Migrants’ resilience during the upheaval towards the postponed ending of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) in South Africa

Summary The growing diasporan community requires carefully designed psychological support, because this population is crucial for global socioeconomic development. This article explores the role of resilience among Zimbabweans who were affected by upheavals connected to the announcement of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits’ (ZEP) termination. This longitudinal qualitative study employed purposive and snowball sampling to recruit 31 Zimbabwean participants from Pretoria and Johannesburg. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews through a mix of WhatsApp and direct phone calls. Furthermore, unstructured observations of participants were conducted through WhatsApp statuses and regular communication through texts. Thematic data analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings The study's findings shed light on the resilience trajectory that was evident in participants. The findings focus on: discussing the background that formed the basis for resilience which includes the interruptions in their everyday lives owing to the upheavals associated with the termination of their visas. The findings further show the anxieties and worries that were caused by the news of the ending of their visas, and the evidence of resilience that followed in form of hope, coping, and bouncing back. Applications This study offers valuable insights into Zimbabwean migrants’ resilience in South Africa (SA). The findings highlight the specific challenges they face and the strategies they employ to cope, providing a framework for social workers to develop targeted interventions that promote their psychological wellbeing. This study serves as a foundation for further exploration of the multifaceted nature of migrant resilience and its implications for social work practice.