Leaving home and everything familiar behind to start a new chapter as a YaWorker on the other side of the world—it’s quite the leap. But what does that actually do to you? And what’s the hardest part to get used to? Herman and Marius took the plunge and moved to the Netherlands to start a new life, and they share their experiences.

Swapping the South African sun, wildlife, and ‘braai’ for a life with unpredictable weather, cold, bicycles, and bitterballen. But also: more exciting work opportunities, a healthier lifestyle, greater freedom, and less stress. In 2022, Marius and Herman made the move with their families to the Netherlands to join YaWorks. A big but well-considered decision—not just for work, but also to live a freer and safer life. That made the choice for the Netherlands an easy one. The culture is quite similar, although the weather takes some getting used to. The men share their stories.

You might not come to the Netherlands for the weather, but why did you decide to make the move?

Herman: “I’ve always loved Europe; it’s amazing how easy it is to visit so many beautiful cities without flying thousands of kilometers. I previously lived in the UK for five years, and that left me wanting more. Plus, my wife is Russian, so it made sense to move back this way so she could be closer to her family. When I was offered the chance to work for YaWorks, I thought: let’s do it!”

Marius: “Job security was definitely a factor. Unemployment is high in South Africa, and quality jobs are hard to come by. Safety also played a big role. In South Africa, you really have to secure your home and always be alert. That’s much less the case in the Netherlands, which gives a lot of peace of mind. When I walk through Amsterdam at night, I don’t have to ask myself: is this safe?”

Herman: “Exactly. The lifestyle here is different—I feel much safer. Being able to walk outside late at night and seeing a woman biking past without a care in the world, that still amazes me. I do miss my family, but I’m also living my dream.”

What else do you enjoy about living in the Netherlands?

Herman: “The culture. I love museums and architecture, especially the history behind them. Europe has such a rich past, especially compared to South Africa.”

Marius: “I remember the first time I saw a playground right in the middle of a residential neighborhood. I thought, ‘family life really matters here.’ And having only a one-hour time difference with South Africa is a big plus.”

And how’s the food?

Marius: “I really like bitterballen and kroketten. But honestly, we don’t eat out much—it’s quite expensive here. I do miss a good ‘braai,’ a South African barbecue. Both the food and the social aspect. Fortunately, there are places in the Netherlands where you can get South African meats like ‘biltong,’ a special kind of dried beef.”

Herman: “And what I’d heard, but didn’t fully believe until I saw it—it’s true: everyone does everything by bike! Picking up my son from school by bike, I get that. But cycling from one city to another? I really don’t get that.”

How do you deal with homesickness?

Marius: “Taylor Swift once sang: ‘I’m happy, free, and confused, all at the same time.’ That sums it up for me. I miss my family and friends terribly, but I also know I get to live my own life and follow my dreams—even if I sometimes feel a little guilty about it. Talking to other South African colleagues has helped a lot. Knowing we’re all in the same boat makes things easier. We’ve become real friends, which is wonderful.”

Herman: “Absolutely. The other South African YaWorkers and their families have become my extended family here in the Netherlands. We help each other out and have fun together now and then. That really makes a difference, especially when your real family is spread all over the world.”

What are your experiences with YaWorks?

Herman: “Very positive. YaWorks truly cares about its people. The support with all the legal paperwork from South Africa was great. But it goes beyond just the practical stuff. During my first few months, I had a weekly call with my Field Manager to check in. Even now, I know I can count on them. That has really improved my work-life balance. Also nice: YaWorks makes every effort to help you feel at home. I thought the YaWorks gift bag at Schiphol, full of Dutch goodies, was a really thoughtful touch. And people are always willing to answer your questions—or ask how your family is doing.”

Marius: “Exactly. YaWorks doesn’t just promise, they do. Even the CEO sincerely asks how you’re doing and whether you and your family are settling in okay… That would be unthinkable in South Africa!”

A CEO who asks how you're doing... That’s unheard of in South Africa!

Any advice for (aspiring) international YaWorkers?

Herman: “Enjoy the ride! And give yourself time to adjust to your new life. From earlier expat experiences, I know the first six months are the hardest. After that, you start to settle in and find your rhythm.”

Marius: “Exactly—let it all come to you and give yourself time. Keep the bigger picture in mind. And know that a company like YaWorks offers amazing support and really takes a lot off your plate!”