Cassidy Dauberman

Relocation Africa Appoints René Webster as General Manager

After 9 years within the Mobilitas Group, René Webster brings her people focused, hands on approach to propel Relocation Africa along a strong growth trajectory.

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA – 4 OCTOBER 2024

Relocation Africa is proud to announce that René Webster will be joining the business and bringing her analytical people focused approach to the team at our Head Office in Cape Town from October 2024 to scale the business into its next phase of growth, by combining her experience and skills with the reputation, processes and quality-centric services delivered by Relocation Africa to their clients for the past 31 years, so we become the Relocation Company of Choice in Africa.

When Relocation Africa started in 1994, to facilitate business flooding into the new South Africa, the entrepreneurial mother and daughter team of Rose and René Maytham could never have dreamt that 30 years later the business would be providing multiple mobility services across more than 30 countries across Africa. Although Rose left the business in the late 90’s, René and her husband, Andrew Stegmann, who joined the business in 2002, have grown the group to a point where it provides quality relocation, immigration, research, payroll and payment services to the mobility sector across Africa, however scaling a business requires different skills.

“Entrepreneurs can start business and grow revenue streams, but there are cleverer people with more structured and analytical skills that can accelerate the scaling of a business better than us.” says Andrew Stegmann, the MD of Relocation Africa. “We’re honoured to have someone of Webster’s experience and standing in the industry joining us to help scale into the future.” he finishes – showing the first hints at the new challenges they will be facing: how do they refer to the two René’s now leading in the business without getting mixed up.

René Stegmann and René Webster have always shared a mutual respect for each other, even as competitors, and have both helped shape the global mobility industry across Africa. Their shared passion for the continent and commitment to service excellence makes René Webster’s joining a natural fit, especially with her deep relationships globally and her extensive knowledge of the industry in Africa.

With René Webster on board, René Stegmann will step into a new role as Head of Strategy, which includes integrating ESG principles and leveraging technology to meet not only the client’s evolving needs, but also focused alignment with the global SDG’s. “Anyone who knows me, will understand how excited I am to be able to focus more time and energy on ESG. It’s a privilege having someone of René’s calibre joining our team, and even more so now that we’ve been chatting, I understand more how passionate she is too about sustainability and focusing on the SDG’s 2030 Agenda. The future is bright, for Relocation Africa”, she says confidently.

Having had a few months off, René Webster is rejoining the industry with a refreshed commitment and energy to provide inspiring leadership to the team at Relocation Africa. In the coming weeks, she will immerse herself in understanding the systems and processes that Relocation Africa employs to deliver exceptional services to clients. Following this, she will collaborate to design and implement a growth strategy that will maximise success for Relocation Africa’s clients into the future.

With a sparkle in her eye, René Webster says: “I’m incredibly excited to join Relocation Africa, mostly because of the amazing people here.” Anyone who knows me understands that I firmly believe success is driven by the strength of the team you’re part of, and I can already see how special this team is. I can’t wait to contribute to and grow with them as we take the business to new heights.

Cassidy Dauberman

Encouraging Empowerment Through Work Shadowing: From A Human Resources Viewpoint

In the contemporary business world we thrive in today, we are convinced that empowerment is not simply a matter of the individual’s growth. It involves nurturing the environment so that every person can thrive. This year, rather than merely focusing on our team, we are also looking at our community as showcased by our recent work shadow initiative. Namita, who spent two days with us in the office, experienced firsthand how our commitment to empowerment stretches beyond our organisation to make a positive impact on our community.

Her introduction to work shadowing began with us . The moment Namita entered our office, she was enthusiastically welcomed and instantly felt the togetherness that we as a team had with each other. We are committed to diversity and therefore, each person is made to feel valued.

“One thing that amazed me was their kindness.” Namita exclaimed, saying that they made me feel as if I belonged to the place instead of just giving me a tour around.

She echoed the organisational culture that was the wisdom of our team and the caring environment. Thus, by Namita’s side, not only did she acquaint herself with the different departments and team members, but she also participated in some of the discussions regarding her future career path. This collaborative approach, led by a structured itinerary crafted by HR, offered her valuable insights into our operations.

Our vision is clear – to be the relocation company of choice in Africa. This vision does not only explain our activities but also describes what our clients and the whole community will be like when they are with us – supported, valued, and empowered.

Our core values, i.e., Embrace Change, Uncompromising Ethics, Consider the Person, and I do it, I own it! Help in shaping our organisations culture. These values are the principles by which we live and interact with each other. They inform our behaviours and relationships, guaranteeing that every choice and initiative aligns with our commitment to excellence and responsibility.

Namita’s time with us was not just about a 2 day job shadow in the workplace; it was about taking part in a culture that values empowerment. As we continue to expand, our commitment towards empowering others through support activities like mentorship, community engagement, or sustainable business practices, will stay.

Work shadowing programs, in which people like Namita get to gain empowerment and our organisation becomes enhanced along with the community connections. Subsequently, we are looking forward to keeping environments that are not only supportive but, most importantly, beacons of empowerment that we do together as a team.

Owning empowerment as a strategic focal point this year, Relocation Africa does not only heighten individual experiences but also promotes a culture of inclusivity and growth which is echoed throughout the organisation and beyond.

 

Written by Cassidy Dauberman

Cassidy Dauberman

A Personal Story from Our Marketing Associate – Moving Back Home to South Africa as an Expat

A Journey of Reflection

In the midst of a global pandemic, with uncertainty looming, I made a spontaneous decision that would alter the course of my life: I moved to the United Kingdom. Leaving behind sunny South Africa. I embarked on a journey into the unknown. I boarded the plane, excitement mingled with doubt, but I thought to myself there was no turning back now, as I had left with the mindset that I was not returning to South Africa.

I recall the exhilarating chill that welcomed me as I stepped off the plane, invigorating me to embrace the new adventures ahead, a stark contrast to the warmth I was accustomed to my whole life up until then. Despite the uncertainties, I was determined to make it work. Settling in the city centre, I navigated through closed streets due to lockdown and snowy sidewalks, adapting to a lifestyle vastly different from what I had known.

As lockdown restrictions lifted and life began to normalise, I couldn’t shake the feeling of longing for home. The cultural differences, the absence of familiar food, and most importantly, the yearning for family weighed heavily on my heart. Despite making great friends and building a life in the United Kingdom, I felt a sense of displacement, a longing for the belonging I once felt back home. Africa is a feeling. I cherished the sense of liberation, strolling through the streets without constraints, exploring local parks, utilising public transport, all while feeling reassured by the safety and security around me. Amidst all the opportunities, there were certainly challenges to embrace. Personally, navigating through the enriching experience of culture shock, a phenomenon no one warns you about, stood out as challenging, offering unexpected lessons and growth along the way.

A year into life in the United Kingdom, I made a visit back to South Africa to see family — a bittersweet reminder of the world I had left behind. The visit offered a meaningful glimpse into the essence of my roots. The vibrant beaches, the diversity of cultures, the boundless expanse of the ocean—each facet – resonated with a sense of home that the United Kingdom couldn’t quite replicate Africa, with its lasting mark on the soul, left me spellbound once more.

Upon return to the United Kingdom from the visit, bidding farewell proved to be the most challenging it had ever been—far surpassing my initial departure. Nevertheless, resuming life, continuing to nurture the life meticulously crafted in the United Kingdom. However, as the months went by, a palpable sense of longing enveloped me, a yearning for South Africa that became a constant presence in my thoughts, sparking regular contemplations of what life would be like back home.

The decision to return was certainly not made lightly. Months and months of contemplation, weighing the positives and negatives, led to one undeniable truth: there is no place like home. The pull of family, the richness of culture, the warm weather and the sense of belonging were irreplaceable.

On my return journey to South Africa, I pondered the invaluable lessons obtained from my time abroad. Embracing discomfort, confronting challenges directly, and cherishing fleeting moments of happiness profoundly shaped both my personal and professional growth. Not a single ounce of regret spoils my experiences. I genuinely savoured my time in the United Kingdom and all it offered. In fact, I wholeheartedly advocate for anyone with the chance to explore new horizons to seize the opportunity and embrace the journey.

For anyone considering a move, I offer these words of advice: do your research, brace yourself for culture shock, and allow yourself to feel the full spectrum of emotions. You will have good and bad days. Engage with your community, step out of your comfort zone, and seek support from Destination Service Providers. Push yourself to be brave and adventurous. Explore as you go and give yourself time to adjust to your new normal.

Every country has its pros and cons. Since moving and returning, I have a new outlook on South Africa because I learned to appreciate small things. On paper, South Africa is not a perfect country. I don’t blame people for leaving. The problem is, most people think the act of leaving is the solution, when really all they’re doing is trading one set of pros and cons for another.

Sometimes one can be too focused on what they don’t like about their home country while simultaneously taking the amazing aspects for granted. You only really understand the true value of these overlooked qualities when you’re on the other side of the world for a while. The problem is, once you’re in a new country, and once the rose-tinted glasses come off, there will be many other things you don’t like on that side of the world too.

The advice I will dish out is, make sure you relocate for the right reasons. Moving away may indeed be the best thing that you have ever done. I think the reason for this is simple. When you move, you will love it or hate it over time, depending on what you value. But again, you never just value one thing. And this is often why moving can be challenging.

Like most of us, I value safety, but I also value that warm South African spirit and friendliness, which is what makes it hard to live elsewhere.

I had a fantastic journey in the United Kingdom and am forever grateful to be able to explore and visit other countries whilst living there, but as for now, settling back into the familiar rhythm of life, my heart is filled with gratitude for the experiences gained and the memories made. Home truly is where the heart belongs, and for me right now, that is in South Africa.

 

Since moving back to South Africa, I have been delighted to be part of a team specialising in mobility, immigration, remuneration, and research services. I’ve gained invaluable insights into relocation and expatriate life—knowledge I wish I had possessed earlier. If you’re seeking guidance or information on relocating or any related queries, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to offer support and assistance every step of the way, helping you embrace the unknown.

https://www.relocationafrica.com

Connect with me here

 

Written by Cassidy Dauberman

Cassidy Dauberman
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Mali – Travel Guide

Facts to assist you when travelling to Mali 

 

Mali population 

  • 23.3 million  

Capital and Largest City 

  • Bamako. 

Official Language(s) 

  • French. 

Currency 

  • West African CFA franc. 

Office Hours 

  • 07:30 – 16:00. 

Weekend 

  • Saturday – Sunday. 

Time Zone 

  • UTC.  

Calling Code 

  • +223. 

Tipping 

  • If a service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is acceptable. 

Embassies 

  • Most countries are represented by embassies or consulates located in the capital city. 

Government 

  • Colonel Assimi Goïta has been interim President of Mali as of 28 May 2021.  

Climate 

  • Mali is known to be one of the hottest countries in the world! The thermal equator, which matches the hottest spots year-round on the planet based on the mean daily annual temperature, crosses the country. Most of Mali receives negligible rainfall, and droughts are very frequent. Late June to early December is the rainy season in the southernmost area. During this time, flooding of the Niger River is common, creating the Inner Niger Delta. During the hottest season of the year, temperatures are high throughout the country. Timbuktu, Taoudenni, Araouane, Gao, Kidal, Tessalit are some of the hottest spots on Earth during their warmest months. 

Transport 

  • The main airport in Mali is the Lilongwe International Airport, located in Lilongwe. Mali’s transportation infrastructure is regarded as poor, even by regional standards, and deficiencies have limited economic growth and development. Mali has one railroad, including 729 kilometres in Mali, which runs from the port of Koulikoro via Bamako to the border with Senegal and continues on to Dakar. Mali’s main economic link to the coast is a paved road between Bamako and Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire. Because rate of automobile ownership is low, and formal government run public transit is sparse, informal buses and taxis abound in Malian urban centres. 

Economy 

  • Mali’s main industries include mining, manufacturing, and agriculture. 

Hospitality 

  • A common gesture in Mali that foreigners might not be familiar with, and might confuse them, is pursing your lips and making a buzzing sound, which means “nothing.” Unlike in western societies where burping is considered rude, in Mali, burping is considered a sign that one has enjoyed their meal. Often times, the cook or host will even consider burping a compliment. It is also impolite to shake hands or to eat with the left hand. 

Greetings 

  • Men shake hands when greeting one another. It is common to put your right hand to your chest, and this is a sign of respect. When meeting with longtime friends a hug is the common form of greeting. Women also shake hands with other female strangers and acquaintances. A verbal hello is appropriate as well. Close female friends will hug one another. It is not appropriate for people of the opposite sex to shake hands or hug. In such a case, a verbal greeting will suffice.  

Money 

  • The currency of Mali is the West African franc (XOF). The XOF is also the currency of six other independent states in Western Africa, such as Benin, Guinea-Bissau, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Mali, Niger, Senegal and Togo. 

Transportation 

  • Foreign visitors who want to drive in Mali must have valid drivers license issued by the country of their residence. Driving in Mali is on the right-hand side of the road, and the minimum age for driving is 21. It is not permitted to use a handheld mobile phone whistle driving, and drivers caught doing this will face consequences accordingly. Driving under the influence of alcohol is also prohibited. 

Safety 

  • Mali is a developing African country and is one of the poorest countries in the world. Due to its high levels of poverty, Mali also has high crime rates and is therefore not a particularly safe country. Transport isn’t safe in Mali as Malian roads and vehicles are often unsafe and unreliable. Some drivers can be reckless and ignore traffic signs, and at random times there can also be cattle roaming on the roads. Visitors should be careful about displaying wealth or any belongings in public. Avoid walking unaccompanied in Mali altogether, be it during day or night. 

Culture 

  • Mali is home to many different tribes and ethnic groups. The largest of these groups is the Bambara, which accounts for 31% of the population. Other smaller ethnic groups include the Fula Macina, Soninke, Sanghai, and the Dogon (5%). Mali is a Muslim country. Approximately 90% of the country’s population ascribe to the Sunni Muslim faith. Minority religions in Mali include Christianity, most of which identify with the Catholic or Protestant denominations.  

Shops 

  • Due to it being a poor nation, Mali unfortunately does not have many grand modern shopping malls and amenities like that of which can be found in western countries. However, the country does have a number of supermarkets and shops where locals and visitors can get everything they need. 

 

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