Out and about is a column where we talk to people who currently live abroad or who used to live and work there. This week we chat to Zané Neizel, who lives in Alabama, USA.

Hello Zané, it is great to chat to you! Where in South Africa are you originally from, and why did you decide to emigrate to Finland and then to the USA?

My husband, Bryson, and I met in Potchefstroom. We then moved to Steelpoort, where we began to build our life together, and later we also lived in Witbank for a while before our big adventure began.

We initially moved to Finland after Bryson got a job opportunity there. At the time, our children were five and eight years old, respectively, and we felt it was the perfect time to embark on an adventure. After two and a half years in Finland, another opportunity presented itself in the US, and we decided to take the plunge again. It was a big change, but also an incredible experience. Both Finland and the US are exceptional countries to live in, and we feel privileged to have been able to experience both.

Tell us more about your family.

We are a family of four. Bryson is a process engineer and I am a teacher. We have two wonderful daughters who keep our home full of energy, laughter and curiosity. As a family, we enjoy doing things together – whether it is hanging out with friends, exploring new places or just relaxing together at home.

We also have two long-haired dachshunds who have taken on the world with us. They moved with us from South Africa to Finland and later to the US and are definitely part of every adventure. For me, our family is my greatest support and anchor – the place where I find balance and perspective, no matter where we live.

How did you experience the emigration process? Was it a big adaptation?

The decision to leave South Africa was not easy. We are very attached to our family and our country, and the farewell was emotional. We did not leave because we did not love South Africa, on the contrary. We went because a special job opportunity came our way.

Finland was an incredible experience, but also a big adaptation. Everything was new: the culture, the climate and even the language. At first it was challenging, but we met wonderful people who helped us feel at home there. We truly believe that God placed people on our path to support us.

One of the biggest lessons was to live with an open mind and embrace the Finnish way of doing things. The Finns say there is no such thing as bad weather – just bad clothing. The cold and snow took a lot of adaptation, but it became part of the adventure.

In Alabama, the adaptation was easier. The culture felt closer to what we knew, and the sense of community reminded us a lot of South Africa.

Did you make new friends easily?

Yes, we were very fortunate. It always takes time to find your place, but we quickly experienced how friendly people can be. In Alabama there is a strong sense of community and people welcome you with open arms. “Southern hospitality” is true – people are hospitable, open and willing to help.

How does the school system in Alabama differ from that of South Africa?

As a teacher and a mother, I have experienced it from both sides. Technology plays a very big role in American schools. The famous yellow school buses are also truly impressive and work very well.

Another thing that stands out is the strong patriotism and school spirit. Learners participate in the Pledge of Allegiance, and there is a great pride in their country. Unlike in South Africa, learners do not wear uniforms, and I am very impressed with the discipline in the classroom.

What was the biggest adaptation?

In Finland it was the climate – the long, dark winters and the cold. The language and culture also took time to understand. But we quickly learned that a smile is understood in any language.

In the US it was things like the size of everything – stores, portions and vehicles. But the sense of community and loyalty is special.

For me personally, it was about building a home from scratch, developing new people, new rhythms and a sense of belonging again.

What surprised you about Alabama?

The strong sense of community and the role of churches surprised me. People support each other and there is a genuine care for each other. It reminds me a lot of South Africa.

Sports also play a big role, especially college football. Game days become big community events.

The history, food, music and traditions of the South give the region a unique character.

What lessons have you learned?

We have learned how adaptable a person can be and how important people and community are. When you live far from family, the people you meet become very precious.

The biggest lesson is that “home” is not just a place, but the people you share your life with.

What does your Afrikaner heritage mean to you?

It means a lot to me. It is part of who I am – my language, culture and values. We speak Afrikaans at home and keep our traditions alive.

Food plays a big role, and a braai or South African dishes always bring a sense of home. We also enjoy South African wine when we can find it.

How do you get a “taste of home”?

South African products are not always easy to find, but there are online stores and sometimes surprises in local stores. We have also met other South Africans and it is always special to hear Afrikaans again.

What would you call your emigration chapter?

“An adventure of faith and new beginnings.” It was not always easy, but definitely worth it.

How have you changed personally?

I am more open to new experiences and change. I have a greater appreciation for my origins and also gained the courage to pursue new dreams – like publishing my first book.

I learned to trust the process and keep faith, family and gratitude central.

Final advice for others who want to emigrate?

Emigration is an adventure that requires time, patience and an open heart. There will be challenges, but also incredible new experiences.

Hold on to who you are, but be open to new cultures. And stand together strongly as a family – it makes the road so much easier.

And perhaps most importantly: trust the process. You will never be alone.

Also read: Far from my country, but not from my heart