I’ve wanted to write this for years, and today, as I sip my coffee on a breezy Friday morning in Johannesburg, it feels right. The familiar hum of traffic fills the air, and I’m reminded of why this country has my heart.
Take something as simple as driving in Joburg. It’s chaotic, sure, but there’s this little ritual that always gets me: the thank-you wave. A driver changes lanes, flashes their hazards in gratitude, and the car behind responds with a quick flick of their headlights. It’s a tiny moment of human connection in the midst of the madness—and that’s South Africa for you. Even in the chaos, there’s kindness.
I wasn’t born here, but I’ve called this country home since I was four. After spending nearly two decades in South Africa, I left for Dubai, embarking on a journey that took me across six countries and over 40 others. I lived in Canada, Portugal, Indonesia, Australia, Malta, and eventually the U.S. Each place offered something unique, but none of them felt like home. So, here I am, back in South Africa—this time for good.
What Makes South Africa Special
I’ve been asked countless times why I came back, especially when so many dream of leaving. My answer? South Africa is incomparable. Here are just a few of the reasons why:
A Nation of Gratitude
In South Africa, gratitude is woven into everyday life. Whether it’s a driver thanking you on the road or the smile of a car guard when you hand over a few coins, there’s a genuine appreciation for the small things. I’ve left big tips in other countries where it’s expected, but it rarely felt as meaningful as these everyday moments of thanks here.
Unity in Diversity
When South Africa won its fourth Rugby World Cup in 2023, the country lit up with pride. It wasn’t just about the trophy—it was about the way we came together as one, even if only for a moment. That kind of unity is rare, and when it happens here, it’s electric.
Resilience and Generosity
South Africans don’t just endure hardships—they rise above them with remarkable generosity. I’ll never forget Innocent, a Woolies attendant who offered me half his lunch when the store ran out of food. His words still stay with me: “Chief, I’ve spent too many nights without food to let someone else go hungry.” That’s the spirit of this country: resilient, kind, and deeply human.
We Laugh, Even at the Hard Stuff
Yes, we have load shedding, water shortages, and potholes that could swallow a car. But instead of despairing, we braai, laugh, and make do. There’s a unique charm in how we embrace our challenges with humor and camaraderie.
The Food
Bunny chow, boerewors, malva pudding, biltong—need I say more? South African cuisine isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of culture and flavor. It’s impossible to beat.
The Warmth of the People
There’s a friendliness here that’s hard to find elsewhere. Strangers greet you, ask how you’re doing, and genuinely care about the answer. It’s a kind of human warmth that makes you feel like you belong, no matter where you come from.
Endless Potential
South Africa has so much talent and creativity waiting to be unleashed. From innovative startups like Yoco to groundbreaking artists and athletes, this country is brimming with potential. Despite the challenges, South Africans dream big and work hard, proving time and again that success is possible here.
Pride and Humility
South Africans know how to strike the perfect balance between humility and pride. Whether it’s our Springboks lifting the World Cup or the Proteas making us proud, we know when to celebrate and when to stay grounded.
A Decision to Return
It’s easy to focus on the negatives—load shedding, crime, inequality—but I’ve learned that every country has its struggles. What sets South Africa apart is its heart. The people, the culture, the resilience—there’s a magic here that’s impossible to replicate.
After years of living abroad, I’ve given up my U.S. permanent residency to come back home. It’s not a decision I made lightly, but it feels right. Because no matter where I’ve been, nothing compares to the spirit of this place. South Africa is more than just a country—it’s a feeling, a community, a way of life.
I love South Africa. I always have, and I always will.
