The Relocated South African

Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to pack up your life in South Africa and start over in a place as far away as New Zealand? What makes someone leave everything familiar behind and begin again, especially when safety and a better future for their family are at stake?In this episode, I chat to Dr. Kobus Du Plooy, a clinical psychologist who took the leap from Pretoria to Otago, New Zealand with his wife, right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. We talk about the tough decisions that led up to their move, including the safety concerns that played a big part, Kobus’s career journey, adjusting to a new country, and how starting over brings both challenges and unexpected joys.I really enjoyed this conversation with Kobus. He was such a down-to-earth guest, and I appreciated how open he was about the emotional side of relocating - from leaving family behind, to facing loneliness, to eventually finding their feet and building a new life. I found it especially moving to hear how he and his wife support each other and the practical advice he had for others considering a similar move.If you’re thinking of moving abroad, or you're just curious about life in New Zealand as a South African, I think you’ll find Kobus’s story both relatable and inspiring.“When I speak to a lot of South Africans here, they said had their circumstances been different, they wouldn't have wanted to make this move.” - Kobus Du Plooy00:00 Introduction05:58 Making the move mid-pandemic10:03 Prioritising family safety15:48 Balancing familiarity and change abroad20:05 Overcoming reluctance to socialise27:57 “It’s not for sissies”31:11 Life isn’t always fair34:43 Navigating change for the sake of opportunity38:20 Teaching our kids to have manners41:38 What he would have done differentlyFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.comThis podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:https://www.zapods.com

In this episode, I speak with Justinus Adriaanse, a South African entrepreneur now based in Canada. We discuss Justinus' journey from Pretoria to Canada, the challenges and triumphs of relocating.He shares how skiing became a passion and a way to connect with his new life in Canada.He emphasises the importance of family support during the immigration process. Justinus shares insights on maintaining ties to South Africa and the impact of his coding academy, We Think Code which provides opportunities for preserving candidates to learn coding skills.We Think Code has transformed the lives of many underprivileged youth in South AfricaWe also discuss his passion for rugby and the role it has in connecting South Africans abroad. He emphasises the need for action and consistency in making a difference, whether in business or charitable endeavours.Justinus Adriaanse: “Being on the same page is key." "You have to push your comfort zone."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Relocation02:54 Justinus' Early Life and Move to Canada06:35 The Skiing Adventure and Its Impact10:52 The Importance of Family Support in Immigration13:07 Children's Adaptation and Cultural Identity17:36 Feeling More South African Abroad19:48 Charitable Work and Impact of We Think Code26:34 Government Support and Collaboration28:45 Rugby Vision and Community Projects31:12 The Journey to the Final: A Rugby Fan's Adventure33:30 Building a Rugby Talent Pipeline in South Africa36:44 The Importance of Opportunity in Sports37:43 Challenges of Starting Over in a New Country40:31 Networking: The Key to Entrepreneurial Success42:42 Changing Perceptions: South Africans Abroad50:28 Lessons Learned: Reflections on Immigration53:49 Advice for Young South Africans: Exploring OpportunitiesJustinus and Flip van Der Merwe´s podcast Winning the away Game is available on all podcast platforms and Youtube :https://www.youtube.com/@WinningtheAwayGamePodcastContact Justinus on Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/justinusadriaanseFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

Have you considered the feelings and emotions of parents whose children emigrate?   In this episode I talk to Dr Sulette Ferreira, a migration therapist specializing in emigration therapy for families living apart. We discuss the emotional challenges faced by families, particularly parents left behind when children emigrate.  Sulette highlights the concept of ambiguous loss, the importance of maintaining relationships across distances, and the need for community support. She emphasizes that emigration affects family dynamics and that parents often experience grief and longing for their children. The conversation also touches on the importance of seeking professional help and maintaining a positive relationship with children who have emigrated. The conversation was interesting, and it made me appreciate caring for those who remain behind. Sulette Ferreira: "Ambiguous loss is a continuous loss." Chapters00:00 Navigating emigration and Family Dynamics03:23 Understanding the Emotional Impact of emigration08:11 The Complexities of Long-Distance Relationships12:40 Grief and Ambiguous Loss in emigration17:01 The Role of Community and Support Systems21:53 Financial and Logistical Challenges of emigration26:36 Finding Meaning and Maintaining Relationships33:47 Actionable Advice for Parents Left Behind Dr Sulette can be contacted at www.drsulette.com. She is also on Facebook as Dr Sulette Ferreira and she has a private Facebook group for parents who stay behind “Worlds apart living in one heart” Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode, I speak with Reeva Cutting, a South African expat living in Perth, Australia. Reeva shares her journey of immigration, the challenges of moving with family, and the importance of mental health and support systems. Emigrating three times and finally finding her home in Perth Western Australia, reeva has a wealth of information and advice that she shares in the discussion.We discuss the financial considerations for immigrants, cultural adjustments, and the reflections on life as an expat. Reeva emphasises the need for commitment when relocating and offers valuable advice for those considering immigration.Reeva Cutting: “Be prepared to change your plan."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Immigration and Blogging03:02 Reeva's Immigration Journey05:49 Challenges of Moving with Family08:59 Navigating Work and Mental Health11:53 Financial Considerations for Immigrants14:50 Cultural Adjustments and Support Systems17:48 Life in Australia vs. South Africa20:37 Reflections on Expat Life23:54 Advice for Prospective ImmigrantsReeva´s website is www.proudlysouthafricaninperth.com and she is on Facebook as “Proudly South African in Perth” and you can contact her at howzit@proudlysouthafricaninperth.com.Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode, I speak  with Wendy Carlsson, a South African who relocated to Sweden. Wendy shares her journey from growing up in a coloured community in Cape Town to adapting to life in Sweden.She shares her experiences with cultural differences, starting a business, and the challenges of being away from her family. She reflects on the beauty of her new life while also expressing the emotional complexities of leaving her homeland. Wendy offers insights into the cost of living in Sweden, the importance of community, and advice for young South Africans considering emigration.She makes a point to travel back home regularly to see her family.Wendy Carlsson: "Life in Sweden has been wonderful, perfect growth for me in that in a world where you don't have to worry about safety," Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey02:49 Wendy's Background and Early Life11:51 Life in Sweden: A New Beginning13:06 Starting a Business in Sweden15:05 Adapting to Swedish Winters17:11 Cultural Differences and Food20:01 Reflections on South Africa23:26 Cost of Living and Community28:31 Advice for Young South Africans33:15 Conclusion and Future AspirationsFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

In this episode I speak to Marlene Prentice the owner of Migration Network Australia. She shares the inspiring journey of a family determined to emigrate to Australia despite facing numerous challenges.  Their journey motivated her to leave her accounting career to become an immigration agent to help others. One of the beautiful stories she shares is about a young mother who, lacking qualifications and work experience, embarked on a seven-year journey to secure a visa for her family. Through perseverance and dedication, she successfully navigated the visa process, ultimately achieving her dream of settling in Australia with her family. She offers valuable advice for people who want to immigrate to Australia.  Marlene prentice: “ I don’t like taking people’s money knowing that they are not going to get a visa…” 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:03 Marlene's Journey to Australia 00:09 Cultural Differences and Challenges 00:15 Establishing Migration Network Australia 00:21 Advice for Future Immigrants 00:27 Current Immigration Landscape in Australia 00:33 Conclusion and Contact Information Marlene’s contact details are as follows: Website https://www.migrationnetworkaustralia.com Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode I speak with Nic Latouf, a South African entrepreneur and co-founder of the Lekker Network. We discuss Nic's journey from Pretoria Boys High to building a global network for South Africans, emphasising the importance of community, connection, and the potential of the South African diaspora. We explore the challenges and opportunities faced by South Africans abroad, the significance of networking, and the positive impact of the Lekker Network in fostering collaboration and support among its members. Nic shares insights on maintaining a positive mindset, the emotional toll of immigration, and the upcoming book 'Winning the Away Game,' which highlights the successes of South Africans worldwide.He also discusses the need top maintain positivity and wellness for South Africans abroad.Nic Latouf: “Focus is the key to success."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Relocated South African Podcast01:10 Nic Latouf: Background and Early Ventures03:01 The Birth of the Lekker Network08:42 Building a Global Community of South Africans12:59 The Power of the South African Diaspora16:14 Connecting Opportunities: Real Stories of Impact18:54 Future Plans and the Impact of the Lekker Network30:37 Maintaining Independence and Future Investments33:12 The Power of Positivity in the Diaspora36:22 Navigating Family Dynamics and Immigration Challenges42:25 Inclusivity in Business Networks46:56 Celebrating South African Success Stories53:03 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs56:59 Balancing Work and Family LifeNic is active on Linkedin @niclatouf. Visit the Lekker network at www.the lekkernetwork.com.Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode of the Relocated South African podcast, host I speak  with Kirsty Jones, founder of Federated Advisory in Dubai. Kirsty shares her journey from South Africa to Dubai, discussing the safety, stability, and opportunities the UAE offers for expats. She highlights the challenges of starting a business in a new country, the importance of transparency in advisory services, and the need for community among South Africans abroad. She also believes that the UAE offers a transparent government and very low taxes combined with absolute physical safety.Kirsty also addresses the cultural dynamics of being a woman in business, the cost of living in Dubai, and the unique challenges of communication in the UAE. Maintaining family connections is critical for emotional well-being.The conversation concludes with valuable advice for those considering relocation to the UAE.Kirsty Jones: “Dubai is very fitness focused." "I miss South African chips so much!"Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Relocated South African Show01:04 Kirsty Jones: Journey from South Africa to Dubai02:13 Why Choose the UAE? Safety and Stability03:16 Starting a Business in Dubai: Kirsty's Experience05:14 The Need for Transparency in Advisory Services06:56 Navigating Business Setup in the UAE08:14 Common Business Ventures for South Africans09:47 Supporting South Africans in Job Searches11:07 Overcoming Red Tape in the UAE12:19 Cultural Dynamics: Women in Business15:46 Challenges of Isolation in a New Country17:12 Building Community Among Expats18:51 The Temporary Nature of Life in Dubai19:07 Connecting People and Networking20:02 Finding Accommodation in Dubai20:30 Coping with the UAE's Climate24:41 Cost of Living: Balancing Salaries and Expenses28:30 Understanding Alcohol Regulations in the UAE29:49 Communication Challenges: WhatsApp and VPNs33:04 Advice for Future Expats34:34 Final Thoughts on Relocating to the UAEContact Kirsty at www.federatedadvisory.comFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

A few thoughts on the complexities of celebrating Christmas as an expatriate from South Africa. I share personal experiences of joy and sadness during the holiday season, with emphasis the emotional toll of immigration on family connections. I talk about the challenges of maintaining relationships with children and grandchildren who live far away, and the bittersweet nature of long-distance family gatherings. Treasure time with loved ones and to reach out to others who may be experiencing similar feelings of separation and loss.Jan Hugo: “I know your pain. I know how you feel."Chapters00:00 Christmas Reflections: A Time of Joy and Sadness06:04 The Impact of Immigration on Family Connections08:45 Sharing the Journey: Connecting with Others in Similar SituationsFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode I chat to Desmond Denton an award-winning filmmaker who lives in Washington DC in the United States. We discuss his and his family’s journey from Stellenbosch to the United States.We also explore the challenges and triumphs of immigration and he shares insights on his filmmaking career, the emotional impact of leaving home and the importance of preserving cultural identity.Desmond’s film The Journey Home explores the lives of families and especially children who left South Africa for the United States. It is clear from the film and our discussion that children often experience a different emotional impact during immigration.We discuss the complexities of relocation, the significance of storytelling, and the lessons learned along the way.I found the discussion truly motivational and I really enjoyed Desmond’s maturity, hi faith and his amazing love for the arts.Desmond Denton: "You have to capture the present moment."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Desmond Denton and His Work03:12 Desmond's Journey in Filmmaking07:16 The Decision to Immigrate to the US13:45 Living Out Faith in Filmmaking16:27 The Journey Home: A Film on Immigration22:14 Reflections on Leaving South Africa23:59 Navigating Cultural Loss and Family Dynamics27:13 The Journey of Doubt and Adaptation30:48 The Emotional Toll of Immigration34:11 Cultural Identity and Connection Abroad37:07 Reflections on Life Choices and OpportunitiesIf you want to know more about Desmond and his filmmaking , his website is https://www.desmonddenton.com. Festive Season Far From HomeTo all South Africans spending this festive season far from the place that shaped you… we see you.The longing hits a little harder this time of year—boerewors fires, familiar voices, the smell of rain on red earth.Journey Home shares the real and raw experiences of families who took the brave leap to start over in the US. But the truest storytellers? Their children.If you’re missing home, or know someone preparing for the journey… this film is a companion.The Journey Home film is available on Amazon Prime in some locations and also on this link https://tubitv.com/movies/100028024/the-journey-homeorhttps://www.roku.com/en-gb/whats-on/movies/the-journey-home?id=ff017c49a376ffde41d679b87bad2533orhttps://tv.apple.com/gb/movie/the-journey-home/umc.cmc.4s5q6gynzbp3ztjqnfdm0onokFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

n this episode, I speak to Lumond Kritzinger, founder of HowzitExpats.com, about his emigration journey from South Africa to Ireland. We discuss the challenges and planning involved in emigration, the importance of community, and the role of HowzitExpats in supporting South Africans abroad. Lumondt shares insights on financial planning, cultural integration, and the significance of well-being for expats.He emphasises the need to plan properly in order to make emigration successful.He shares details for his well-being survey that is underway for South African expats.Lumondt Kritzinger: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail”  Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:03 Lumondt’s Immigration Journey00:09 Challenges and Planning in Immigration00:15 Community and Cultural Integration00:21 Financial Planning for Expats00:27 The Role of HowzitExpats00:33 Well-being and Family Dynamics00:39 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you want to know more about Lumondt and the well-being survey, his website is https://www.howzitexpats.com.Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

In this episode, I speak to Janet Edwards, author of The Overseas Caregiver's Guid.  We discuss the challenges and emotional weight of emigrating from South Africa to Australia.  We discuss the importance of planning for the future, including legal documents like power of attorney and wills, and the emotional toll of caring for parents from afar.  Janet shares her experiences managing her parents' care and finances, as well as practical advice for expats on how to stay connected with family back home.  The conversation emphasises the need for organisation, communication, and support networks for those navigating the complexities of emigration and caregiving. She offers valuable advice for people with parents in South Africa and the importance of stayingg connected. Janet Edwards: “Just “do one thing”   Chapters 00:00 Navigating Immigration and Family Separation02:44 The Emotional Weight of emigration05:44 The Overseas Caregiver's Guide: A Roadmap08:38 Planning for the Future: Power of Attorney and Wills11:49 Caring for Parents from Afar14:27 Financial Management and Medical Aid17:35 Dealing with Scams and Financial Safety20:29 Balancing Emotions and Practicalities in Caregiving23:24 Advice for Expats: Staying Connected26:10 Reflecting on the emigration Journey29:06 Final Thoughts and Resources Janet’s contact details are as follows: Website:     https://www.theoverseascaregiver.com/overseascaregiverSales Page https://www.theoverseascaregiver.com/overseascaregiverorderform   Fb Group   The Overseas CaregiverInstagram   the_overseas_caregiveremail          janet@theoverseascaregiver.com Book : AU$27 with a 44% discount voucher running until Friday, 12 December 2025 at 23h00 (Brisbane time)Voucher Code:  FLAMINGO Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Imagine learning Afrikaans at a university in America. in this conversation I talk to Professor Jacques Duplessis who teaches Afrikaans at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.  He shares shares his journey from South Africa to the United States, discussing his passion for teaching Afrikaans and the cultural connections he maintains.  He also talks about his love for poetry and the resources that he has built to promote the teaching of Afrikaans all over the world. He emphasizes the importance of humor, music, and family ties in navigating life abroad, while also reflecting on identity and the challenges faced by immigrants.  Jacques offers valuable advice for young South Africans considering their future, highlighting the richness of their cultural heritage and the importance of staying connected to their roots.I really enjoyed Jacques’ passion for Afrikaans and his people while building a life in the United States.  Jacques Du Plessis:"Afrikaans is a WYSIWYG language."Chapters00:00 Navigating Immigration and Personal Journeys03:13 Cultural Connections and Language Teaching05:50 Innovations in Language Education09:12 The Global Interest in Afrikaans11:56 Challenges of Less Commonly Taught Languages15:01 Language Proficiency and Cultural Nuances17:57 Understanding South African Humor20:53 Cultural Differences in Friendships23:46 The Depth of South African Connections29:31 The Richness of Afrikaans Language36:29 Cultural Identity and Language44:57 The Role of Music in Language Learning52:55 Reflections on Life Choices and IdentityFind out more about Jacques’ work on www.afrikaans.us and his personal website www.jacquesduplessis.com.Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com 

The decision to emigrate has lifelong implications and challenges for everyone involved. In this episode I talk to Andrew Rissik, the Group International Director of Sable International, a well know company that has a slogan of “internationalize yourself, your wealth and your business.”Andrew speaks from own experience having moved to Portugal for part of the year while maintaining his roots in South Africa. He highlights common misconceptions, the importance of planning, tax implications, and the emotional aspects of relocating. There is no substitute for thorough research and professional advice when considering emigration. He touches on the significance of community, education opportunities abroad, and the impact of leaving loved ones behind.It was a great discussion with someone who has obviously paid his own school fees and is prepared to share his experience with the listeners.Andrew Rissik: "Engage with a trusted partner."  Chapters02:31 Andrew Rissik’s background and journey04:52 Understanding the decision to Emigrate09:36 The Importance of Planning and Research11:57 Community and Support in New Environments18:23 Navigating Tax Implications of Emigration25:17 Navigating Nationality and Immigration Claims27:35 Visa and Immigration Services Post-Brexit29:55 Investment Migration and Financial Planning32:15 Documentation Challenges and Government Backlogs34:34 Housing and Accommodation Considerations39:13 Understanding Costs of Living Abroad46:02 Cultural Adaptation and Emotional Challenges51:06 Family Dynamics and Caregiving in Emigration48:23 Seeking Professional Guidance for EmigrationIf you want to know more about the services of Sable International, their website is www.sableinternational.com. All the services and contact details are available on the website.Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Imagine being a young aircraft engineer in the 1980’s in South Africa who goes to Russia to work on a top secret  military project.In this episode, I talk to  Kobus De Villiers, who shares his journey from South Africa to Canada. Kobus tells us about his experiences  in aerospace engineering, and the secret project to build the MIG-29 engine into the South African Airforce’s Mirage and Cheetah aircraft.Kobus has written 5 books and numerous articles, We discuss the challenges of emigration, the cultural adjustments in Canada, and his passion for writing, including his published works. He reflects on his life choices, the importance of commitment in emigration, and offers advice for those considering leaving South Africa.It was a fascinating discussion with a man who has great passion for his work, his family and his writing and has lived an amazing life.Kobus De Villiers: “my morals and my values are just not going to allow me to go there..” 00:00 Introduction to The Relocated South African Podcast02:35 Kobus De Villiers: Journey from South Africa to Canada05:03 Career in Aerospace Engineering and Military Projects07:38 Collaboration with Russian Engineers on Military Aircraft10:06 Transition to Life in Canada and New Opportunities12:37 Challenges and Experiences in the Aerospace Industry15:01 Family Life and Dual Citizenship17:25 Writing Journey and Publishing Books27:26 Writing and Personal Growth33:34 Exploring the Publishing World41:32 Reflections on Life Choices and emigration48:21 Advice for Potential ImmigrantsKobus De Villiers’ books are available on Amazon both in hard copy and e books and at Kobus de Villiers Archives | Malherbe UitgewersFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Imagine moving to the UK and building a successful life and career but after more than 20 years deciding to go back to South Africa. In this episode, I chat to Wolf Dette, the owner of Wolfies Bar in London, who shares his journey from South Africa to the UK and back. Wolf discusses his early life, ambitions in finance and the challenges of running a business during COVID. He talks about the family’s decision to return to South Africa for family and community support. He also explores the world of NFT's and crypto investments, reflecting on the importance of resilience and cultural identity. I really enjoyed Wolf’s entrepreneurial spirit and his drive to provide what is best for his son’s health challenges. Wolf Dette: "the amount of growing up that you do when you go overseas and there is no one to help you. No parents no friends ..” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey01:20 Early Life and Ambitions04:29 Transition to the UK and Career Development05:47 The Birth of little Wolf08:21 A big UK tax bill09:33 First Bitcoin purchase16:30 Success in the UK21:23 Community and Support Systems23:20 Reflections on Safety and Crime25:20 Cultural Identity and Resilience28:00 Healthcare and Family Considerations32:33 Crime in the UK39:00 Things change when you emigrate and grow up Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Have you ever thought about the challenges of selling everything to be ready to emigrate and then Covid arrived?In this episode, I speak to Hettie Meyer who relocated to Wellsford, New Zealand from the East Rand in South Africa. We talk about the family’s  journey from South Africa, the challenges of moving, and the differences in lifestyle, culture, and healthcare in New Zealand.I really enjoyed hearing about Hettie’s experiences with moving, childcare and the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones back home. For me the conversation highlights the emotional aspects of emigration, the adjustments required, and the freedom and safety that come with living in New Zealand.If emigration is on your horison you will find Hettie’s advice very useful."Don't bring your furniture."-Hettie MeyerChapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey02:46 Life in Wellsford, New Zealand05:45 The Decision to Move08:48 Challenges of Relocation11:51 Family and Childcare in New Zealand14:46 Cultural Differences and Community17:30 Healthcare and Safety20:32 Maintaining Family Connections23:33 Reflections on South Africa26:34 Food and Lifestyle Differences29:08 Advice for Potential emigrantsFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Do we sometimes neglect the feelings of parents who stay behind when their children decide to emigrate. In this conversation, I speak with Rene Koekemoer, a South African mother who has two daughters who live abroad. We discuss the emotional journey of being a parent left behind, the sacrifices made by both parents and children, and the impact of distance on family dynamics. Rene shares her experiences of coping with separation, the importance of support systems, and the unconditional love that drives parents to want the best fortheir children, even when it means living far apart. The discussion with Rene left me with a clear understanding of the emotional rollercoaster of a parent with children abroad. Her journey clearly reflects the emotional complexities of being a parent left behind. Parents often suppress their emotions to remain strong for their children. Support systems for parents left behind are non-existent.  “I will never judge them."- René Koekemoer  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Immigration02:44 Life as a Parent Left Behind05:51 Navigating Emotions of Separation08:47 Understanding the Decision to Leave11:54 The Impact of Distance on Family Dynamics14:47 The Loss of Family Connections17:32 Coping with the Emotions of Departure20:38 The Role of Support Systems23:23 Finding Positivity in Separation26:34 Advice for Parents of Immigrants29:27 The Unconditional Love ofParents Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to face major life challenges far away from the familiar comforts of home and family? Or how it feels to build a new identity and raise a family abroad, without the built-in support systems so many of us take for granted?In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Ruth Prinsloo, whose story takes us from her childhood in Boksburg, to a life spread across continents. Ruth has not only navigated the practical and emotional realities of relocating -moving through France, Japan, and now the Netherlands - but has also beat cancer, rebuilt her sense of self, and raised a family in a foreign land, all while being far from her closest relatives.Interviewing Ruth left a deep impression on me. She speaks with such honesty about the difficulties of coping with illness when your family is thousands of kilometres away, the challenge of forming your own identity in a new country, and the bittersweet emotions involved in seeing your children create their own connections with South Africa from afar.If you’re interested in the real, sometimes raw experience of carving out a life abroad - especially when it comes to family, health, and finding your place in the world - you won’t want to miss Ruth’s moving and insightful story.“To be able to let go of my idea of how I thought it would work out and just simply take it as it comes.” - Ruth Prinsloo00:00 Introduction05:21 An out-of-the-blue opportunity in Japan09:15 How she ended up in Amsterdam11:20 Her journey with cancer14:00 Crafting as part of recovery16:35 Pursuing bronze sculpting21:04 Meeting a renowned sculptor26:43 Playing rugby in Holland31:40 SA vs European perspective35:06 Coping with fear and trauma40:38 Looking forward, not backwards44:53 She experienced a medical miracleResourcesJoin ‘South Africans currently LIVING abroad’ on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/salivingabroad/Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.comThis podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:https://www.zapods.com

Have you ever felt that your voice was being stifled, or wondered what it would be like to leave everything behind just so you could tell the truth? What would drive a journalist to walk away from their homeland - not out of adventure, but because they could no longer breathe under the weight of censorship?In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Johan Allers, a man whose work on local television and radio was a familiar part of my own childhood. Johan’s career saw him reporting on some of the most important and difficult moments in our country’s history, but it was the growing pressure to toe the official line - and the inability to report freely and honestly - that eventually pushed him to leave South Africa.Interviewing Johan was a powerful reminder of just how personal the choice to relocate can be. For Johan, it wasn’t just about career ambition or curiosity about life overseas; it was fundamentally about integrity, and the need to tell real stories without interference and fear. His reflections on those final years in South Africa, the moments when he realised he could not be the kind of journalist he aspired to be, really struck a chord with me.Whether you’re thinking about moving abroad, facing similar professional crossroads, or simply interested in the stories behind South Africa’s media past, I hope you’ll find Johan’s journey as compelling and honest as I did.“I actually became for the first time, truly confronted with the realities of South Africa as it was seen [through] the eyes of the Europeans at that time.” - Johan Allers00:00 Introduction05:14 Award-winning producer09:16 Early career ambitions11:50 Being a journalist during apartheid14:24 Media manipulation in South Africa20:15 Connections to the liberation movement22:25 Meeting Kofi Annan25:14 Chance encounter with Muhammad Ali30:19 Moving to Amsterdam33:26 Travelling Europe for TV38:10 His views on the Afrikaans refugees in the U.S41:46 Longing for home44:04 The essence of SAResourcesWatch Johan’s YouTube videos, ‘AllesAfrikaans (Beyond the Borders)’: https://www.youtube.com/@JohanAllersTune in to Johan’s weekly show, ‘Pareltjes uit Amsterdam’ on Litnet: https://www.litnet.co.za/author/johan-allersFind your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.comThis podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:https://www.zapods.com