Immigration is rarely just about visas, jobs or new houses; it’s also about identity, belonging and resilience.
Few understand this better than Wanda Voight, owner of Nova Home Lovers in Virginia and founder of the women’s support group South African Ladies of Virginia Empowerment.
Combining her background as a psychotherapist with her passion for real estate and community, Wanda shares her insights on the emotional challenges South Africans face when moving to the US, and how to build a life filled with strength, connection and hope.
The emotional impact of immigration
Wanda explains that immigrating from South Africa to the US can be a life-changing experience, but it often comes with a complex emotional journey, including:
Grief and loss: Leaving behind family, friends and familiar communities can feel like a form of mourning, and many experience a loss of identity when cultural norms and traditions no longer surround them.
Culture shock: Everyday differences, from humour and social expectations to driving styles and shopping habits, can feel overwhelming at first.
Loneliness and isolation: Without a strong support network, new immigrants often feel disconnected. Building meaningful friendships takes time, and the early months can be emotionally taxing.
Anxiety and uncertainty: From visas and healthcare to employment and housing, navigating unfamiliar systems can create stress and constant worry about stability.
Identity conflict: Many South Africans feel caught between two worlds, not fully at home in either, and sometimes struggle with imposter syndrome.
Resilience and growth: Over time, however, the challenges can foster resilience, adaptability and confidence, opening the door to new opportunities and a sense of community.
Tips for emotional well-being
To help ease the transition, Wanda recommends:
- Staying connected with loved ones through calls, messages and visits.
- Finding community by joining expat groups or multicultural organisations.
- Practising self-care, whether through therapy, journaling, pets, travel, mindfulness or time in nature.
- Celebrating your culture by cooking traditional meals, speaking your home language and sharing customs with new friends.
A client-centred approach to relocation
Wanda brings her dual expertise to her business.
“Nova Home Lovers is not only about helping you sell, buy, invest or rent real estate. I have combined my years of psychotherapy experience with my passion for real estate and helping others relocate to create a client-centred, compassionate approach to the complexities of moving out of your comfort zone.
“My relocation coaching programme is created with each client’s unique situation in mind, giving them step-by-step guidance and resources to make their journey calmer and more enjoyable, especially when relocating with kids and pets.”
Life in the US: The good and the difficult
For Wanda, the highlight of her American life has been watching her daughter flourish.
“She has become the strong, independent, happy human she was meant to be. Of course, I believe she would have flourished in Africa too – success depends on determination and persistence, not geography.”
She also treasures life with her husband, describing him as her rock. But despite the joys, homesickness remains ever-present.
“My heart is constantly torn between Africa and America. That feeling never goes away, especially if you still have family in Africa. My dream is to retire in Namibia, spending time here during the warm months and in Africa when it’s summer there.”
This blend of professional expertise and personal honesty is what makes Wanda’s story resonate with so many. She not only helps South Africans find homes in the US, but also offers them a sense of belonging, a reminder that while immigration brings loss and challenge, it can also bring growth, resilience and the strength of community.
