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Dr Masimba Mavaza and Lean Chachoka
Living abroad is exciting and definitely something that many people die to do.
Many Zimbabweans have sold their livelihoods just to go abroad. Many have sold cars, houses and all their savings put on a trip abroad.
In your first few weeks, you would feel positive and excited in your new home.
But, sometimes, no matter how mentally strong you are, you will face challenges while living abroad that will make your life difficult.
Everything could be relatable to you, or you might be curious.
A Zimbabwean nurse in the UK, Ann Jonasi, said “This happened on my 12-hour night shift I was looking after a retired police officer who had been admitted as a patient in hospital,” said Jonasi.
“He asked for a glass of water and I advised him:’Mr Mcdonald could you sit up in bed so you can drink better’ as he was lying in bed and I was fully aware he would be capable to sit himself up.
“The man refused as he came across as stubborn. Just as I had warned, the water spilled on his chest and he was soaked. This not only gave me extra work of having to change his bed linen, but also delayed my drug round. I politely reminded him that had he listened we both would not be in this situation, him being wet and me to assist to getting him dry.
“The man with raging temper directed me to do my job: ‘That’s what you are paid for and if you finding it difficult go back to your own country’. On top of that he goes on to mock my English, he screamed: ‘I can’t understand a word you are saying’.
“I am enduring a busy shift and in return I receive this harassment. What was going in my mind at that very moment like the rapper Kanye West said I guess you will never know. In any case am at work and even outside work I was raised not to stoop down to another person’s level. This offensive statement often surfaces when a disagreement happens between a native and foreigner.
“It’s discourteous and racist, especially in this scenario when you are the professional and giving help to someone who is not in a position to do it themselves. From 20 years ago when I moved to this country: ‘Go back where you come from is a norm’.
“I always disapprove of this statement as I would do anything possible to go back to my beloved country . What are the reasons though that 20 years later I am still in the UK. Let’s start with my personal choice. I relocated for a reason to pursue a career. I came as a student and became qualified nurse. My goal plan was make money and to return.
“The same way we give up all to exit is now the same predicament of trying to reside back to Zimbabwe. However making this decision feels like you need to ask for permission to your family to return back to your homestead. Is this reasonable, unfortunately it’s always a lot of resistance with good intentions.
“Well I am not alone in this. Over the years I have met fellow Zimbabwean and we always wonder if we can go back. Is settling in a foreign country a comfortable option rather than home?”
My colleague Brenda sadly said: “I lost both parents and many relatives whilst here and going back to erect tombstones is too much sorrow I cannot bear. It is painful truth that whilst away you are missing on spending time with parents as well as grandparents.”
Tonde said: “I have laboured at two jobs to sustain bills in UK and family back home. All I envision is going back to Murehwa and the simple life back to my roots. That’s the only way to untangle myself from the life of bills.”
Adding to this is culture shock, a natural response to the unfamiliarity of your new surroundings and is definitely one of the most common challenges of living abroad.
It can manifest as confusion, frustration, or even homesickness.
For someone moving from the Zimbabwe, there can be a significant difference in societal norms and expectations.
For instance, the climate, food, language, and social behaviour may all vary. The accent is in itself a nightmare.
For those who went to Sweden they were shocked with the Swedish tradition of “fika” — a cosy coffee break with friends, complete with delightful pastries.
While you are still fresh from Zimbabwe ,you might need to adapt to new fashion styles, ways of communicating, and self-expression.
During this transition, it’s important to keep an open mind and explore new aspects of life while staying true to yourself. If you speak loudly they say you are aggressive.
With patience and effort, adjusting to a new culture can be a fulfilling journey that expands your horizons but sometimes you feel so unwelcome. So moving abroad requires a significant adjustment.
Language barriers can be one of the most frustrating challenges of living abroad.
It’s a natural part of living in a foreign country, especially for those who have not yet learned the local language and accent.
They can crop up in everyday situations, from ordering food at a restaurant to navigating public transportation or simply trying to make new friends.
Work cultures can vary significantly from one country to another. Factors such as communication styles, work hours, and business etiquette can all differ.
John Timba was surprised when he was told off for being too polite. He was told to stop calling people sir or madam. He was encouraged to call them by their first names.
Adjusting to a different work culture can be challenging, but it’s important to learn the local norms and expectations.
For instance, in some countries, punctuality is highly valued, while in others, a more relaxed attitude is expected.
It’s also important to adapt your communication style to fit the local work culture. In many countries, indirect communication is preferred, while in others, direct communication is the norm. On top of all this, one of the challenges of living abroad is obviously the distance from home and the emotional impact it can have on immigrants.
Online Reporter