FREE SPECIAL REPORT

Dear South African Community in the UK,

One of the best ways to settle into UK life is to find your people—those who get the expat journey, share your love for a good braai, or just know what it’s like to miss the SA sunshine.

As of March 5, 2025, the UK’s expat scene is buzzing with groups ready to welcome South Africans like us.

Whether you’re in London’s hustle or a quieter corner, here’s a deeper dive into UK expat groups—think InterNations and beyond—to help you build a support network, swap stories, and feel less like a fish out of water.

Why Expat Groups Matter

Moving from SA to the UK can stir up a mix of excitement and homesickness—new accents to decode, grey skies to endure, and no Spur on speed dial. Expat groups bridge that gap, offering a blend of familiarity and fresh connections.

For South Africans, they’re a lifeline to others who understand “lekker” and can point you to the nearest biltong stash. Plus, they’re a goldmine for practical tips—housing, jobs, or where to watch the Springboks.

Key Expat Groups in the UK

1. InterNations – The Global Expat Hub

• What It Is: InterNations is the world’s biggest expat network, with over 4 million members across 420 cities, including thriving UK chapters.

  It’s not SA-specific but has a strong South African presence, especially in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

• How It Works: Sign up at www.internations.org (basic membership is free; premium unlocks more perks).

  You’ll join forums to ask anything—think “Where’s the best SA butcher in London?”—and tap into events like wine tastings or rooftop parties (e.g., London’s New Year Dolce Vita event in January 2025).

• For South Africans: The “South Africans in the UK” sub-community is active, with members from Cape Town to Durban sharing advice.

  Events range from casual pub nights to themed gatherings—think après-ski vibes or Japanese restaurant meet-ups.

• Cost: Free to join; premium is £5-£10/month for extra access.

• Why Join: Perfect for networking, meeting internationals, and finding SA expats who’ve been there, done that.

2. South Africans in the UK (Facebook Group)

• What It Is: A private Facebook group with over 30,000 members (and growing), started over a decade ago for Saffas across the UK.

• How It Works: Search “South Africans in the UK” on Facebook, request to join, and dive in. It’s a virtual braai—chat about missing Mrs Ball’s chutney, trade relocation tips, or plan meet-ups.

• For South Africans: It’s our space—think posts about SA food pop-ups (like Wimbledon’s Biltong & Braai) or rugby watch parties.

  Members often organise local gatherings, especially in London hubs like Putney or Croydon.

• Cost: Free—just need a Facebook account.

• Why Join: Instant SA vibes, no frills, and a massive community at your fingertips.

3. South African Chamber of Commerce in the UK (SACCUK)

• What It Is: A professional network linking SA businesses and expats, based in London but reaching nationwide.

• How It Works: Visit www.southafricanchamber.co.uk to join or RSVP for events—think business breakfasts, gala dinners (like their annual London bash), or webinars on UK-SA trade.

• For South Africans: It’s a mix of pros and socialites—great for job hunters, entrepreneurs, or anyone wanting to mingle with high-flying Saffas.

  Their 2025 events calendar is already buzzing with networking nights.

• Cost: Membership varies (£50-£200/year); some events are free or pay-as-you-go.

• Why Join: Elevate your career while sipping rooibos with SA movers and shakers.

4. Meetup.com – Local SA & Expat Groups

• What It Is: A platform hosting interest-based groups, with plenty of expat and SA-specific options across UK cities.

• How It Works: Go to www.meetup.com, search “South African” or “expat” plus your city (e.g., “London expats”).

  You’ll find groups like “South Africans in London” or broader “International Friends” meet-ups—think hikes, pub quizzes, or coffee mornings.

• For South Africans: Smaller, local SA crews pop up—like a Bristol braai club or Manchester’s SA expat dinners. Numbers vary (10-50 attendees), but the vibe’s personal.

• Cost: Free to join; some events charge £2-£10 for venue costs.

• Why Join: Low-key, hobby-driven, and a chance to bond over shared SA roots or new UK adventures.

5. Springbok Supporters UK

• What It Is: A rugby-mad community for SA expats, uniting fans across the UK.

• How It Works: Join their WhatsApp groups or follow on social media (search “Springbok Supporters UK”).

  They organise match screenings at pubs—think Six Nations 2025 or Rugby Championship clashes.

• For South Africans: Pure SA spirit—cheer the Boks, sip Castle Lager, and swap rugby yarns. Big in London, with pockets in Cardiff and Edinburgh.

• Cost: Free, just cover your own drinks!

• Why Join: Instant camaraderie for sports lovers—nothing beats shouting “Bokke!” with your people.

6. Church & Cultural Groups

• What It Is: Faith-based or cultural hubs with SA ties—e.g., Hillsong UK, Afrikaans churches, or SA heritage societies.

• How It Works: Google “South African church UK” or “Afrikaans events [your city].” Hillsong’s got branches in London and beyond, hosting services and socials. Look for Afrikaans kerkdienste in places like Reading or Slough.

• For South Africans: Familiar hymns, Afrikaans chatter, or Heritage Day braais—perfect if you’re missing SA traditions.

• Cost: Free or donation-based.

Why Join: Spiritual and cultural comfort—plus, the potluck pap en vleis is unbeatable.

Practical Tips for Getting Involved

• Start Online: Dip into InterNations forums or the SA Facebook group first—ask about local SA hotspots or upcoming events.

• Show Up: Events like InterNations’ London rooftop nights or Meetup’s pub crawls are low-pressure ways to meet folks. Bring a mate if you’re shy!

• Bring SA Flavour: Offer to host a braai or share biltong—Brits and expats alike love it, and it’s a conversation starter.

• Mix It Up: Don’t stick to SA-only circles—groups like InterNations blend nationalities, broadening your network.

Stay Updated: Check event calendars—InterNations posts monthly, SACCUK quarterly, and Facebook groups buzz daily.

Final Thoughts

The UK’s expat groups are your shortcut to feeling at home—whether it’s InterNations’ slick events, the Facebook crew’s SA banter, or a rugby roar with Springbok fans.

With over 200,000 of us here, you’re never far from a familiar accent or a shared laugh about missing boerewors.

Jump in, connect, and let’s keep the SA spirit alive in Blighty. Found your tribe yet? Tell me your story—I’d love to feature it next time!

Lekker vibes,

Troy & Sarah

The information in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Consult a qualified expert before making decisions based on this content.