Five Years of Globetrotters: Our Most Uplifting Success Stories

Engineer Your Dutch Life with Us

This September marks a joyful milestone for Ir Olav's Globetrotters: our 5th anniversary! Since opening our doors in 2020, right in the middle of global uncertainty, we’ve helped more than 400 South Africans successfully relocate to the Netherlands and start a new chapter filled with growth, adventure and purpose.

We didn't just survive the pandemic... we grew from it. Remote work opened doors, and we embraced the flexibility that allowed candidates (we call them Globetrotters) to begin their Dutch careers from their homes in South Africa before setting foot on European soil. This unique start shaped the way we work: smart, human and adaptive. It also paved the way for our Deta-Vast model with a remote start option that offers our clients and Globetrotters more flexibility and certainty.

From Dreamers to Doers: Real Stories from Our Globetrotters

Here are just a few inspiring stories of candidates who chose to walk this journey with us so far:

Christiaan's Leap of Faith

"By far one of the best employers to have worked for! They really go the extra mile to get you a client with work that you actually enjoy. The process to move halfway across the world went so smoothly."

Jason's Perfect Fit

"They've gone above and beyond... not just sorting everything we needed to immigrate but really getting to know me. The company they matched me with was such a good fit! I'm still blown away by how amazing they've been."

Jaco's Journey to Joy

"From the very start, Diane and her incredible team went above and beyond. I felt well-supported and confident throughout my move. This journey became a positive and memorable experience."

A Lindeque and Pieter's Big Change

"Relocating and starting a new job was made so much easier by this caring team. Thank you for the amazing opportunity... They helped me achieve dreams I didn’t even think could become reality, without breaking a sweat."

We’ve captured their voices in video interviews, blog stories, and at events where laughter, relief, and excitement fill the air.

Beyond the Work: Life at Ir Olav's

Being a Globetrotter isn’t just about working abroad; it’s about finding your people. Our team is tight-knit, proudly South African, and full of personality. We embrace a blend of Dutch and South African office culture in the way we work and connect.

We also love staying connected with our Globetrotters. Whether it's a boat cruise through Amsterdam, a board games evening, or a virtual get-together that brings our community across continents together, we make time for celebration.

Our Promise to Future Globetrotters

Moving to the Netherlands isn’t always easy, and it’s not for everyone. But from your first step on this journey, with Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, you’ll never be alone. From visa paperwork to your first stroopwafel in Amsterdam, we're with you every step of the way.

We understand you because we are you. Everyone on our team (besides the managing partners, Sonja and Diane) is South African. We know what you’re giving up and what you’re dreaming of. And that’s what makes our success stories so powerful.

Join the Celebration

If you’ve been thinking about starting your Dutch life, there’s no better time. We’re not just celebrating 5 years — we’re celebrating hundreds of South Africans who dared to try.

Are you next? Apply to become a Globetrotter today and start your own success story.

Engineer Your Dutch Life!