Meet Laverne Wyatt - Expat of the month

Are you curious who's the person behind the new, cool Expat Network Østfold logos and the company Onbrandia? Meet Laverne, an expat from South Africa, and read about her journey in Norway.

1. Personal Background & Journey

What inspired your decision to move to Norway?

I fell in love with a Norwegian guy while living in Malta. We did the long‑distance thing until he said he wanted to move to South Africa, and I agreed, but only after living in Norway for three years so we could travel Europe. Three years somehow turned into seventeen, and here I still am.

Was there a defining moment when you realized you wanted to live or work in Norway?

It took me around fifteen years to realize that this was where I wanted to build my life. Cultural adaptation was challenging for me, which is why I’m so empathetic toward others going through it. Now I have a wonderful network of friends and clients, and Halden truly feels like home.

2. Cultural Adaptation

What was the biggest cultural shock when you arrived?

The social aspect surprised me the most. Coming from warm weather and warm people, I wasn’t prepared for how much the climate affects social energy here. I often felt more outgoing than everyone else and had a bigger need for connection than what was naturally available.

Can you share a funny or awkward experience?

Absolutely. I’ve had many “lost in translation” moments. Once, while working late at an advertising agency, a male colleague offered me a “skyss” which means a lift. I absolutely panicked, saying "But you are married!" because I thought he said “kyss” meaning a kiss. The look on both our faces was priceless.

What do you miss most about home?

The natural openness. Back home we assume that strangers are interesting and worth connecting with, not a burden or a threat. I miss that everyday warmth without having to feel like I need to earn it.

3. Work & Career

How does the work culture in Norway compare to your home country?

I prefer the work culture here. There is a clear respect for family life and a healthier separation between work and home. Growing up, my parents were never able to stay home when we were sick, because they would lose pay or risk their jobs. We had a housemaid who took care of us instead. Today, being able to be with my kids when they need me is something I truly value.

What challenges have you faced in your career as an expat?

Speaking Norwegian in professional settings sometimes makes me sound slower or less direct, which can lead people to underestimate me, especially in boardmeetings where I am the only female, let alone, foreign female from Africa. And for some reason expats often start with less credibility by default, even though many of us bring international experience. I’ve always found that strange and a great loss of a valuable resource.

4. The Expat Network & Social Life

Have you been to any Expat Network events?

Yes. I attended the potluck event in Halden. I prefer events that involve families, because I want my kids to meet other expats and expat families too. Or else, that are about going on for a simple drink together to test the night life.

Are there any local traditions or events you look forward to?

I really enjoy events at Kulturhuset. That place, and the people connected to it, helped me find my community and happiness in Halden. Their New Year’s Silly Ball is something I always look forward to. And of course summers at the lakes are a favourite.

Which hobbies have you continued and which new ones have you picked up?

I’ve picked up paddling, water sports, road‑tripping and camping. We spend a lot of time at the lakes and along the Swedish coast.

5. Challenges & Advice for Other Expats

What’s the most difficult part of living abroad?

It depends on what you’ve had to sacrifice to be here. The closer your home country is, the easier it usually is to adapt. For me, coming from the opposite side of the world, the hardest part has been not seeing my big, loving family more than once every four years.

Is there anything you wish you had known before moving?

Many things. I often joke that I wish someone had given me a “wedding contract” explaining all the expat integration challenges ahead of me marrying and moving here. I might not have moved then. Now I use my story to help others find a network and feel less alone.

What advice would you give someone new to Østfold?

It’s easier to get to know locals in Østfold than in Oslo. I do advise learning Norwegian, because many people feel shy replying in English, here in Østfold. Join networks, both business and cultural, to make the region feel like home. And never complain about Norwegians to Norwegians. Trust me, it doesn’t work. 🙂

6. Looking Ahead

What’s next for you as an expat?

I’m focused on supporting organisations and businesses run by expats and creating more English‑language content for people who are still learning Norwegian but need a connection. Running my radio show, travelling Europe to interview Expat Founders and to continue to do branding strategy for businesses, are what I will continue with in 2026.

What are you most excited about for the future?

I finally have the network that makes this place feel like home. I’m excited to grow my business in ways that also give expats opportunities to intern or work with me and my clients. And I look forward to contributing to more great events and cultural experiences in Halden and growing my radio show, BrandWaves that is on Drammen Unlimited Radio, and also travelling Europe to interview more Expat Founders.

Bonus Question

If you could bring one thing from your home country to Norway?

Sunshine. 🙂