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The Relocated South African | Emigration stories

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Rating
★★★★★
5
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This podcast has
96 episodes
Language
English
Date created
2025/03/26
Latest episode
2026/10/19
Average duration
47 min.
Release period
5 days

Description

The show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. Join host Jan Hugo as he shares authentic emigration stories from South Africans who've taken the leap. You'll hear about what drove their decision to leave, the mistakes they made, and how they've built new lives abroad. We'll explore everything from the emotional reality of leaving friends and family behind, to the challenges of emigrating to a foreign country. Relocating isn't always simple, but this show will provide you with the certainty, practical information and support to make the whole process easier.

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Check latest episodes from The Relocated South African | Emigration stories podcast


From Cape Town to the UK: Building Two Businesses and a Life of Purpose-Ep 94 with Sharon Constançon
2026/10/19
Sharon Constançon left South Africa after a hijacking changed the way she viewed her future. Originally from Cape Town, Sharon had already built a successful career and business in South Africa when the security incident made her ask a simple question: if she couldn't safely travel two miles between her office and home, why was she living there? She moved to the UK, where she has now spent more than two decades. Along the way she built a career with the South African Chamber of Commerce and went on to build not one, but two very different businesses. Today Sharon runs Valufin, a foreign exchange and risk management business helping importers and exporters manage currency exposure, and Genius Boards, where she works with boards, CEOs and senior management on governance, board effectiveness and the dynamics that determine how organisations actually work. But this conversation goes well beyond business. We talk about growing up in South Africa, educating herself after being discouraged from pursuing further education, leaving South Africa, the importance of having family already in the UK, relationships and emigration, the realities of integrating into British life, why some South Africans struggle with being pigeonholed professionally, and what she misses most about home. Sharon also shares her thoughts on the cost of living in the UK, the price of a £6.50 cappuccino, safety in South Africa, and whether she could ever see herself moving back permanently. Her answer is revealing: she doesn't regret leaving, but she hasn't stopped being South African either. Quote of the episode: “Nothing is on a plate. Nothing is given to you on a plate.” ______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:11 – Welcome and introduction 01:17 – Winning the Away Game feature 02:49 – Growing up in Cape Town and Johannesburg 04:49 – Education, mobility and the UK connection 06:03 – The security incident that changed everything 07:57 – Returning to South Africa after ten years 09:03 – Having family already in the UK 11:15 – Helping South Africans through the Chamber 12:45 – Why some South Africans return to Cape Town 15:14 – Property and financial ties to South Africa 16:28 – Relationships and the reality of emigration 18:59 – Finding your South African community abroad 20:30 – Being South African in the UK 21:09 – Building two very different businesses 24:01 – Running a global team 25:45 – Governance and working with South Africa 27:21 – UK and South African governance 29:34 – Board accountability 31:45 – South Africans and the work ethic 34:19 – What Sharon misses from South Africa 36:48 – South African or British? 37:30 – The cost of living in the UK 39:33 – The £6.50 cappuccino 40:55 – Safety and returning to South Africa 42:55 – Would she do it again? 44:38 – How to connect with Sharon 44:58 – Closing thoughts ______________________________________________________________ Connect with Sharon Constançon: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sharonconstancon The Relocated South African https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com/
From Johannesburg to Canada: A Life at Sea, Starting Again-EP 93 with Dale Lyell
2026/10/12
Dale Lyell grew up in Johannesburg, joined the Safmarine Merchant Navy after matric and spent years travelling the world on container ships, bulk carriers and even the QE2. In 1998, Dale and his South African wife left South Africa for Canada. They arrived with no job waiting, very little support and no guarantee that things would work out. What followed was a fascinating journey of starting again, finding community, building a new career and eventually establishing a successful technology business. Dale talks openly about why he left South Africa, the reality of those early years, adapting to Canada, raising a son with South African roots and the safety mindset that many South Africans carry with them long after they leave. _______________________________________________________________ Sable International For over 30 years, Sable International has helped South Africans navigate international relocation, including visas, second passports, tax, wealth planning, foreign exchange and studying abroad. _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:13 — Welcome to Dale in Ontario, Canada 01:35 — Growing up in Johannesburg and joining Safmarine 02:51 — Life on container ships and the QE2 04:58 — Dale's Canadian connection 06:43 — Why he left South Africa in 1998 08:47 — Crime, safety and quality of life 10:10 — Arriving in Canada with no job 11:54 — Starting again without a support network 13:40 — Finding community through martial arts 16:23 — Integrating into Canadian society 18:36 — Finding work and building a career 20:47 — Dale's technology business 22:01 — From a chocolate factory to technology 24:45 — Doing business in Canada 25:46 — Healthcare in Canada 28:06 — Raising a son with South African roots 30:35 — Family left behind in South Africa 32:10 — Staying connected to home 34:02 — Getting used to safety in Canada 35:11 — The difference in everyday life 36:43 — Dale's love of travel 38:53 — Advice for South Africans considering emigration 42:28 — What he would do differently 43:24 — Expectations and the five-year cycle 45:27 — Never give up 45:33 — Canada vs South Africa 47:10 — Final thoughts The Relocated South African The show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com/podcast/ If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another South African living abroad.
From Springs to Taiwan to London: Why South Africa Is Calling Again -Ep 92 with Quinton Pullinge
2026/10/05
Quinton Pullinger’s story is anything but a straight line. He grew up in Springs, South Africa, trained as a goldsmith, and then took an unexpected leap to Taiwan after seeing an advert to teach English. What he thought would be a one-year adventure became nearly nine years. In Taiwan he learned Mandarin, built a career in the bicycle industry, travelled extensively and learned how to adapt to a completely different culture. He eventually moved into senior roles, including an eight-and-a-half-year journey with Brompton, before another opportunity took him to the UK in 2008. Now, after 18 years in Britain, Quinton is asking a question many long-term South African expats eventually face: could South Africa become home again? We talk about: • Leaving South Africa with no long-term plan• Arriving alone in Taiwan and surviving the first six months• Learning Mandarin and adapting to a new culture• Why negative expat thinking can hold people back• Building an international career by saying “yes” to opportunities• His journey through the bicycle industry and Brompton• Starting again in the UK with no contacts• Raising a family abroad and how that changes your risk profile• The NHS and the UK cost of living• Why Cape Town would be his choice if he returned to South Africa• Whether a part-time “swallow” lifestyle could work• His advice to his younger self: be more adventurous and take more risks _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction01:27 Weybridge and life near London02:41 Growing up in Springs06:00 The unexpected move to Taiwan07:14 Learning Mandarin and surviving the first six months09:16 Working and living in Taiwan13:26 Returning to South Africa — and leaving again15:10 Building a career in the bicycle industry16:06 Why he eventually left Taiwan18:13 Getting the opportunity to move to the UK20:12 Meeting his wife and starting a family21:08 Moving abroad alone22:26 The danger of negative expat thinking25:32 Values, friendships and identity abroad26:08 A career built without a plan29:44 Starting over in the UK31:08 The mindset needed to make emigration work33:49 Could South Africa become home again?36:14 Why Cape Town would be his choice37:33 Could a part-time return work?39:33 South Africa, France or the UK?40:14 The NHS and healthcare42:32 The UK cost of living44:08 What would he do differently?46:21 How family changes your risk profile47:17 Advice to his younger self48:56 Staying true to your values50:05 Final thoughts Connect with The Relocated South African: www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com
From South Africa to Chile: Love, Language and a New Life-Ep 91 with Wynand Kuhn
2026/09/28
Wynand Kuhn's move to Chile was never part of a grand plan. Born and raised in Upington, Wynand was working in the restaurant industry in Durban when his brother-in-law invited him to Chile in 2005 to help set up a South African-themed restaurant. He arrived knowing almost no Spanish. Then he met the woman who would become his wife — and decided to stay. More than 20 years later, Wynand lives with his wife and three sons near Santiago and has built an international career in business and renewable energy. In this episode, Wynand talks about arriving in Chile, learning Spanish without formal classes, building a career from English teacher to senior executive, returning to South Africa in 2011 and eventually making his way back to Chile. We discuss life in Chile compared with South Africa, safety, healthcare, education, cost of living, food and wine, raising children between two cultures, and why Chile could be an option for South Africans considering a less conventional destination. Wynand also talks about the Chilean South African Chamber of Commerce, his possible future move to the United States, and whether South Africa could ever be home again. SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most to you – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction01:15 Growing up in Upington02:50 How Wynand ended up in Chile05:56 Meeting his wife06:24 Learning Spanish without classes07:25 Returning to South Africa in 201108:09 Raising three boys09:03 The challenges of starting out10:16 Building a career in Chile12:41 From supermarket worker to general manager14:31 Returning to South Africa16:00 Finding opportunities through Spanish18:00 Why Chile became home again23:49 Considering another move25:16 Chilean residency and citizenship25:40 The possibility of moving to the USA26:46 The Chilean South African Chamber of Commerce28:19 Living outside Santiago29:19 Safety and crime in Chile32:27 Healthcare and schooling33:57 Minimum wages and cost of living34:46 The cappuccino index36:12 Chilean food and seafood37:53 Chilean wine38:54 Staying connected with family in South Africa40:32 Could Chile work for South Africans?42:52 Tax in Chile44:07 Would Wynand ever return to South Africa?46:01 His advice to young South Africans47:20 Final thoughts CONNECT WITH WYNAND Wynand Kuhn is active on LinkedIn. You can connect with him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wynand-kuhn/ THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The podcast for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com If Wynand's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
South Africa, UK, Singapore... And Back to Cape Town-EP 90 with Tracey Shearer
2026/09/21
Tracey Shearer left South Africa in 2003 with an Irish passport, a printer and no real plan beyond seeing what life abroad had to offer. What followed was a 13-year journey through the UK and Singapore before eventually returning to Cape Town. Tracey grew up on Johannesburg's East Rand and spent 13 years running a design agency with her sister before deciding it was time to leave. In London, her original entrepreneurial plans didn't work out, and she eventually found her way into maritime recruitment, a career she has now been in for around 20 years. Singapore became a major part of her life. She ran a recruitment company there for seven years, built an international network and experienced a very different way of living. Eventually, however, her heart was pulling her back to South Africa. In this episode, Tracey talks honestly about leaving South Africa, the realities of starting again overseas, the cost of living in London, Singapore's safety and efficiency, healthcare, building an international career, and why she ultimately chose Cape Town. We also discuss the role of family, the idea that the grass is always greener somewhere else, and how technology has made it possible for Tracey to continue recruiting internationally while living in South Africa. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:01 Introduction 01:15 Growing up in Johannesburg 02:36 Leaving South Africa in 2003 03:44 Arriving in London with a printer 04:17 Trying entrepreneurship in the UK 05:16 Finding maritime recruitment 06:13 Discovering the maritime industry 10:52 The cost of living in London 12:24 Adjusting to life overseas 13:05 Moving from London to Singapore 21:58 Healthcare in London and Singapore 23:27 Why Singapore works so well 29:47 Building a recruitment company in Singapore 30:19 Returning to South Africa 30:52 Working internationally from Cape Town 32:10 Why family pulled her home 32:47 Is the grass really greener? 33:15 Choosing Cape Town 34:00 Building a life back in South Africa CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The Relocated South African is the show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen, subscribe and explore more stories from South Africans around the world. If Tracey's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
From Durban to Budapest: A South African Finding Home in Hungary-Ep 88 with Connor Jackson
2026/09/14
Connor Jackson was born in Durban, spent much of his childhood in Tanzania, returned to South Africa, and then unexpectedly found himself building a life in Hungary. At 18, Connor went to Hungary on a Rotary exchange programme. He didn't choose Hungary as his first option, but what began as a one-year adventure became a life-changing experience. He returned to South Africa after the exchange, started studying at Stellenbosch University, but soon realised that he wanted to return to Hungary. He eventually moved back to Budapest, restarted his degree, learned Hungarian and began building a career there. In this episode, Connor talks about: Growing up in Tanzania and living in an expat mining community Arriving in Hungary with virtually no Hungarian The challenge of learning one of Europe's most difficult languages Returning to South Africa and discovering that he had changed Leaving Stellenbosch and moving back to Budapest Studying international relations and starting his career in Hungary Finding community through Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and rugby What life in Budapest is really like Safety, public transport and the cost of living Working for Hungarian companies The challenges of Hungarian immigration and bureaucracy Being forced to leave Hungary after a visa problem How a lawyer helped him return Why he recently became a Hungarian citizen Travelling and building a life across Europe Connor also explains why putting yourself out there is so important when you move abroad, and why joining a sports club or other community can be one of the best ways to make friends and build a new life. And despite becoming Hungarian, Connor says you never stop being South African. ______________________________________________________________ SUPPORTED BY SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:11 Welcome from Budapest01:02 Growing up in Tanzania03:43 Life in a Tanzanian gold-mining community07:20 How Connor ended up in Hungary09:08 Living with Hungarian host families10:59 Arriving in Hungary with no Hungarian13:35 Learning the Hungarian language14:51 Returning to South Africa16:28 Leaving Stellenbosch for Budapest18:23 Studying and working in Hungary19:12 Finding community through martial arts21:35 Living in Hungary during COVID23:44 Building a social life in Budapest24:40 What Connor loves about Budapest27:52 Cost of living in Hungary30:50 Working in Budapest32:42 Hungarian immigration and bureaucracy35:23 Advice for South Africans considering Hungary36:55 Becoming a Hungarian citizen38:25 Travelling around Europe40:00 Committing to your new life abroad41:28 Braai, biltong and staying South African CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen to The Relocated South African on Spotify, YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If Connor's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
From Green Card Lottery to HR Director: Starting Again in America-Ep 87 With Andreas Pyper
2026/09/07
Andreas Pyper's journey to America began almost by accident. In 1997, he and a group of friends entered the US Green Card Lottery as a joke. His wife Amanda won. A few years later, they packed up their lives in South Africa and moved to California. What followed was anything but easy. Andreas arrived in America as an experienced HR manager, but found himself starting again at the bottom. His first job was as an HR filing clerk. He had no US credit history, no professional network and no company waiting to welcome him. His wife also had to start over, completing the requirements to become licensed as a therapist in California. The first 18 months tested their family and their marriage. They experienced financial pressure, loneliness and uncertainty. Later, they lost their home during the 2008 financial crisis and had to rebuild again. But Andreas kept going. Today, 26 years after moving to the United States, he is a Human Resources Director for a large county organisation in California. He shares the practical lessons he learned along the way, from building a US credit history and choosing the right employer to understanding pensions, healthcare and the importance of accepting that you may have to take a few steps backwards before moving forward. Andreas also has some strong advice for South Africans considering America: build relationships with Americans, don't expect your South African career success to transfer immediately, be prepared to work your way up, and don't underestimate the importance of having a strong marriage and family partnership. This is an honest conversation about immigration, resilience, humility, career rebuilding, marriage and making a new life work. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey:https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:17 Welcome and Andreas' life in California02:32 Growing up in Durban and Cape Town07:44 His political upbringing09:13 University and national service10:31 Working in HR and the Green Card Lottery11:16 How his wife won the Green Card Lottery13:16 Discovering California16:07 His father's life after politics17:10 How the Green Card process worked19:19 Leaving family behind21:02 Starting again in America24:29 Building a US credit history28:25 His wife's professional re-licensing29:30 The difficult first 18 months35:29 Immigration and marriage37:25 Losing their home during the financial crisis42:24 Building their lives again42:41 The importance of government jobs and pensions45:10 Healthcare in America47:02 The biggest mistakes South Africans make49:25 Advice for anyone considering emigrating52:45 The one thing he would have done differently CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.relocatedsouthafrican.com If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another South African considering life abroad.
22 Years in Japan: Why This South African Still Wants to Go Home-Ep 87 with James WhelanEp
2026/09/03
James Whelan was born and raised in Johannesburg before moving to London in 1998. Five years later, after meeting his Japanese partner, he moved to Japan for what was supposed to be one year. More than two decades later, he's still there. James is now married, has three children, works in recruitment and has permanent residency in Japan. But despite building a successful life in Tokyo, he still feels a powerful connection to South Africa and says that if circumstances allowed it, he would move back home tomorrow. In this episode, James shares the reality of life in Japan as a South African. We talk about moving from Johannesburg to London and then Japan, the culture shock of arriving in Japan, living there without fluent Japanese, finding work, Japanese working culture, raising children in Tokyo, safety, healthcare, the cost of living, public transport, Japanese food and what it feels like to remain a foreigner after more than 20 years. We also explore whether Japan has really become home for James, his connection to South Africa and his thoughts about eventually returning. _______________________________________________________________ SABLE INTERNATIONAL For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most: building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction00:23 Growing up in Johannesburg03:05 Moving to London03:11 From London to Japan05:00 Learning Japanese08:43 Culture shock11:32 Settling into Japan13:00 Permanent residency14:46 His children and South Africa16:23 Working in Japan18:31 Visas and red tape20:23 Japanese work culture24:02 Life in Tokyo25:43 Safety in Japan28:14 Food and adapting to Japanese cuisine31:19 Healthcare33:03 Cost of living35:24 Public transport and cars37:16 Family and leisure40:14 Is Japan home?42:52 What James would tell his younger self45:01 Final thoughts CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN The Relocated South African is the show for navigating emigration from South Africa for a better future. www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com Listen, subscribe and explore more stories from South Africans around the world. If James's story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
27 Years in America: Why He's Building a Base Back in South Africa-Ep 86 with Andries Coetzee
2026/08/31
Andries Coetzee left South Africa for the United States in 1999 to do a PhD. His plan was simple: complete his studies and return home. Instead, 27 years later, he is still in America. After completing his PhD at the University of Massachusetts, Andries joined the University of Michigan, where he has built a successful academic career. What began as a temporary move became a life in the United States. But his connection to South Africa never disappeared. After becoming an American citizen, Andries found that his South African identity became more important to him. His research shifted towards South Africa and Africa, and regular visits home gradually strengthened his desire to maintain a deeper connection with the country he left behind. A powerful experience during a University of Michigan orchestra trip to Soweto finally convinced him that he wanted a second base in South Africa. He has now bought a property in the Stellenbosch area and is considering spending much more of his time there after retirement. In this episode we discuss leaving South Africa, adapting to American academic life, the differences between South African and American universities, life in Ann Arbor, the cost of living and healthcare, South African identity abroad, and what it means to be at home in two countries. We also talk about Andries' optimism about Africa's future and why he believes more South African and African students should consider postgraduate study in the United States. Most importantly, this is a conversation about something many emigrants eventually discover: you can build a successful life somewhere else without losing your connection to where you came from. "As an expat, you're at home in two places, but not really fully at home in one." _____________________________________________________________ For over 30 years, Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Why Andries went to America in 199903:04 – Growing up in rural Limpopo04:08 – Adjusting to the American university system08:37 – From PhD student to professor at Michigan11:00 – Why he didn't return to South Africa14:48 – Family, loss and building a life in America18:53 – The South African "soft landing"20:32 – Why Africa became important again24:42 – His optimism about Africa's future27:11 – Why he's considering a base in South Africa31:02 – The Soweto experience that changed his thinking34:06 – Buying a property in Stellenbosch34:41 – Could he eventually return permanently?38:07 – Retirement, money and exchange rates40:33 – Healthcare in America and South Africa43:43 – Afrikaans, culture and identity46:57 – Being at home in two countries48:38 – Advice for students considering America CONNECT WITH ANDRIES COETZEE University of MichiganEmail: [email protected] Andries also offers workshops and guidance to African students interested in studying in the United States. CONNECT WITH THE RELOCATED SOUTH AFRICAN www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com The Relocated South African – available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Andries' story resonated with you, please share this episode with another South African living abroad.
From Johannesburg to Australia: Why Olaf Duve Chose to Start Again-EP 86
2026/08/27
Olaf Duve has lived in four countries, built an international career and ultimately settled in Sydney with his wife and three children. Growing up in Johannesburg, Olaf left South Africa at 18 to study in Germany before spending eight years in the UK. After a decade in Europe, he returned to South Africa to join his family's logistics business, eventually helping grow and sell the company. Then, with three young children, a casual conversation over a braai planted the idea of Australia. Olaf had never even visited Australia. He booked a flight, spent a week interviewing for jobs and, three months later, moved his family to Sydney. Nearly ten years later, Australia is home. In this conversation, Olaf talks honestly about the realities of moving countries with a young family, why the first two years can be the hardest, the challenges of adapting to Australian working culture, the cost of living, family left behind in South Africa, and why South Africans shouldn't automatically assume that emigration is the right answer. We also discuss why Australia feels surprisingly familiar to South Africans, the importance of integrating into your new country, and what Olaf would tell someone considering making the move today. His advice is refreshingly balanced: don't leave simply because everyone else is leaving. Make sure the move is right for your family and go in with your eyes wide open. "Just be grateful and don't get so stressed... appreciate the decision you've made and enjoy the benefits of where you are." ______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Introducing Olaf Duve 00:41 – Growing up in Johannesburg 01:38 – Having a German passport 02:26 – Moving to Germany and then the UK 05:29 – Why he eventually returned to South Africa 06:00 – Starting his career in logistics 08:37 – The conversation that sparked the move to Australia 09:30 – Moving to Australia with three young children 11:00 – Australia's visa and skills requirements 12:05 – The first two years with a family 14:24 – Why Australia feels familiar to South Africans 17:15 – The South African community in Australia 20:48 – The cost of living in Australia 25:33 – Deciding that Australia was home 28:00 – The challenge of ageing parents back in South Africa 31:02 – Australian versus South African working culture 36:38 – Will he ever return to South Africa? 39:13 – The advice he'd give his younger self 40:37 – Should young families emigrate? Connect with Olaf Duve LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaf-duve-889893109/ Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ The Relocated South African — available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Olaf's story resonated with you, share this episode with someone considering a move to Australia—or someone trying to decide whether emigration is right for their family.
From Johannesburg to America: Taking Americans to Play Golf in South Africa-Ep 84 with Murray Collier
2026/08/24
When Murray Collier left South Africa for the United States, the plan was simple: gain some international experience and eventually decide what came next. Reality turned out to be very different. Despite a strong career in South Africa, Murray spent 18 months searching for work after arriving in Chicago. It was a lonely and financially difficult period that tested both him and his wife. From sharing a tiny studio apartment with Airbnb guests to eventually building a successful corporate career, his story is one of resilience, determination and starting again from scratch. Today, Murray has combined his passion for golf with his love for South Africa by founding South Africa Golf Tours, introducing American golfers to the country's world-class golf courses, spectacular wildlife, incredible food and wine, and unforgettable hospitality. In this episode, we discuss the realities of emigrating to the United States, overcoming loneliness, adapting to American life, raising a family abroad, and why South Africans continue to make an impact wherever they go. We also explore why South Africa remains one of the world's greatest golf and safari destinations—and why so many American visitors return home with a completely different view of the country. It's an inspiring conversation about perseverance, identity and discovering that sometimes the best way to appreciate where you come from is to see it through someone else's eyes. "I'm South African first... I get to stand with a foot on each continent." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introducing Murray Collier 01:08 – Growing up in Johannesburg and studying at Stellenbosch 02:30 – Moving to Chicago 05:15 – Eighteen months without finding a job 08:00 – Loneliness and adapting to life in America 10:30 – Chicago winters and moving to Connecticut 12:10 – Financial struggles and renting out their apartment 18:10 – The South African community in the US 21:20 – Why he started South Africa Golf Tours 24:00 – Selling South Africa to American travellers 27:10 – Creating luxury golf and safari experiences 35:30 – Leopard Creek, Rovos Rail and Gary Player 39:10 – Building relationships with American golf clubs 41:20 – Americans' biggest misconception about South Africa 43:10 – Seeing South Africa through American eyes 46:30 – Would he ever move back? 48:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the USA Connect with Murray Collier 🌍 Website: www.southafricagolftours.com 💼 LinkedIn: Murray Collier 📸 Instagram / X: @SouthAfricaGolfTours Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 Website www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Murray's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a move to the United States—or anyone passionate about golf, travel and showcasing the very best of South Africa.
From South Africa to Malta: Finding Opportunity on a Mediterranean Island
2026/08/20
When Merle-Louise first arrived in Malta, she wanted to get straight back on the plane. Fifteen years later, she can't imagine calling anywhere else home. After building a successful career in hospitality, event management and running her own conference business in South Africa, Merle-Louise faced difficult business challenges that ultimately led her to consider a new chapter overseas. What began as a reluctant move has become a passionate mission to help other South Africans discover opportunities on one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Today, through MaltaLifestyle.com and the South African Family & Friends in Malta community, she assists South Africans looking to relocate, study, work or retire in Malta, while helping them navigate the practical and emotional realities of starting over. In this episode, we explore why Malta has become an increasingly attractive destination for South Africans, its thriving financial services, gaming, aviation and tourism industries, residency options, healthcare, education, property, safety and quality of life. We also discuss one of the biggest challenges of emigration—making the decision itself. Merle-Louise shares practical advice on preparing for a move, avoiding common mistakes, embracing change, and why success abroad begins long before you board the plane. Whether you're actively considering emigration or simply curious about life in the Mediterranean, this conversation is packed with practical insights and honest advice. "Success has to be intentional. We can't wait for somebody else to make up their mind for us." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ TIMESTAMPS 00:06 – Introducing Merle-Louise and life in Malta 02:13 – Growing up in South Africa and building an events business 04:50 – Why she left South Africa 06:18 – First impressions of Malta 07:55 – Flying to Malta and its location in Europe 10:07 – Tourism, history and why Malta is unique 11:38 – Why Malta became home 15:10 – The importance of integrating into your new country 17:13 – Preparing properly before emigrating 18:17 – Should you leave a back door open? 20:32 – What South Africans struggle with most overseas 22:04 – Is Malta still a good option? 25:50 – Residency, citizenship and permanent residence 28:40 – Cost of living, rentals and healthcare 30:25 – What she misses about South Africa 32:25 – Helping young South Africans build international careers 35:34 – The emotional price of emigration 39:07 – Advice for anyone considering a move abroad 41:36 – Would she ever return to South Africa? Connect with Merle-Louise 🌍 Website: www.maltalifestyle.com Facebook: South African Family & Friends in Malta (SAFF Malta) Connect with The Relocated South African 🌍 Website:www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Merle-Louise's story inspired you, please share this episode with someone considering a move abroad—or anyone curious about life in Malta, one of Europe's hidden gems.
From Dubai Back to South Africa: Why This Doctor Came Home-Ep 82 with Casper Joubert
2026/08/17
Most South African doctors leave. Dr. Casper Joubert did the opposite. After qualifying at Stellenbosch University, Casper and his wife—also a doctor—built successful medical careers in Dubai before moving to Mauritius. Like many South African professionals, they embraced the opportunities that came with working overseas. But after more than a decade abroad, they made a surprising decision. They came home. Today, Casper is completing his specialist training in Occupational Medicine at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town, where he believes South Africa still offers some of the best medical training and greatest opportunities to make a meaningful difference. In this conversation we discuss life as a doctor in Dubai, practicing medicine in Mauritius, the realities of working in different healthcare systems, why South African doctors are so highly regarded around the world, and the emotional journey of returning home after more than ten years abroad. Most importantly, Casper explains why he believes young South African professionals should travel the world—not to run away from South Africa, but to broaden their horizons before deciding where they truly belong. It's an honest, balanced conversation about career, purpose, perspective and what "coming home" really means. "If you've got the opportunity to go, go—but run towards something, not away from something." ___________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy ______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:10 – Introducing Dr. Casper Joubert 01:20 – Growing up and studying medicine at Stellenbosch 02:30 – Why he left South Africa for Dubai 05:30 – Building a medical career in the Middle East 09:10 – Living and working in Dubai 13:20 – Cost of living and life as an expat doctor 19:30 – Moving to Mauritius 23:20 – Living through COVID in Mauritius 25:20 – Why the family returned to South Africa 27:45 – What Occupational Medicine actually is 29:20 – South African doctors on the world stage 33:20 – Advice for young doctors considering emigration 36:20 – Readjusting to life back in South Africa Contact Casper LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casper-joubert-a45836ab/ The Relocated South African 🌍 Website www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Casper's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a career overseas—or someone wondering whether coming home is still an option.
From Cape Town to the Netherlands: Taking a Leap into a New Life-Ep 81 with Wendy Minnie
2026/08/13
What happens when opportunity knocks later in life? Do you stay where you're comfortable—or do you take the leap? For Wendy Minnie and her family, the answer was clear. After successful careers in South Africa, Wendy and her husband spent more than a year researching life in the Netherlands before making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. With a teenage son, adult daughters, and decades of life already established in South Africa, this wasn't a decision made lightly. Today, Wendy works for Heineken in the Netherlands, where she has embraced a truly global career while discovering the realities of learning a new culture, adapting to Dutch life, and building a future in Europe. In this episode, we talk about relocating as an established professional, raising teenagers abroad, navigating the Dutch education system, buying a home, work-life balance, cost of living, learning Dutch, and why South Africans have earned a reputation for being some of the hardest-working people in the world. This is an honest conversation about courage, preparation, family, and proving that it's never too late to start a new chapter. "If you've got the opportunity and there's a part of you that's curious to know what life could be like somewhere else, take the jump. And if it doesn't work out, you can always go home." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years, Sable International has helped South Africans navigate visas, immigration, citizenship, foreign exchange and international financial planning. Whether you're planning your move abroad or already living overseas, Sable International has the expertise to help make your journey easier. Find out more:https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ Timestamps 00:10 – Introducing Wendy Minnie 00:54 – Growing up in Cape Town and Pretoria 02:00 – Why the family chose the Netherlands 03:30 – Joining Heineken after Distell 05:00 – Schooling, learning Dutch and settling in 07:30 – Language, culture and everyday life 08:30 – Visas, relocation and Dutch bureaucracy 11:20 – Choosing where to live in the Netherlands 12:45 – Working for a global company 14:20 – Do South Africans work harder? 16:00 – Why they decided to emigrate 18:20 – Family, adult children and opportunity 19:10 – Residency and Dutch citizenship 20:30 – The emotional first six months 25:00 – Cycling, commuting and Dutch life 26:15 – Cost of living in the Netherlands 31:15 – Housing and buying a home 33:20 – What Wendy misses most about South Africa 36:20 – Would she do anything differently? 38:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the move 🌍 Website:www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com 🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Wendy's journey resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a move abroad. Your support helps more South Africans around the world discover stories, insights and practical advice from people who have already taken the leap.
From Johannesburg to Ireland: Building Community Far From Home-Ep 80 with Berilyn Teeling
2026/08/10
When Berilyn Teeling moved from South Africa to Ireland, she wasn't just looking for a better life—she ended up creating one of Ireland's largest celebrations of South African culture. After growing up in Johannesburg, spending a year as an exchange student in Paraguay and later marrying into an Irish family, Berilyn and her husband made the bold decision to relocate to Ireland with their young son and just three suitcases. Finding work during a recession wasn't easy, but through determination, resilience and a willingness to start again, they built a new life in County Wicklow. Today, Berilyn is best known as the founder of The South African Gathering—an annual event that brings together more than 1,500 South Africans from across Ireland to celebrate their heritage, reconnect with old friends and support South African businesses. In this episode we discuss the realities of starting over, raising children abroad, adapting to Irish life, finding work during difficult times, the cost of living, healthcare, and why maintaining your South African identity can be just as important as integrating into your new country. It's an uplifting conversation about community, belonging and proving that home isn't always a place—sometimes it's the people you bring together. "I wanted everyone to come out, have a good day, and just celebrate being South African for a day." _______________________________________________________________ For over 30 years Sable International has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders. Find out how Sable International can support your journey: https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy _______________________________________________________________ Time stamps 00:06 – Introducing Berilyn Teeling 00:57 – Growing up in Johannesburg 02:54 – Marriage, Ireland and taking the leap abroad 05:42 – Starting over with three suitcases 10:01 – Why Wicklow became home 11:51 – Finding work during Ireland's recession 16:27 – Adjusting to Irish weather and culture 19:16 – The story behind The South African Gathering 22:42 – From 200 people to more than 1,500 attendees 24:45 – Supporting South African businesses in Ireland 27:19 – Feeling South African while building a life abroad 28:42 – Family, parents and living across continents 34:40 – What makes Ireland such a great place to live 37:26 – The cost of living in Ireland 40:06 – Healthcare and everyday life 41:22 – Any regrets? 42:11 – Advice for South Africans considering Ireland 🇿🇦 South African Gathering Facebook: South African Gathering Ireland Website: https://www.sagathering.ie/ Podcast: Website:⁠www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com The Relocated South African – available on Spotify and all major podcast platforms. If Berilyn's story inspired you, please share this episode with someone considering a move to Ireland—or someone who simply wants to stay connected to their South African roots.

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5 out of 5
1 reviews
★★★★★
Jono McHugh 2026/07/10
Great podcast
Really enjoy hearing the stories from fellow South Africans. Good stuff.
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