A Wonderful New Way of Life

Stepping into the United States as an Amerikaner means embracing a new culture while holding onto the traditions that define our identity. After leaving South Africa, where cultural shifts and economic challenges like the 2024 downturn made life uncertain, the U.S. offers a vibrant, diverse society to join. Understanding American culture and language—and weaving in Afrikaner heritage—creates a bridge to a fulfilling life as an Amerikaner. Let’s dive into what this cultural transition looks like and how to navigate it with confidence.

American Culture: What to Expect

American culture is a rich tapestry, shaped by history, diversity, and a spirit of independence, offering both differences and similarities to South African life.

Diversity and Inclusivity

With 345 million people in 2025, the U.S. is a melting pot—14% are immigrants, totaling 48 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This diversity means Afrikaners can find community in states like Texas or Colorado, where immigrant festivals, such as Dallas’s Cultural Fest in 2025, celebrate global traditions. Americans value inclusivity, often greeting newcomers with curiosity—expect questions like, “Where are you from?” at a local diner, opening doors to share stories of South Africa.

Work Ethic and Independence

Americans admire hard work, much like the Afrikaner value of “deursettingsvermoë” (perseverance). Showing up early to a job on a farm in Iowa, or taking initiative to fix a fence without being asked, earns respect. In 2025, this cultural trait is evident in the rise of “gig economy” jobs—freelance work like driving for Uber—where self-reliance shines, offering Afrikaners flexible income options while establishing themselves.

Holidays and Traditions

Americans celebrate holidays like Thanksgiving (November 27 in 2025) with family feasts—turkey and pumpkin pie are staples, but adding a dish like “pap en sous” can blend traditions. July 4th, Independence Day, is marked by fireworks and barbecues, similar to South Africa’s braais, making it easy to join in while sharing Afrikaner recipes like boerewors. In 2025, many communities are hosting “Unity Days” post-holidays, encouraging immigrants to share their customs, a perfect chance to introduce Afrikaner heritage.

Social Norms

Americans are generally friendly but value personal space—handshakes are common, not hugs, unlike the warmer South African greetings. Tipping is expected—15-20% at restaurants, so a $20 meal means adding $3-$4. In 2025, digital tipping via apps like Venmo is rising, but cash is still appreciated in rural areas where Afrikaners often settle.

Language: Navigating English in the U.S.

English is the primary language in the U.S., but Afrikaner accents and phrases can add a unique flavor to communication while adapting to American norms.

American English Basics

American English differs from South African English—here, a “boot” is a “trunk,” and “petrol” is “gas.” Spelling varies too: “colour” becomes “color,” and “organise” is “organize.” Practicing these differences helps in daily life, like filling out forms at the DMV or chatting with coworkers on a farm in Nebraska. In 2025, free language apps like Duolingo have added “American English for Immigrants” modules, tailored for newcomers.

Afrikaner Phrases to Share

While adapting to English, sharing Afrikaner phrases can build connections. Saying “lekker” (nice) when enjoying a meal at a neighbor’s barbecue, or explaining “braai” as a South African barbecue, sparks curiosity. Some Afrikaners in Texas have taught locals to say “baie dankie” (thank you very much) during cultural exchange events in 2025, fostering mutual understanding.

Improving English Skills

Many communities offer free ESL classes—check libraries or community centers in places like Atlanta. Watching American TV shows, like “Yellowstone,” which portrays rural life, helps with slang and accents. In 2025, PBS launched a new series, “American Voices,” featuring immigrant stories, including Afrikaners, to help with language learning while showcasing cultural integration.

Handling Misunderstandings

Afrikaner accents might lead to occasional misunderstandings—someone might not catch “ja” (yes) at first. Speaking slowly and using simple phrases helps, and most Americans are patient. If a boss in California mishears instructions, a quick clarification like, “I meant I’ll finish the task by noon,” smooths things over. Online forums in 2025, like Reddit’s r/ImmigrantLife, offer tips from other Afrikaners on navigating these moments.

Blending Cultures: Tips for Afrikaners

Merging Afrikaner traditions with American culture creates a rich, dual identity that honors the past while embracing the future.

Share Afrikaner Traditions

Host a braai for neighbors, serving boerewors and malva pudding alongside American burgers. In 2025, Afrikaner communities in Florida organized “Braai Days,” inviting locals to taste South African flavors, which led to new friendships and even a local restaurant adding boerewors to its menu.

Join American Activities

Participate in local events like county fairs—think of the Iowa State Fair in 2025, with its tractor pulls and pie contests. Entering a baking contest with a melktert (milk tart) introduces Afrikaner flavors while joining the fun. These events are great for meeting people and feeling part of the community.

Teach Your Kids Both Cultures

Help children learn American traditions—like trick-or-treating on Halloween (October 31)—while teaching them Afrikaner songs like “Sarie Marais” at home. In 2025, some Afrikaner families in Colorado started after-school cultural clubs, teaching kids both American history and South African heritage, ensuring they grow up proud of their dual identity.

Stay Connected to Afrikaner Roots

Celebrate days like Heritage Day (September 24) with a small family gathering, even if it’s not a U.S. holiday. Online Afrikaner groups, like the 2025 virtual “Afrikaner Heritage Festival” on Zoom, connect resettled families across states, sharing recipes and memories to keep traditions alive.

Creating a Cultural Home

Embracing American culture while sharing Afrikaner heritage builds a bridge to a new life where both identities thrive, creating a home that feels both familiar and exciting.

Take small steps—learn a few American phrases each day, share a South African dish at a potluck, and join local events to connect with neighbors. As Amerikaners, this cultural blend is a chance to honor the resilience of the past while building a vibrant future in the U.S.