A recent survey, shared across more than a staggering 300 South African online expatriate social groups worldwide, provides a fascinating look into the elements that keep the expat community tethered to their roots.

An interesting aspect is the sheer number of platforms and groups catering to South African expats, demonstrating the widespread presence of South Africans across the globe. There is clearly a need for to remain connected with fellow South African communities. So, what is it that still connects us?

Backing the Boks

Rugby holds a special place in the hearts of South Africans. While expats may live abroad, it seems that their gees stays at home. Not only local South Africans have been on the edge of their seats with the nail-biting matches played by the Springboks in this 2023 Rugby World Cup.

47% of respondents expressed an unwavering belief that the Boks will play in the final and win the Rugby World Cup. 32% were confident that South Africa would at least reach the finals. South African expats still share a bond with our sporting culture and heritage – truly, Stronger Together.

Expat Holiday Guide to SA

The natural beauty South Africa has to offer is not lost on South Africans abroad, still being a top destination among SA expats alongside other travellers from around the world. 

With the holidays around the corner, 37% of participants expressed a preference for Cape Town as their vacation spot. The Kruger National Park is second with 17%, followed by the Drakensberg (11%) and the Natal Coast (9%).

The Flavours of Home (The Homely Flavours)?

“Beef or chicken”? The survey asked expats to name the dish they most regret leaving behind, with their choices ranging from malva pudding all the way to bunny chow and koeksisters.

Of course, South African cuisine is known for unique and savoury dishes, many of which are deeply missed by expats living far from home. But what is most missed?

Biltong is confessed as the special one with 27%, followed by 18% voting for boerewors. 

Nostalgia on the Air

South Africa has had no shortage of its own quirky gems when it comes to TV shows. In the survey, expats were asked about the most memorable South African shows that they miss from home. 

The most fondly remembered is “7de Laan” with 27% vote, followed by 18% mentioning “Egoli”, a popular soap opera that captivated audiences for over a decade before its cancellation in 2010. These are closely followed by “Noot vir Noot” (15%), alongside others such as “Generations” and “Eastern Mosaic”.

Eish and Howzit, Lost in Translation

South African slang is such an ingrained component of our peculiar linguistic tapestry, that we often don’t even realise when we use it in our everyday speech. But simple terms such as “robot” or “bakkie” will often leave foreigners perplexed. How well do South Africans adjust abroad?

Interestingly, 26% of respondents admitted to using “lekker” most often, while 36% proudly stated that “braai” is simply not the same as “barbecue”. Understandably, many expats still greet others with “howzit” (12%), and 13% still say “eish” (which perhaps cannot be said in any other polite way).

Unveiling the South African Expat Profile

Unfortunately the survey fails to highlight the demographics of the South African expat population abroad. 

According to Thomas Lobban, Head of Expatriate Tax Residency at Financial Emigration, “the type of individual leaving South Africa is no longer one with established wealth and years of experience under their belt. These days, most individuals leaving South Africa are still in the early stages of their career, evidently seeking better opportunities and security abroad, often between 30 to 45 years of age.” 

United We Stand 

While it does highlight the significance of shared experiences, traditions, and cultural touchpoints that continue to unite our people, being shared with over 300 online social groups; the survey results also underscore the widespread presence of South Africans across the globe. And no matter where they are in the world, the heart of South Africa still seems to beat strong within its expat communities.

Look out for the next survey and stay connected with fellow expats through our Facebook Group “Home is Where the Heart is: SA Expats Worldwide”.

Written by Home is Where the Hear is: SA Expats Worldwide - Administrators