The Homecoming Revolution: A Journey Back to the Heart of South Africa
In the mosaic of life, certain moments stand out as transformative, shaping our understanding of where we come from and where we belong. As the Managing Director of Crown Relocations South Africa, Ian Pettey shares his thoughts on South Africa at the intersection of a global phenomenon — a Homecoming Revolution. This isn’t merely a statistical trend; it’s a narrative etched in personal stories, a journey back to the heart of South Africa. In this piece, Pettey shares insights gleaned from leading a global relocations company, which provides relocation and moving services for individuals, families, and businesses worldwide. From the allure of the African lifestyle to the challenges propelling individuals back from the UK, USA, and Australia, he delves into the tapestry of emotions that define this unique movement. This is a discourse on the Homecoming Revolution, as witnessed through the lens of an MD deeply invested in the stories of those choosing to make South Africa their home once again.
In the aftermath of a world shaken by the relentless waves of the Covid-19 pandemic, a unique phenomenon has emerged — a global homecoming revolution. It’s a movement that sees individuals from all walks of life, from the bustling streets of the UK to the sun-kissed landscapes of Australia and the sprawling cities of the USA, making the journey back to the heart of it all, South Africa.
A Tapestry of Contrasts: The Love-Hate Relationship with South Africa
South Africa, a land of stark contrasts and vibrant diversity, possesses an allure that transcends its challenges. It’s a place where one can experience the full spectrum of emotions in a single day — from the warmth of the perpetual sunshine to the thrill of a Woolies shopping spree and the tranquillity of a poolside braai. South Africa, it seems, invites you to love and hate it all at once, creating a unique tapestry of experiences that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
For those returning, the desire to be close to friends and family often acts as a powerful magnet. It’s a pull that transcends borders and beckons people back to the familiar embrace of loved ones. The sense of purpose and belonging that South Africa instils is an intangible force, drawing many back to contribute to the growth and development of the nation they call home.
The Allure of the African Lifestyle
We cannot discuss the homecoming revolution without acknowledging the unparalleled lifestyle that South Africa offers. It’s a place where children can run barefoot on the grass, swim in the pool, and grow up with a connection to the outdoors that is becoming increasingly rare in other parts of the world. And, despite a challenging exchange rate, the ZAR stretches further than the GBP, adding an economic incentive to the already enticing lifestyle.
Moreover, as remote work becomes the norm and the African continent presents a plethora of opportunities, South Africa is emerging as a hub for innovative careers. With a critical skills shortage across various sectors — including IT, management consultancy, financial services, healthcare, and education — the prospect of making a meaningful impact in your home country becomes a compelling reason to return.
The Global Landscape: What’s Driving the Homecoming Trend
For those considering the return to South Africa, the decision is often influenced by the challenges faced in their current places of residence.
Embracing change amidst economic shifts: The escalating cost of living in the UK, with the stark choice between putting food on the table and heating the home, is a pressing concern. In a landscape where overall food prices rose by 12.8% in 2022, the prospect of returning to South Africa becomes increasingly attractive, especially when the GBP maintains its dominance over the ZAR.
Navigating challenges in housing: Australia like other parts of the world, is grappling with a housing crisis, resulting in a 27% surge in people seeking help from homeless services. The shrinking rental market in metropolitan hubs and a lack of public service assistance drive many expats to consider returning home, where their Australian dollars can be leveraged to establish a new life.
Charting new paths amidst a changing landscape: In the USA, soaring property values and a housing shortage contribute to a cost-of-living crisis, making homeownership an elusive dream for many. Additionally, the alarming rise in mass shootings, with 38 recorded in the first month of 2023, adds a layer of concern. While South Africa faces its own crime challenges, the motivations behind mass shootings here are specific and often localised. The exorbitant cost of medical care is also a motivation to live elsewhere.
In the grand tapestry of the global homecoming revolution, South Africa stands as a beacon, attracting its people back with promises of connection, purpose, and an unparalleled way of life. As the world contends with uncertainties, the call of home resonates louder than ever, drawing a diverse array of individuals back to the heart of South Africa — a place where love and fear, joy and challenge coexist in a dance that is uniquely and undeniably South African. Welcome home.