A Journey That Started With an Online Community
Twenty-five years ago, when Didier founded Nomad Consulting, his first project wasn’t corporate or technical. It was personal.
He helped build Springbok Online, one of the earliest virtual communities dedicated to South Africa for people in Belgium and the Netherlands. Long before the age of social networks, Springbok Online provided local insights, travel information, curated recommendations, and a digital meeting point for anyone fascinated by South Africa.
It was passion work, created with a group of close friends, even earning media attention at the time. And though it wasn’t financially driven, it laid the foundation for Didier’s long-term connection to the country.
A Deep Affection for South Africa
Over the years, frequent trips, time spent in Somerset West, and personal ties deepened Didier’s relationship with South Africa. What began as curiosity evolved into genuine appreciation, not only for the landscapes but for the people, the culture, and the entrepreneurial spirit he encountered.
As his bond with the country grew, so did his desire to support meaningful local initiatives.
Supporting Entrepreneurs and Creators
Didier has always believed that entrepreneurship is one of the strongest drivers of opportunity on the continent. Over the years, he has supported various initiatives, not only in South Africa but across Africa.
One story that captures this well is his support for Cape Town Hikes, the guiding company of his good friend Eric McLaren.
Eric recently published Thirty Times Down: A Hiker’s Guide to the Fish River Canyon Trail—a practical, story-rich guide based on more than 30 descents into one of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. It is the type of work that blends passion, experience, and entrepreneurship, values Didier deeply admires.
Supporting Eric’s book launch feels, to Didier, like supporting the heart of African entrepreneurship:
people who turn their lived experiences into purposeful, creative ventures.
Giving Back: Supporting Healthcare in Benin
Didier’s engagement with Africa has never been limited to business. Over the years, he has also contributed to social and humanitarian projects, one of the most meaningful being Stichting Hubi & Vinciane.
This Belgian-led volunteer organisation works with local teams in Benin to improve healthcare, nutrition, and sustainable development in the Borgou-Parakou region. They aim to fulfil the dream of founders Hubi Adriaens and Vinciane Van Assche by supporting hospitals and building long-term, ethically responsible initiatives that improve everyday life.
For Didier, this kind of support reflects a simple belief:
business should create opportunities, but purpose should create impact.
The Business Case for African Talent
While Didier’s passion for Africa is deeply personal, it also aligns with a very real professional opportunity.
European companies often look to Eastern Europe for nearshoring IT talent—but South Africa offers a compelling alternative:
-
strong cultural and linguistic ties to Belgium and the Netherlands
-
high technical and academic standards
-
competitive rates
-
exceptional problem-solving talent
-
and a growing tech ecosystem
Although the current Belgian IT market is slower, Didier believes that African–European collaboration is an opportunity that will only grow stronger over time.
A Network That Builds Bridges
Another important part of Didier’s African journey is his connection to the Belgian business community in Cape Town. His brother is active in the Belgian Chamber of Commerce, providing a network that allows Didier to meet entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders who are building their stories in South Africa.
These conversations often spark new ideas, new connections, and new possibilities.
A Story of Purpose, Entrepreneurship & Connection
From Springbok Online to supporting authors, guides, healthcare initiatives, and local businesses, Didier’s story is one of long-standing commitment.
It is a story where entrepreneurship meets curiosity, business meets purpose, and Europe meets Africa.
For Didier, supporting entrepreneurship in Africa isn’t just an interest, it’s part of the DNA of Nomad Consulting. A reminder that business can be global, human, impactful, and deeply connected to the places that shape us.
