Michelle Naicker is the Secretary General of the South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA, a role she took up in August 2021, with a focus on growing the South African business network and community in the USA.


Michelle Naicker is the Secretary General of the South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA, a role she took up in August 2021, with a focus on growing the South African business network and community in the USA.

When Lara Burger (24) completed her matric in 2016, she opted to go on an adventure to au pair in America for a year before she made final future plans. She never planned on becoming a US citizen, but love has got a way of changing lives forever. Lara shared her story with Saffa Mag from Minneapolis, Minnesota where she now lives.

Moira Henkel’s life story is the stuff movies are made of. When Saffa Mag interviewed the driving force behind Fumana International Wine Imports, we got so much more than a story of business success and perseverance. It was a moving tale of how she turned adversity into opportunity.

Four years ago, Francois Swart from Klerksdorp decided to make the bold move to go work on a Texas farm, leaving his wife, Laurika and two daughters, Zetske (4) and Janke (9 months), behind. His inspiring story has since helped many other young South African men who choose the United States of America to build a better, more financially secure future for their families. His journey is captured on his social media accounts, and he has become a hit with young men considering the same move. Saffa Mag spoke to the couple about their journey.

Behind every strong man, you will find a strong woman. Dr Khalilah Camacho-Ali, wife of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, proudly claims that the boxing legend couldn’t have done it without her support. She shared her story with Saffa Mag during a recent visit to South Africa in January. Khalilah lives in Atlanta, USA and spent time in SA to help promote the movie, “Against All Odds”. The film will reflect the life of boxing legend Gerrie Coetzee.

You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them – Maya Angelou. Emigrating to another country is a taxing experience. But, when strong women unite, they can overcome any adversity.

It was a busy festive season and start to 2022 for the Fumana International team. A red-carpet event in December showcased the latest selection of South African wines fit for the holiday season.

South Africans were flying the flag high at the recent International Fair held at the University School of Nashville. The team of proud South Africans represented culinary delights like mini bunny chows and little haystacks (coconut and chocolate).

Zoosh up your home with beautiful décor and handcrafted goods from Southern African artists. Ithemba Creations imports and retails handcrafted, ethically sourced, and traded, products from Southern African artisans. Ithemba is the Zulu word for hope. Each piece tells a story. South Africa is known as the rainbow nation of the world and Ithemba’s hope is that each item brings consumers joy.

You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them – Maya Angelou.

The Fumana Wine for the Holiday Masquerade Ball was a glitzy, glammy affair where the best food, wines and entertainment were served to patrons.

Once a darling of South African TV, Nadia Bilchik remains a beloved public figure in Atlanta, which has been her home for 25 years. By Allison Cooper

In Lorton Virginia, Saffas had their dancing shoes on when they recently celebrated Heritage Day. There was plenty to eat, but for new Saffa friends, it was a wonderful opportunity to mingle and share their love of SA traditions.