept in, and there were times when cultural differences led to frustration. However, with the support of her host family and her determination to make the most of every moment, Sumari has navigated these obstacles with grace, learning resilience and growing as a person.

 

A Special Bond

 

What truly sets Sumari apart is the deep connection she has built with her host family. Her bond with the children is one of love, trust, and mutual respect. They look up to her as a role model and consider her a true friend. Sumari’s relationship with her host parents, Rachel and Jim, is equally special. They have enjoyed many conversations and shared experiences that have made Sumari feel like a true member of their family.

 

The Journey Continues

 

As Sumari reflects on her Au Pair year, she feels incredibly grateful for the love and kindness she has received from the Speicher family. She acknowledges that this experience has been a true journey of self-discovery, and she encourages anyone considering becoming an Au Pair to embrace the adventure. “It’s a chance to grow, explore, and create unforgettable memories,” she says.

Sumari’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of stepping outside your comfort zone. Her journey has been filled with incredible experiences, from cultural exploration to personal growth, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing things she will continue to accomplish in the months ahead.

We are so proud of Sumari and wish her the best of luck in the EurAupair 2025 Au Pair of the Year award. She is truly a shining example of everything that makes an Au Pair exceptional.

If you’re inspired by Sumari’s journey and want to learn more about becoming an Au Pair, click here to find out how you can start your own adventure today!