I relocated from The Netherlands to South Africa in 2003, to widen my horizons and find more fertile ground for personal development and growth. It was during a holiday trip in 2002 that I became fascinated by South Africa. Not only because of the incredible diversity of scenic landscapes, wildlife and cultures, but also due to the dynamics of this society which finds itself in a relatively new political and social order. A society which needs to expand its economy to be able to underpin the creation of sufficient jobs and welfare.

I wanted to apply my skills and expertise in the ICT industry to the fascinating developments in this field in South Africa. I am a firm believer that efficient and effective use of ICT-solutions supports economic growth, which in turn fuels further social development.  Although initially looking for employment, I soon decided that being independent and entrepreneurial suited me much better. So I established Bamboo Rock and started working as an independent consultant with a number of private and public parties in the ICT sector. This not only gave me a better understanding of the SA telecommunications environment and its challenges, but also allowed me to settle in the beautiful, dynamic, at times incomprehensible, country that is South Africa.

Time to settle was important, because packing my bags and moving to another country, continent even, has had a much greater impact then I ever could have realised beforehand.  I left my comfortable life and extensive support system of friends and family for an exciting, but uncertain existence in a country which is so very different from my own. And why, because I listened to my heart, because I felt at home from my first visit, because I felt I could be so much more me and really contribute to society. And however many obstacles and challenges I’ve faced the past few years, I’ve never once doubted these beliefs or regretted my decision!

It has truly opened my mind, forced me to look beyond my own frame of reference, see the world from a different perspective. It has brought me so much awareness, understanding and acceptance of myself, other people and situations we find ourselves in. And that has helped me to find my footing in this wonderful country.

A country of contradictions, where opportunities are abundant, and so much progress has been made in terms of democracy and economic growth and which on the other hand faces the huge challenges of poverty, HIV/Aids and crime. Where I’ve found the humanity and compassion which at times seem lost in the Western world and where, just below the surface, the wounds from the violent past are still very present. 

I’ve reaffirmed my decision to be and live here, to be part of transformation and development. To expand the work of Bamboo Rock to include actual implementation of and participation in the solutions we develop. To closely co-operate with South Africans and combine my knowledge and thinking with the South African reality and together develop bespoke South African solutions.