From South Africa to Jackson County: The Story of Monica and Conraad Visser

Sometimes love shows up when, and where, a person least expects it.

For Monica Welch and Conraad Visser, that moment came on an ordinary evening in Newport back in October 2020.

Monica, a proud 1994 graduate of Newport High School, has deep roots in Jackson County. After completing her pharmacy degree through Harding University in 2016, she chose to remain in Newport to serve her community as a pharmacist with iCare Pharmacy. Known for her warm smile, infectious laughter, and quick wit, Monica has become a familiar face to many in Newport.

Conraad’s journey to Jackson County was far less straightforward. A native of Klerksdorp, South Africa, he arrived in Augusta, Arkansas, in July 2020 through a H2A Visa program through his aunt’s company. He and three other young men, strangers at first, connected when arriving in Washington D.C. and traveled together to rural Woodruff County, where Conraad began work for Gary Coles and his farming operation under a Visa program.

Life in Augusta was quiet, until a co-worker suggested a night out in Newport. That decision changed everything. It was on that very outing, just a month before Conraad was set to return to South Africa, that he met Monica. The two quickly connected, and what began as a chance meeting turned into a lasting bond. Conraad chose to extend his contracted placement for another three months, and then in April 2022 he joined Bo Brownd and his farm as part of the same program. The couple has been together ever since.

On August 5, 2023, they sealed their love in a Las Vegas wedding. Today, Conraad holds a Green Card and has built a career with George Kell Motors Dealerships, while Monica continues her work at iCare Pharmacy. Monica has three children; Conner, Chase, and Allie who could not have chosen a better match for their mom.

Before his Arkansas adventure, Conraad had already seen much of the world through sports. A talented athlete, he excelled in badminton. His travels had taken him across several countries, but now he is discovering the beauty of America through road trips and golf outings with Monica. Recently, the couple spent three weeks in South Africa, giving Monica the chance to meet his family and experience his home country firsthand.

Though Conraad has embraced Jackson County as home, he admits he could do without one thing, mosquitoes. Still, he and Monica agree that life here suits them perfectly.

Between Monica’s ties to her hometown and Conraad’s adventurous spirit, the couple is building a life that blends small-town roots with global perspective.

It is a love story that proves sometimes the most unexpected journeys lead you right where you are meant to be.