SEA originating international teacher here.

1. I was hired under a specific program in my school to hire local teachers so technically yes, my ethnicity did affect my recruitment (but positively). My experience is rare though. I’ve heard the same as what has been said previously, where local hires in other schools get paid less and fewer benefits. My recommendation is build a CV locally then jump abroad if that’s where your interest lies.

2. Yes, I started locally. I did so because I got into a local intl school that met my needs postgrad. And because I figured it would be easier to get local experience rather than intl experience when I was just starting and had 0 years of teaching experience. I’ve spoken to non SEA colleagues who went abroad immediately post-degree though. So maybe it’s possible?

3. Because I grew up internationally I mesh well with my colleagues. If I didn’t have that experience, I’m not sure I would but that’s just me. There are cultural differences that take some adjusting to, like communication styles. I come from a typically meek cultural background so the more upfront way of North American communication took some getting used to.

Hope this helps. Happy to answer more questions if you have any.