SA expats share messages of hope

The recent civil unrest plunged parts of South Africa into chaos, with scenes of massive destruction, deadly violence and looting making international headlines.

Calm has since been restored and the country and her citizens are slowly picking up the pieces.

Expatriates living abroad kept a close eye on developments, with many concerned about the plight of their homeland.

The Herald reached out to former residents now living abroad, who shared the following messages not only to Brakpan residents but to all South Africans:

• Lauda (44) and Michelle Lizemore (42)

“My husband, Lauda, lived in Brakpan for over 10 years and myself for over 10 years too.

“I was born in Scotland but grew up in Brakpan and my husband is South African, and his family still lives in Brakpan.

“Our message to our friends and family who are still living in Brakpan and all over South Africa is our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

“We have faith that things in South Africa will come right by the grace of God. Stay safe and God bless you all.

“Our beloved country will rise from the ashes once again and the resilient people will rebuild once more.”

• Juan Koegelenberg (51)

“I was born in Brakpan and lived there from 1968 to 1993 when I moved abroad.

“I live on the Gold Coast of Australia.

“My message to the residents of Brakpan is to stay strong, not only during the world crisis of Covid-19 but also during the very uncertain times all South African citizens have to face during the very unnecessary riots, looting, arson and plundering in South Africa, which have made headline news around the world.

“I do not live in South Africa anymore, but I still think it is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. I always state to people abroad that I am from Brakpan and I say it with pride.”

• The Normington family, formally from Brenthurst and lived in Brakpan for approximately 30 years.

“We left South Africa five years ago and now live in England but have not lost touch with South Africa, our friends and family.

“We are saddened to see what’s happening in South Africa.

“To all our friends, family and fellow South Africans of every colour and creed, stay safe!

“You will get through this. South Africans always pull together in a time of need.”

• Philip Bester

Born and bred in Brakpan, the 29-year-old now lives in Hangzhou, Zhenjiang, China.

“It’s heartbreaking to see the current state of my country, knowing that my family and friends are the ones who are suffering.

“South Africa will always be my home, no matter where I am in the world.

“I saw some utterly disturbing videos and photos of total destruction, but if there’s one thing I know is that you

cannot destroy or break the sense of community we have in South Africa.

“Our people will always find a way to come together. Simunye. Ubuntu!”

• Felicia Healiss (50)

Lived in Brakpan for 25 years and now lives in Auckland, New Zealand.

“My message goes out to my family, friends and everyone in SA.

“Feeling sad and shocked about the recent events you all had to endure. Remember, God never fails, even when things seem impossible.

“Keep a positive attitude and be determined to move forward. Sending my love, best wishes and prayers to you all!”

• Roosmarie Harding (51) and her son, Jean-Pierre de Jager (25).

Roosmarie and Jean-Pierre lived in Brakpan for 20 years and now live on the Gold Coast of Australia.

“My message to my South African family and friends living in Brakpan and KwaZulu-Natal and all of South Africa.

“This past week, we saw destruction with looting, rioting and anarchy and this morning all over social media we experienced the communities standing with one another and rebuilding what has been destroyed.

“This is the spirit of ubuntu! South Africa standing up from the ashes. In our thoughts and prayers, our beloved country.

“This is what makes our country great.”

• Kyle Gordon

“I am 18 years old and was raised and lived in Brakpan for 10 years and now live in Linwood, Scotland.

“The recent riots and protests have made me pray for the first time in God alone knows how long.

“Never did I think the beautiful country I was born in would end up in this situation.

“My heart goes out to all who have been directly and indirectly affected by what’s going on, but as they always say, things get worse before they get better, and I believe that from this point on things will only get better for South Africa.

“You all have been through an incredibly tough time and for you all to still be here means something, so I will continue to pray until I no longer need to and will continue playing my bagpipes in support.

“By the way, make sure the British and Irish Lions don’t beat the Springboks at any point.”

• Chrissie Izett

The 80-year-old lived in Brakpan for 25 years and now lives in Linwood, Scotland.

“To everyone in Brakpan, all my family, friends and all people in SA, we are thinking of you during this time. Please stay safe.” 

• Ann Gordon (52)

Lived in Brakpan for 32 years and now lives in Linwood, Scotland.

“Being away doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt. Being away actually equates to another level of worry and anxiety.

“Being away means confusion and disbelief when receiving countless WhatsApps, TikToks and video footage of the country falling, cries of help and tears of our loved ones.

“Praying for protection over all of our precious people. Stay safe and take care of all our family and friends in Brakpan and South Africa.”

• Ceilidh Gordon (25)

“I lived in Brakpan for 17 years and am staying in Glasgow, Scotland.

“I am very sad to hear and see what is happening in SA. I know we can all work together to make it a safe and wonderful country to live in again.”

• Paula Koert (55)

Lived in Brakpan for 18 years and now lives in Australia.

“It’s incredible to see how South Africa has pulled together support, supplies and security for their neighbouring provinces.

“Hats off and so grateful that this amazing attitude is ever present deep in everyone’s hearts.

“God Bless South Africa!”

• Caroline McPhail

“I lived in South Africa for 35 years and 18 years in Brakpan.

“I was so heartsore to see the trials and devastation that the people of South Africa have had to go through last week.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to all concerned and I hope for a peaceful solution and for God’s provision for all those affected.

“I have now lived in the UK for 10 years but my heart will always be in my beloved South Africa.”

• Steven (31) and Magdel Weber (31)

Steven lived in Brakpan for 15 years and Magdel for five years.

They now live in Washington DC, USA.

“News about South Africa being hit by chaos and looting, as well as all the people directly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, always has a big personal impact on us although we are thousands of kilometers away.

“Not only are we concerned for the safety of our family and friends, but also the well-being of our country and nation.

“We pray for the safety, health and prosperity of the people in Brakpan and South Africa.

“Our hearts will always have a South African beat, not because we were born in South Africa, but because South Africa was born in our hearts!”