In this episode, I speak with Abré Van Wyk the host of the KarooKiwi podcast about his personal story of moving from South Africa to Hamilton, New Zealand.

He highlights the immigration process, community integration, and the realities of living abroad.

We explore his insights on setting up a business, cultural differences, and maintaining connections with South Africa.

We discuss building community and networks in New Zealand and the inspiration behind the Karookiwi podcast.

He shares some sound advice for anyone considering emigration.

Abré gives us a bit of insight into the cost of living in New Zealand versus South Africa and Australia.

He also stresses how important it is to maintain mental health and faith while abroad.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Abré’s story and podcast

04:10 - Deciding to move to New Zealand after visiting family

07:12 - The role of family and community in expatriation

08:36 - Origins and goals of the KarooKiwi podcast

10:03 - Guests and topics featured on KarooKiwi podcast

16:39 - Comparing New Zealand and Australia for emigrants

17:40 - Meeting South Africans and social integration

18:45 - Local social customs and community life

20:13 - Challenges of household help and day-to-day living

22:08 - Travel and flight times back to South Africa

23:26 - Reflections on the past year and lessons learned

25:24 - Healthcare in New Zealand: access and costs

29:14 - Tax residency and maintaining South African links

32:16 - What Aubrey would ship from South Africa today

33:42 - Local faith communities and church life in New Zealand

37:23 - Closing remarks and future collaborations

The KarooKiwi website is www.karookiwi.com. Abré is also active on LinkedIn and other social media. Contact Abré at info@karookiwi.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 episode 48, I interview Danie Brink, a South African math teacher who has navigated multiple relocations to the US.

Danie shares his journey from South Africa to the US, discussing his teaching experiences, the challenges of immigration, and the importance of education.

He also highlights his charity work, Stepping Into Grace, born out of a family tragedy, which provides prosthetic limbs to those in need in South Africa.

The conversation touches on the realities of life in the US, including the cost of living, community engagement, and the emotional aspects of leaving one's home country.

He discusses moving from being a teacher at the prestigious Pretoria Boys High to almost starting over in America.

His wife homeschools the children and he discusses his views on homeschooling as a teacher himself.

We discuss the cost of living in the US which can be manageable for teachers, especially dual-income families.

He suggests that Immigrants should consider trying life in a new country, as they can always return if needed, as they have proven.

Danie Brink: “We are where God wants us now."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:10 Danie’s Background and Journey to the U.S.

07:05 Graduate Studies and Immigration Insights

13:40 The Impact of a Tragic Accident

17:08 Establishing a Nonprofit for Prosthetics

19:10 Life in Georgia and Cultural Connections

25:28 Homeschooling Philosophy and Practices

40:03 A morning run discussion

47:22 American friendships

The charity which provides prosthetic limbs can be found at www.steppingintograce.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 Episode 47 I speak with Nichola Kühne a South African brand specialist and founder of “From Startup to Wunderbrand” podcast.

Nicholas talks about his early life in South Africa, his professional journey in branding and marketing and the adjustments he and his family have made in Norway.

The discussion touches on cultural integration, the South African identity abroad, and the importance of community.

Nicholas also reflects on the work ethic of South Africans and offers valuable advice for those considering immigration.

The conversation concludes with insights on personal growth and the joys of living in a new country.

He encourages others to embrace their strengths rather than focus on weaknesses.

Nicholas believes in the value of community and making connections in a new country.

He shares insights on the importance of integrating into the local culture.

Nicholas advises future immigrants to consider Scandinavia for its quality of life.

He expresses gratitude for his journey and the opportunities it has provided.

Nicholas Kühne: “Norway is a play-play land."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:41 Nicholas's Background and Early Life

05:35 Career Path and Experiences in Africa

08:24 Emigration to Malaysia and Its Challenges

11:00 Transition to Norway and Cultural Adjustments

13:42 Social Dynamics and Community in Norway

16:26 Navigating Identity as an Expat

19:05 Reflections on South African Heritage

21:40 Business Ventures and Podcasting Journey

24:32 Advice for New Immigrants

30:50 Building Brands for Emerging Markets

38:01 Focusing on Strengths Over Weaknesses

41:38 The South African Work Ethic Abroad

48:24 Navigating Business and Tax in Norway

54:35 Embracing Life in Norway

Nicholas’ podcast is available on all platforms as From Startup to Wunderbrand. His website is: https://www.kuhne.no/

Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com