Navigating Life and Identity as a South African Abroad with Cornis Van Der Lugt-Ep 65

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 integrationHe shares his view on the importance of diaspora networks, maintaining roots, and fostering diversityCornis Van Der Lugt: "Stay positive and embrace your roots"Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Cornis van der Lugt’s journey from South Africa to Europe02:18 - Early influences: Family, upbringing, and political awakening05:37 - University years and student protests in Stellenbosch08:20 - First encounters with the ANC in Lusaka and exile experiences10:37 - Transitioning into government work and South Africa's democracy12:11 - Reflection on South Africa’s post-apartheid progress and challenges15:13 - Foreseeing South Africa's future and lessons from history17:34 - Rebuilding infrastructure and leadership in South Africa today19:28 - Addressing crime and safety issues in South Africa22:41 - Living abroad in Paris, Geneva, and cultural adaptation25:12 - Language skills and cultural experiences across Europe27:31 - Food, travel, and the joys of European multiculturalism30:37 - Living in Switzerland: multicultural food and community life32:24 - Staying connected to South African roots and diaspora networks36:36 - Why South Africans excel abroad and resilience in the diaspora39:22 - Cost of living, healthcare, and quality of life in Switzerland and Europe41:32 - Success stories of South Africans internationally and their mindset44:31 - Future plans: Retiring between South Africa and Europe45:55 - The role of education, diversification, and AI in career planning48:50 - Reflections on staying connected to South Africa and cultural roots49:46 - Cornis’s advice to young professionals and future opportunitiesYour documents should not slow down your new life. Apostil obtains, processes, and couriers South African police clearances, apostille certificates, unabridged documents, and more, directly to your door, anywhere in the world.Fast, professional, and stress-free. Need your documents sorted? Visit Apostil here -⁠https://tinyurl.com/apostilcoza⁠Documents with convenience.