I was encouraged by an recent article, regarding South Africans returning home. The articles says that officially 50% of South Africans living abroad intend to come home for good some time. Here is an excerpt:
"An increasing number of South African expats intend to exchange life abroad for home comforts.
The in-depth online survey was carried out (on South Africans) in the UK, US, Canada, Dubai and Australia. Of the respondents, 72% said that they were likely or highly likely to return to South Africa. Those most likely to return were from the UK, US and Canada.
South Africans living in Australia last visited at least three to four years ago, with 78% having had a good experience. A full 100% of responses from the US were positive.
The depressed global economy is also a strong factor influencing people’s decision to return to home. Although South Africa’s economy is also taking strain, the survey found that 50% of people living abroad are likely to come back.
“This is a great opportunity, as we are gaining from international experience both in skills and entrepreneurship. For many, there is a conscious decision to be home and make a difference,” Schaffer said in a statement.
She pointed out that South Africa needs more entrepreneurs who are willing to start businesses and provide employment. “South Africa is the kind of place where one can take more risks and what is exciting is that people are coming back with out-of-the-box business ideas. We need this in South Africa.”
Stephen Hurter, a South African living in the UK, has noticed a significant decline in job opportunities. He agreed that South Africa holds much more opportunity for self-employment.
“Here it seems there is less small business opportunity,” he said. “But South Africa is definitely a place where you need to be able to make your own job. I don’t think jobs in South Africa are necessarily better, but the quality of life certainly is.”
The survey profiling of South Africans in the UK found that 85% are positive about South Africa. They enjoy living abroad for the new job and travel opportunities, but dislike the weather, lack of space and miss their families. They are also concerned about finding employment and no longer earning a strong currency.
South Africans living in Dubai, the US and Canada said that they struggle with cultural differences and the indoor lifestyle. Survey respondents in Australia said they don’t feel accepted in that country and are having difficulty in finding work in their chosen profession.
Schaffer said 41% are likely to return, but are still worried if this would be the right decision. Employment, a high crime rate and political uncertainty in South Africa were their main grievances"
Full article : by Wilma den Hartigh -
Mediaclub South AfricaLabels: Australia, Canada, emigrate, London South African, Pitch to uk investors, SA expats, Voting rights for South Africans abroad
