The Relocated South African

Jan Hugo
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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.

  1. 2D AGO

    From South Africa to New Zealand with Abré Van Wyk (KarooKiwi) -Ep 49

    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

    38 min

  2. FEB 9

    Navigating tragedy and multiple relocations to the US with Danie Brink-Ep 48

    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

    54 min

  3. FEB 2

    Navigating emerging markets to living in Norway with Nicholas Kühne-Ep 47

    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

    1h 2m

  4. JAN 26

    Three times emigrant to successful travel blogger with Reeva Cutting-Ep 46

    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." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Immigration and Blogging 03:02 Reeva's Immigration Journey 05:49 Challenges of Moving with Family 08:59 Navigating Work and Mental Health 11:53 Financial Considerations for Immigrants 14:50 Cultural Adjustments and Support Systems 17:48 Life in Australia vs. South Africa 20:37 Reflections on Expat Life 23:54 Advice for Prospective Immigrants Reeva´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

    30 min

  5. JAN 19

    From Athlone to Sweden a journey of growth with Wendy Carlsson-Ep45

    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,"  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:49 Wendy's Background and Early Life 11:51 Life in Sweden: A New Beginning 13:06 Starting a Business in Sweden 15:05 Adapting to Swedish Winters 17:11 Cultural Differences and Food 20:01 Reflections on South Africa 23:26 Cost of Living and Community 28:31 Advice for Young South Africans 33:15 Conclusion and Future Aspirations Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com

    33 min

  6. JAN 12

    Own emigration journey to business opportunity with Marlene Prentice-E44

    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

    36 min

  7. JAN 5

    Connecting Saffas via The Lekker Network with Nic Latouf-Ep 43

    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." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Relocated South African Podcast 01:10 Nic Latouf: Background and Early Ventures 03:01 The Birth of the Lekker Network 08:42 Building a Global Community of South Africans 12:59 The Power of the South African Diaspora 16:14 Connecting Opportunities: Real Stories of Impact 18:54 Future Plans and the Impact of the Lekker Network 30:37 Maintaining Independence and Future Investments 33:12 The Power of Positivity in the Diaspora 36:22 Navigating Family Dynamics and Immigration Challenges 42:25 Inclusivity in Business Networks 46:56 Celebrating South African Success Stories 53:03 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 56:59 Balancing Work and Family Life Nic 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

    56 min

  8. 12/29/2025

    Moving from South Africa to start a business in Dubai with Kirsty Jones-Ep 42

    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!" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Relocated South African Show 01:04 Kirsty Jones: Journey from South Africa to Dubai 02:13 Why Choose the UAE? Safety and Stability 03:16 Starting a Business in Dubai: Kirsty's Experience 05:14 The Need for Transparency in Advisory Services 06:56 Navigating Business Setup in the UAE 08:14 Common Business Ventures for South Africans 09:47 Supporting South Africans in Job Searches 11:07 Overcoming Red Tape in the UAE 12:19 Cultural Dynamics: Women in Business 15:46 Challenges of Isolation in a New Country 17:12 Building Community Among Expats 18:51 The Temporary Nature of Life in Dubai 19:07 Connecting People and Networking 20:02 Finding Accommodation in Dubai 20:30 Coping with the UAE's Climate 24:41 Cost of Living: Balancing Salaries and Expenses 28:30 Understanding Alcohol Regulations in the UAE 29:49 Communication Challenges: WhatsApp and VPNs 33:04 Advice for Future Expats 34:34 Final Thoughts on Relocating to the UAE Contact Kirsty at www.federatedadvisory.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

    33 min
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About

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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