From South Africa to the UK: Bosman’s Story

My role in South Africa

Before moving to the UK, I was living in South Africa, where I grew up and trained to become an audiologist. I completed my degree in audiology at the University of Pretoria and graduated in 2015. In South Africa, we are required to do one year of community service in a state hospital, which I completed successfully.

Following that, I worked for a wholesale company, managing accounts and serving as an in-house audiologist for a company that distributed hearing aids and medical equipment across southern Africa. My experience spanned five years, during which I also gained exposure to the retail chain, working as a clinical audiologist mainly in paediatric audiology.

The process of moving to the UK

The journey to the UK began when I got in touch with Dylan at Specsavers, who connected me with the director of the store where I currently work. The process took some time, but eventually, I made it over in 2022. Initially, I explored opportunities in Ireland, but even thought that didn’t work out, Dylan was incredibly supportive, keeping me informed about available positions and ensuring I was up-to-date with the latest opportunities.

I interviewed with several companies, but Specsavers stood out due to their focus on hiring people based on their character and potential, rather than just their skills. The openness and ease of communication with the HR team, along with the connection I felt with one of the directors who also moved from South Africa, made Specsavers the right choice for me.

Support from Specsavers with relocation

The support I received from Specsavers during the relocation process was exactly what I need. They made it clear from the beginning that they would support me with moving expenses and visa applications through solicitors. The process was lengthy, mainly due to administrative requirements in South Africa, such as obtaining HCPC registration, medical checks, and police clearance. However, Specsavers' patience and understanding made the process more manageable. They also helped me find a place to stay initially, which was crucial as it’s difficult to do without a bank account and help you settle in more easily. The relocation expenses being reimbursed also alleviated some of the stress that comes with such a significant move.

What the future holds

Moving from South Africa to the UK has significantly improved my quality of life. The UK offers a different lifestyle, and if you are open to experiencing new cultures and countries, I highly recommend making the move. The public transport system is excellent, making it easy to commute without the need for a car. Specsavers has been incredibly supportive, and I am now looking forward to applying for indefinite leave to remain in the UK. I also plan to explore the business ownership opportunities with Specsavers, which would allow me to own shares in the company and have more control over my career. The future looks promising, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead!