Abstract:
This basic interpretive qualitative study is on socialisation of the Chinese people living in
Derrick Street, Johannesburg. Despite the development of globalization, results from other
research indicate that Chinese immigrants continue to face socialisation challenges in their
host country. As the growing phenomenon of Chinese emigration to South Africa, findings of
this research can be used in coming up with strategies to address the identified integration
challenges.
In this study, data was collected from face to face semi structured interviews. Attitude and
English language competency are reported as major challenges which deter the Chinese
people from integrating fully into South African communities. Given the apparent reported
lack of desire to improve their English language as one of the key factor in realizing
socialisation within a diverse community, this suggests that Chinese people show low interest
towards integrating their daily lives into the local community. Furthermore, with the high
level of crime and corruption, most of the participants reported that they do not plan to stay in
South Africa permanently.
In conclusion, Chinese people in Derrick Street seem to seal themselves in cocoons,
exclusive from the local communities. However, this does not appear to disrupt or interfere
with their daily life and business activities.
