The Relocated South African

• The importance of proper emigration planning with Andrew Rissik, Group International Director at Sable International-E35

  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 [email protected]

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• From working on top secret military projects for South Africa in Russia to living in Canada with Kobus De Villiers - E34

  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 [email protected]

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• After 20 plus years in the UK the family is heading back to SA with Wolf Dette – E33

  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 [email protected]

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• Leaving behind everything that you know for a better future for your children with Hettie Meyer-E32

  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 [email protected]

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• The emotional journey of a mother with two adult children overseas with René Koekemoer-E31

  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 [email protected]

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