Have you ever thought about taking your studies international? What about starting out a new business venture abroad? What challenges and opportunities might arise, and how do you overcome them?

In this episode, I chat to Kyle du Toit, who left South Africa to pursue his studies in Budapest, Hungary, before later working in Austria and eventually returning to Hungary to try his hand at entrepreneurship. I really enjoyed hearing Kyle’s story, because he’s so obviously adventurous and open-minded. He wasn’t afraid to take risks and try new things. It was inspiring to learn how he navigated language barriers, adapted to new cultures, and has managed to stay connected with family and friends back home.

If you’re considering a future abroad, or just want to hear a relatable story about life after leaving South Africa, I think you’ll really enjoy this episode.

“I wanted to move abroad just to spread my wings.” - Kyle du Toit

00:00 Introduction

04:32 An entrepreneurial mindset

07:05 Studying at an international university

09:21 Overcoming the language barrier

14:45 Work experience abroad

17:11 Impression of SA nowadays

19:33 What he misses most about SA

21:30 Reflecting on making mistakes

23:52 Advice for moving abroad

25:01 Favourite things about Budapest

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

https://www.zapods.com

Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to uproot your whole life and move your family to a small island in the middle of the Irish Sea? Or what would make someone leave the warmth and familiarity of South Africa for a place where summer might only last a few days?

In this episode, I chat with Alicia and Silvano Pizzocaro, a South African couple who decided to search for a safer environment and better future for their children, and chose the Isle of Man as their new home. We talk about everything from the notorious weather and the world-famous TT motorbike race, to what it really means to feel settled and build a new sense of community far from home.

I truly enjoyed hearing Alicia and Silvano’s story. Their honesty about the ups and downs of life abroad, as well as the humour in their day-to-day experiences – like walking home at 2am with a pizza in hand, something they’d never do in South Africa – was inspiring and relatable. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed our conversation.

“There is a better life out there than what South Africa has to offer.” - Alica Pizzocaro

00:00 Introduction

02:15 Experiencing the annual TT races

05:38 When and why they left SA

07:22 Lockdown on the Isle of Man

11:21 Their daughter was an alien

14:05 Visiting SA

16:31 Finding friends and community abroad

20:49 Feeling isolated

22:27 Sharing funny stories

24:02 Considering safety and loadshedding

26:01 Settling into their new life

27:41 Advice for anyone emigrating

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

https://www.zapods.com

What drives someone to leave behind the only home they've ever known? Is it crime, corruption, or simply searching for a better future for your child? Perhaps it’s all of these.

In this episode, I interview Martin Labuschagne, who made the big move from Pretoria, South Africa, to the UK with his wife and young son in 2019. Martin’s story stood out to me because, like myself, he made the decision to emigrate later in life, at the age of 48. We talk about what it's like to start over at an older age, the challenges of red tape, and the emotional toll of leaving family and friends behind.

Speaking to Martin was a real eye-opener. I felt a genuine connection with his story, especially his honesty about the difficulties, sacrifices, and the strong sense of responsibility he feels as a parent. His insights about integrating with a new community, dealing with practical hurdles, and the emotional side of moving abroad really resonated with me.

If you’re considering relocating or are interested in how others navigate this journey, I’m sure you’ll find Martin’s story as compelling and relatable as I did.

“If you can go, go in your 20s or in your 30s, go as soon as you can so you can start making a life there earlier.” - Martin Labuschagne

00:00 Introduction

03:32 Rushing to relocate pre-Brexit

05:50 Proving their relationship was real

10:25 Immigrate early

15:52 Moving to the UK is expensive

18:58 Would they ever go back?

22:40 Giving away his beloved books

25:06 Writing from the heart

27:16 Feeling numb when they left SA

29:45 Advice for anyone thinking of leaving

Resources

• Read Martin’s original article about emigrating from South Africa, published by Netwerk24: https://www.netwerk24.com/netwerk24/stemme/menings/martin-labuschagne-teenoor-britse-jeugdiges-is-kinders-in-sa-nogal-soet-20250618

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

https://www.zapods.com