Rohan Serfontein

Rohan lives in the Netherlands since June 2020.

Rohan, why did you emigrate to the Netherlands?
In the last few years I’ve fallen in love with Europe, the languages, the cultures and the prospect of a life. One of my aspirations is to travel throughout Europe, and living here makes it very easy. I wouldn’t have to plan months ahead of time if I want to visit another country to experience it. The sights and attractions are a few hours away. Moving to the Netherlands specifically has to do with where I will be able to adapt quickest. As far as language goes, Dutch is very easy, compared with something like Polish or Finnish. It is also the most likely country you’ll hear South Africans go to.

Can you tell us something how you do like the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is simply amazing. The way things are done here makes it easy to enjoy things, such as going for a bike ride and doing grocery shopping. The dedicated bike lanes are a blessing for any cycling enthusiast. The biggest difference between here and South Africa will definitely be the sense of safety while being out and about. Especially where I live at the moment. I can leave my bicycle outside while I’m busy in the shops without having to chain it up. The other difference that is very apparent, is the day-night cycle. I’m used to the sun going away at 6 PM, but here it hangs around until 10.

Please tell us something about the projects you are currently working on
My current project is a web application for a pension company. We’re using a JavaScript stack, with Vue.js for the frontend and Node.js and Express for the backend. The project is to ensure better compliance with legislation regarding pension products and the associated documents; making those available to the customers in a transparent manner. I’m working as a consultant, so I get to see other offices and work with different people, which is a nice way for things to stay new.

Did the process of emigration go smoothly?
The emigration process went smoothly, for the most part. I came during the Corona virus crisis and had some issues getting a flight. The day I came would be a little different, I had a repatriation flight and a lot of arrangements to make for getting to the airport. I think that I will adapt and fit in around here relatively quickly.

Can you explain to the South Africans who are considering to go overseas how you did experience the support from us?
There is no better way of coming to the Netherlands than through summit developers. There is a lot of knowledge and experience about the relocation process. Ton and Matthijs handled it very well, even when things got a little difficult during the Corona related situation in South Africa.