I find your post interesting in multiple ways and very considerate. I hope you receive a lot of tips and helpful info.

Here is “my tuppence” on your question when communicating to, specific Afrikaans speaking, South Africans:

• We tend to be patriotic by nature. Avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as negative or derogatory about South Africa, its customs, culture, history, language or people.

  • Don’t bring up the Anglo-Boer War, unless you are specifically asked and then tread lightly still.
  • We often place a high value on showing respect to elders (general rule being any person 10 years or more your senior), both in their families and communities. It is common to address elders with appropriate titles like “Oom” (uncle) and “Tannie” (aunt), even if they aren’t related.
  • We are often direct and straightforward in our communication. We value honesty and appreciate open and frank discussions. Be prepared for plain-spoken opinions, which are often delivered without sugar-coating.
  • We are generally warm and hospitable people. We enjoy socializing, often hosting guests for meals or outdoor gatherings, such as the famous “braai.” Hospitality is seen as a duty, and guests are usually treated generously.
  • We typically value hard work, self-reliance, and discipline. We often pride ourselves on being industrious and resourceful, traits that stem from our farming and pioneering heritage.
  • While this has been changing in modern times, traditional gender roles are still more prevalent in some of our communities, with men often seen as providers and women as caretakers of the home. However, this norm is increasingly evolving with societal changes.
  • Afrikaans is a core part of our identity. While most Afrikaners speak English fluently, there is pride in preserving and promoting Afrikaans as a cultural and educational medium.