What makes someone decide to leave South Africa after thirty years and start again overseas? Is it crime, opportunity for kids, or maybe just a change in family circumstances? These are questions I explored in my latest chat with Steve Ayres, who moved from South Africa back to the UK after decades of building a life in Johannesburg.

In this episode, you’ll hear Steve’s honest take on what drove his family’s decision to relocate and what it’s really like being a South African abroad - even if, technically, he’s English by birth! I really enjoyed talking to Steve. His positive attitude towards South Africa, as well as his practical reflections on life in both countries, gave me a lot to think about. I hope you find Steve’s story as relatable and inspiring as I did.

Whether you’re considering relocating or just curious about other South Africans’ journeys, there’s something for you here.

“Building a life in the world's most beautiful country, which you've got to think it is really there, such an air of optimism and it… really felt like this was the best place on the planet.” - Steve Ayres

00:00 Introduction

04:12 His journey to SA

09:35 Longing for holidays in SA

12:36 What their family misses most

14:41 Connecting across continents

19:55 Global political leadership

23:17 Remote work experience pre-pandemic

26:53 SA vs England in sports

28:22 “Dog-earned ID”

If you want to connect with us or share your own story, please contact us on:

[email protected]

This podcast was produced by the team at Zapods Podcast Agency:

https://www.zapods.com