Brendan Bester

It was the end of July that Brendan Bester emigrated to the Netherlands. Read more about his first experiences.

Brendan, why did you emigrate to the Netherlands?
I wanted to challenge myself both personally and professionally, and the Netherlands offered a strong economy, a high standard of living, and an excellent work-life balance. The opportunity to work in a stable, well-structured environment where innovation and efficiency are valued was a big draw. I also wanted the experience of living abroad, gaining exposure to new cultures, and broadening my career prospects in Europe.

Can you tell us something how you do like the Netherlands?
I’ve come to really appreciate how clean, green, and beautiful the Netherlands is. The well-maintained infrastructure stands out, and everyday life feels structured yet relaxed. Being able to cycle to work without worrying is a big plus. While using the trains between Arriva and NS has been a bit stressful as I’m still getting used to the system, overall public transport is efficient and reliable.

Please tell us something about the projects you are currently working on.
I’ve only been with Visser & Visser for a few days, but I’ve already jumped straight into the deep end with a client assignment. My role and responsibilities will form part of the international accounting team, giving me the opportunity to contribute to cross-border financial processes from the start.

Did the process of emigration go smoothly?
The process was intense but manageable thanks to thorough preparation. The fact that Aatop ICT / summit developers handled the major steps made it extremely easy. The guidance and availability throughout the process meant that everything actually happened smoothly and hassle-free. From securing my work opportunity to arranging the necessary documents, there were many steps, but having such consistent support and a clear process removed a lot of the stress.

That said, it was also an emotional journey. Saying goodbye to friends and family was incredibly difficult, even though they were all supportive and genuinely excited about my relocation. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with both anticipation for the opportunities ahead and the sadness of leaving loved ones behind.

Can you explain to the South Africans who are considering to go overseas how you did experience the support from us?
Looking back now, the support I received was exceptional and made the transition far easier than I expected. The summit developers team didn’t just guide me through the process, they actively took the weight off my shoulders by handling key steps and providing clear, timely communication. That level of responsiveness and hands-on assistance turned what could have been a stressful, uncertain move into a smooth, well-organised, and hassle-free experience.