For thousands of our people who live overseas, the word “home” has gained a new meaning. It is no longer just a place on a map, it is a feeling that travels with you. You learn that your heart is big enough to cherish more than one place, that you can carry all the places you hold in your heart together.

When you emigrate or live abroad for a period of time, a part of you stays behind in South Africa. You remember the smell of a braai, the soft sounds of the languages you used to hear every day, the smell of rain on red soil. Yet new roots will grow: friendships, opportunities and a different way of life.

You don’t have to choose between here and there, you can live in peace with both.

Hints on how to feel at home between two worlds

1. Create a small corner with all things South African where you are.

It is unbelievable how something such as a bookshelf with books from your favourite South African authors, koeksisters or biltong can bring back the feeling of belonging. Your home abroad doesn’t have to be big to feel warm, just real.

2. Stay connected to people who understand you.

There are times when you don’t have to explain why you sometimes yearn, you just want to be heard. Diaspora communities, online groups and AfriForum Worldwide’s platforms provide precisely that link between people who are walking the same path.

3. Open yourself up for your new world.

Embracing your new home doesn’t mean you are abandoning the old one. Learn the local language, participate in traditions, make new friends. Every experience adds a layer of richness to who you are.

4. Accept that yearning is part of love.

Longing for something is not a sign of weakness, it is proof that you love more than one place. You carry people, smells and memories with you. It is a blessing, not a burden.

How AfriForum Worldwide helps you to live between two homes

AfriForum Worldwide understands that “home” is not always just a geographical location. That is why we exist, to be a lifeline for our people abroad – a network that connects people through language, culture, family and shared values.

The World Guide connects South Africans with each other, whether you are looking for a South African hairdresser in Canada or a bookshop in the Netherlands – we give you a sense of community.

The Out and about column tells gives honest accounts of people who have already taken this journey, how much they miss home, their pride, and what they do to still feel at home abroad.

The Spotlight newsletter keeps you up to date about news, festivals and South African artists touring the world, helping you to remember that you are still part of a community despite borders.

And through our social media channels you stay connected, informed and encouraged, wherever you live.

Home is not only a place on a map, it’s the people, memories and language you take with you. For thousands of South Africans abroad this means taking the places that have a permanent place in their hearts with them wherever they go: the place where they grew up and the places where they live now. AfriForum Worldwide helps to find this balance between missing what you had and adapting to your new life.

Also read: This life lewe