Jeez, can you believe it’s been almost four months since I started writing this newsletter? Honestly, I’ve had so much fun putting it together every week—it’s been a proper jol! But I won’t lie—it’s also a lot of work.

There are weeks when I’m scratching my head, wondering what on earth to write about, or trying to squeeze it in between everything else life throws at me. But even with all that, I love doing it. It’s been such a cool way to connect with everyone and share bits of life here in Vancouver.

But here’s the thing: since we started the South African Institute of Canada (SAIC), the newsletter has grown way bigger than I ever imagined. We’ve got readers from all over Canada now, many of whom are keen to hear about what’s happening beyond Vancouver.

At the same time, I still want to keep this newsletter as my personal little corner—a place to chat about Vancouver, share my random musings, and keep things lekker and local. So, I’ve made a plan. From now on, there’ll be two newsletters:

• South Africans in Vancouver Newsletter: This one! It’s staying just as it is—local updates, personal stories, and all the Vancouver goodness.

• SAIC Newsletter: A new, Canada-wide newsletter for the Institute, packed with updates, resources, and big-picture stuff for everyone across the country.

If you’re keen on hearing more about what the Institute is doing, you can sign up for the SAIC newsletter here. Just scroll to the bottom of the site and drop in your email address. It’s only once a month, so it won’t flood your inbox.

And if you’re happy right here in this newsletter, no stress—I’m still here, writing away, and keeping it lekker. 😊

P.S. While you are checking out the SAIC website, let me know what you think! It’s brand new, and we’re still working on it. If you spot anything weird—like something that doesn’t look right on your screen—please shout. I don’t have all the different screen sizes to test it on, so your feedback would be a huge help.

In Today’s Newsletter

• Upcoming Events: Quiet on the event front, but we need your help!

• SAFFA Spotlight: Sandy & Warren’s inspiring journey from Funky Pants to business success.

• Cheap Flights to SA: Don’t miss these deals, including flights to Mauritius!

• Job Opportunity in South Vancouver: A temp receptionist role for a fellow Saffa.

Upcoming Events

It’s a bit quiet on the event front right now, but if you know of anything happening in the community, please let us know! Whether it’s a braai, a meetup, or a good excuse to get together, email [email protected] so we can share it here and help keep things lekker.

SAFA Spotlight: From Funky Pants to Buying a Business in Canada with Sandy & Warren

This week, I had the chance to sit down with Sandy and Warren, two Saffas who arrived in Canada in 2019 and have been hustling ever since. Their journey is such a great example of rolling with the punches and finding success, even when things don’t go as planned.

When they first landed, they were full of hope, with their South African brand, Funky Pants, ready to take on Canada. But reality hit fast. As Sandy put it, “Vancouver is super brand-loyal. People love their Lululemon, and breaking into that market was just impossible.” They spent a ton of time doing events, meeting amazing people (especially other South Africans!), but in the end, it wasn’t enough to keep the dream alive.

Instead of throwing in the towel, they shifted gears. Sandy and Warren realized that putting all their money into a house and being stuck with a 25-year mortgage wasn’t the right move for them. Instead, they decided to buy a business. That decision changed everything.

With the help of an incredibly supportive banker and a business broker, they found Stan’s Transmission Center, a 60-year-old, well-established business. Warren joked, “I can’t believe we ever thought about buying a house instead. This makes so much more sense!” The bank financed the business over five years, and now, almost three years later, they’re not only thriving but also hiring other South Africans who are just starting their own Canadian journey.

On top of all that, Sandy runs Crank It Sports, selling funky South African socks and pants. Go check it out—Sandy’s got some lekker specials running right now!

If you’ve ever thought about buying a business here, Sandy and Warren are happy to share their tips and connect you with their broker or banker. “It’s scary at first,” Warren said, “but honestly, it’s been the best decision we’ve made.”

Check out the full video »>Here«<

Cheap Flights to South Africa and Beyond

Every now and then, those elusive cheap flights to South Africa pop up, and right now, we’ve got some cracking deals! You can fly from Vancouver to Johannesburg for as low as $895, or head to Cape Town for between $919 and $1,155.

But wait—here’s a surprise: there are also flights to Mauritius for just $1,169. I mean, Mauritius! I used to love it there—such a stunning place to just soak up the sun and relax. Although, I’m not sure how I feel about a 28-hour trip these days. What do you think, worth it?

Click here to check out these deals before they disappear!

Job Opportunity in South Vancouver

Here’s a great opportunity for anyone looking for a temporary job or some extra cash over the next three to four months. A South African-owned company in South Vancouver is looking for a temporary receptionist to cover the front desk while their current receptionist is on maternity leave.

• Pay: $19–$20 an hour.

• Skills Needed: All you need to do is answer the phones, chat to clients who walk in, and handle some basic admin work.

• Hours: 3–4 days a week, typically from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM (or 4:00 PM).

• Flexibility: It’s not a full-time gig, so you can chat with them about what schedule works for you.

The owners are South Africans and would love to give this opportunity to another Saffa. If this sounds like something for you—or someone you know—get in touch with [email protected] and let’s make it happen!

PS: Please go Check out The SAIC website and let me know what you think!

Oh, and what would be even more awesome is if you could test those little membership signup buttons. 😉 I’d love to know if they work properly!

PPS: Anyone going to SA soon?

Someone in the community is looking to send four books to their brother in South Africa. If you’re heading back home soon and could take them along, please let us know! It would be a huge help.

Thanks a ton!

Cheers,

Callie