Everyone talks about how emotional it is to move back.
Few people talk about what it’s actually like.

Returning to Africa after years abroad is not just about changing countries. It’s about navigating a whole new rhythm — professionally, socially, even personally. It’s exciting, meaningful, and deeply fulfilling. But also confusing, slow, and sometimes isolating.

So let’s talk about the parts no one warns you about.

It takes more than a plane ticket

You land, and reality hits. You're technically "home," but everything feels different.

• The work culture might shock you: pace, processes, hierarchy.
  
  
• You’ll need to rebuild your professional network — almost from scratch.
  
  
• You'll realize you know very little about the real cost of living, housing systems, or healthcare setups.
  
  
• You may feel like a foreigner — in the place you used to call home.
  
  

Coming back is not just about logistics. It’s about mindset. And without support, that transition can feel disorienting.

People might not get your choice

Prepare to hear:

• “Why would you leave your salary abroad to struggle here?”
  
  
• “You think your foreign degree will save you?”
  
  
• “You’ve changed.”
  
  

Coming back means redefining success on your own terms. And sometimes, that means accepting that not everyone will understand — at least, not right away.

That’s why community matters. You need to surround yourself with people who’ve made the same leap and who see the value in it.

The return teaches you resilience

It won’t be perfect. You will:

• Get frustrated with systems and slowness
  
  
• Question your decision
  
  
• Miss how “easy” life was abroad sometimes
  
  
• Wonder if you’re still qualified
  
  

But you'll also gain:

• Perspective
  
  
• Local wisdom
  
  
• Emotional depth
  
  
• A new sense of alignment
  
  

And above all, you’ll prove to yourself that you’re capable of building here, not just adapting “there.”

You don’t have to do it alone

That’s where Passerelle Africa comes in.
We connect returnees with mentors who have already made the move — and who can help you prepare, adapt, and build.

Not to tell you what to do. But to remind you that:

• You’re not behind.
  
  
• You’re not lost.
  
  
• You’re just in transition — and you’re not alone.
  
  

Thinking of moving back?

You don’t need all the answers yet. But if you have the will, the vision, and the intent to act, we can help you build the rest.