Navigating Life and Identity as a South African Abroad with Cornis Van Der Lugt-Ep 65
The Relocated South African | Emigration storiesPlay episode
Show notes
In this episode I speak with Cornis van der Lugt, a South African sustainability expert.
He shares insights on his international career, the transition from apartheid to democracy, and living across different cultures.
This episode offers valuable lessons on resilience, cultural diversity, and building a meaningful life abroad.
He discusses his childhood and family history rooted in the Western Cape and Dutch heritage and his involvement in anti-apartheid activism and transition into international environmental governance.
He provides insights on navigating life and career in Europe, including language learning and cultural integration
He shares his view on the importance of diaspora networks, maintaining roots, and fostering diversity
Cornis Van Der Lugt: "Stay positive and embrace your roots"
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Cornis van der Lugt’s journey from South Africa to Europe
02:18 - Early influences: Family, upbringing, and political awakening
05:37 - University years and student protests in Stellenbosch
08:20 - First encounters with the ANC in Lusaka and exile experiences
10:37 - Transitioning into government work and South Africa's democracy
12:11 - Reflection on South Africa’s post-apartheid progress and challenges
15:13 - Foreseeing South Africa's future and lessons from history
17:34 - Rebuilding infrastructure and leadership in South Africa today
19:28 - Addressing crime and safety issues in South Africa
22:41 - Living abroad in Paris, Geneva, and cultural adaptation
25:12 - Language skills and cultural experiences across Europe
27:31 - Food, travel, and the joys of European multiculturalism
30:37 - Living in Switzerland: multicultural food and community life
32:24 - Staying connected to South African roots and diaspora networks
36:36 - Why South Africans excel abroad and resilience in the diaspora
39:22 - Cost of living, healthcare, and quality of life in Switzerland and Europe
41:32 - Success stories of South Africans internationally and their mindset
44:31 - Future plans: Retiring between South Africa and Europe
45:55 - The role of education, diversification, and AI in career planning
48:50 - Reflections on staying connected to South Africa and cultural roots
49:46 - Cornis’s advice to young professionals and future opportunities
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