Life’s funny isn’t it! One day you are on top, the next staring at your screen, wondering why you even bother.

This week started rough. I’d been chatting with a South African business—great people, doing something awesome. I even filmed a video of their shop, excited to share it and help spread the word–not asking for anything in return. I thought I was doing something good. But when I reached out to let them know, they told me not to post it. Just—no thanks.

And I’ll be honest—it hurt. Made me question things. Do they not trust me? Am I doing something wrong? Am I wasting my time trying to build this community?

Then, just to top it off a fellow Saffa casually said “You know, South Africans are some of the least trustworthy people out there.” I didn’t even know how to respond. Just sat there thinking, Why? What are we doing here? Why are we even trying to build something—if that’s how we see each other?

But then, as it so often does, the fog cleared.

Out of the blue, Sal and Raj signed up for a Family Membership. Not because they had to—just because they wanted to be part of something. They even offered to help with networking events and offered their kitchen as a cooking video set. No fuss.

And then Magrieta Louw, a South African expat and lawyer, signed up for a Gold Business Membership. She hasn’t even listed her business yet. She just wanted to support. No fanfare, no “what’s in it for me”—just a quiet gesture of backing the community.

And then there was Eric. What a legend. We met for coffee and chatted for ages—about the community, the history, and the long journey so many South Africans have taken to make Canada home. He’s 81, with a big, friendly smile and more energy than most people half his age. He handed me a stack of South African-Canadian business directories dating back to 1996—carefully kept and full of history.

It hit me right there: we’re not just starting something—we’re continuing a story that’s been unfolding for ages.

And of course, there’s all of you—reading this newsletter, reaching out, sharing kind words, showing up in ways big and small. It reminded me again: don’t focus on the negative. Don’t let it weigh you down. Who knows—maybe some people are just having a bad day. Maybe some people are just not lekker. But that’s not where we put our energy.

So I just want to say thank you. To every single one of you who reads this newsletter, who reaches out, who backs other Saffas, who shares a contact or a kind word or just makes someone feel a little less alone—you’re the reason this is worth it.

So yeah, this week started in a slump. But it ended with gratitude. A bit of boerewors by a river, some coffee with good company, and the reminder that no matter how rough a day can feel, this is all worth it.

In Today’s Newsletter

• Upcoming Events – From pub night to jazz, kerkdiens to culture fests—find something near you

• Saffa Spotlight – Daneka & Shaun trade city life for 4x4 trails and family adventure

• Okanagan, We’re Coming for You! 🇿🇦🍷 - Big market day happening Sept 20

• Quick Tax Reminder: What to know (and why you might even get money back)

Upcoming Events

We’ve got a lekker line-up coming your way! Tomorrow night (Monday) is the monthly South African pub night at Sailor Hagar’s. Then on April 24th, Tea for Three Thursdays at Baobab is back in Calgary. In Toronto, there’s a Tsotsi Cape Jazz Night coming up—yes, it’s happening, even if the pub staff still look confused when you ask them. On May 1st, Oleanna opens at The NEST on Granville Island—it’s not a South African play, but it stars South African actor Paul du Toit in his Vancouver debut, so we’re claiming it! There’s also an Afrikaanse Kerkdiens in Fort Macleod on May 3rd, and the big Festival Africa Québec takes place on May 16th.

Click through for all the details, and if there’s something near you—go support, go connect, and go say howzit!

Saffa Spotlight: Daneka & Shaun Go Off-Road

This week’s spotlight is on Daneka and Shaun, a South African couple who moved to Canada in 2021 with their four kids in tow. Yes, four. Legends.

We joined them for a bit of backcountry exploring (read: muddy shoes and stunning views) and chatted about their immigration journey, raising kids in a new culture, work culture shocks, finding your feet, and how off-roading became their unexpected way of reconnecting as a family.

They also started Griffin Off-Road, a little social project that’s grown into a whole vibe—showcasing BC’s wild beauty and reminding all of us that you don’t have to stay stuck in the city.

🎥 Watch the full video here: Daneka & Shaun’s Canadian 4x4 Adventure

Okanagan, We’re Coming for You! 🇿🇦🍷

Mark your calendars, maak ‘n plan, and get ready—because on September 20th, we’re bringing a proper South African Market Day to Kelowna!

Brett, one of our founding members, has been hard at work rallying the local SAFA community in the Okanagan. With support from the South African Institute of Canada (SAIC), he’s working to create something really special—a one-day celebration of South African flavour, flair, and community at a beautiful winery just outside Kelowna.

Expect family vibes, mountain views, games, a kids area, and a picnic space where you can kick back and enjoy all the lekker snacks and braaivleis that’ll be on offer.

We’re putting out the call to South African businesses across Canada: if you’re South African-owned or have a clear SA connection, we want you there! Booths are just $50, and this is your chance to connect with locals and fellow expats, show off what you do, and be part of something truly meaningful.

And it’s not just for Saffas—we’re inviting the wider Kelowna community too. It’s a chance to share our culture, food, and gees with our Canadian neighbours in the best possible way.

If you’re keen to set up a stall, help out, or just want to be there—reach out, spread the word, and let’s make it a big one.

📧 To reserve a booth or ask a question, email [email protected]

Quick Heads-Up: Tax Deadline Coming Up

If this is your first tax year in Canada, don’t stress. Here’s what you need to know:

The personal income tax deadline is April 30th. That’s when you’re supposed to file your return and pay any tax you might owe. If you’re self-employed, you’ve got until June 15th to file—but if you owe money, the payment still needs to be in by April 30th to avoid interest.

But here’s the key thing:

If you don’t owe anything, there’s no penalty for filing late. The CRA doesn’t charge interest unless you actually owe them money. And if you’re a salaried employee, chances are the government already deducted enough tax during the year—so you might actually be owed a refund.

So no, the world won’t end if you’re a few days late. But if you’re expecting money back (and most salaried folks are), the sooner you file, the sooner you’ll get that sweet, sweet tax refund.

You can use free online tools like SimpleTax (now Wealthsimple Tax) or TurboTax to file your return. You’ll need:

• Your T4 from your employer

• Your SIN number

• Any receipts for deductions (e.g. medical, RRSPs, donations, etc.)

And if you’re running a small business or have more complex stuff going on, we’ve already found a few South African-owned accounting businesses through HowzitCanada.ca that can help—especially if you need support with business taxes. Reach out if you want a referral.

That’s a Wrap

Some weeks feel long. Some days feel heavy. But don’t give your energy to the weight of it all. Focus on the good days. The small wins. The quiet kindness. The people who check in, and the moments that make you smile without even realising it.

There’s always something to hold onto—even if it’s just the reminder that you’re not alone, and there are people out there who genuinely care.

Hang in there. You’re doing better than you think.

Cheers,
Callie