5 Lekker Local Brands That Are Making Cape Town Better
Cape Town is made of so much more than majestic mountains and breathtaking coastlines - it also has wine and delicious coffee 😉 In all seriousness, though, it's home to a community of passionate entrepreneurs and local businesses who are making a profound impact beyond their commercial endeavours. These remarkable businesses are using their success as a platform for giving back, creating positive change, and uplifting the lives of those in need.
So, next time you’re looking to spend a few rands in Cape Town, consider supporting a business that cares - here’s a roundup of our favourites:
Cape Town-based jewellery brand Dear Rae is all about conscious creation and production, and they're seriously committed to sustainability in every aspect of their manufacturing process.
Apart from their unique designs, what sets this business apart is their big-heartedness and community spirit. Dear Rae understands the importance of making a real impact right in their own backyard. That's why, with each new collection they launch, they have pledged to donate a generous 5% of their profits to local establishments and initiatives that are working hard to create a better and more sustainable future for all.
We just had to include this, because what’s Cape Town without wine?! Winemakers Gary and Kathy Jordan are the dynamic duo behind Jordan Wines. These nature-loving philanthropists have gone above and beyond to protect a true gem of nature — the Cape Dwarf Chameleon.
To ensure the well-being of these enchanting chameleons in the Cape winegrowing areas, Gary and Kathy initiated the Jordan Chameleon Research Bursary. Every year, they generously fund a PhD student to conduct vital research on factors affecting these charming creatures. And guess what? The funds for this bursary come from a percentage of the proceeds from their very own Jordan Chameleon Wine range. Sipping on their delightful wine now becomes an act of supporting wildlife conservation — a truly wonderful way to enjoy a glass, isn't it?
Massimo's, a family-run restaurant that has been given the esteemed title of "best pizza in Africa" by 50 Top Pizza, is more than just a culinary hotspot. It's a place where the spirit of generosity and community thrives.
About five years ago, owners Massimo and Tracy initiated a heartwarming "pay it forward" campaign, igniting a wave of kindness within the close-knit Hout Bay community. The idea was simple yet powerful: customers could purchase one or more slices of mouthwatering pizza for a mere R10 each. For every six slices sold, Massimo's would deliver a whole pizza to a local charity.
Picture this: a stream of customers walking into Massimo's, not only indulging in delicious slices of pizza, but also becoming part of a greater mission. With each purchase, they join a collective effort to spread joy and nourishment to those who need it most.
Proudly South African business, Ubuntu Baba, is passionate about supporting new mothers - even those who can’t afford to buy their premium baby carriers. That’s why they wholeheartedly support non-profit organisation, Hatch, in their mission to provide newborn "starter-packs" to new mothers in underprivileged communities.
These special packs include essentials like blankets, baby clothes, diapers, and more. Hatch relies on donations to create these packs, and every contribution, big or small, helps them deliver smiles to new mothers in need. With every Ubuntu Baba carrier sold, Hatch is able to continue making a difference and bringing comfort to these precious babies and their moms.
When passengers embark on the iconic red open-top buses of City Sightseeing in Johannesburg and Cape Town, they embark on an extraordinary journey through two of Africa's most captivating cities. But there's more to it than just a fantastic day out.
A portion of the proceeds is dedicated to the IKhaya Le Themba aftercare facility, a nurturing haven for primary school children located in the Imizamo Yethu informal settlement of Hout Bay.
Thanks to the ongoing contributions from City Sightseeing, significant transformations have taken place over the past few years. The generosity of passengers has allowed for the complete refurbishment of one of the facility's classrooms, providing a vibrant and conducive learning environment for the children. Additionally, City Sightseeing ensures the sustainability of the facility by subsidising a dedicated teacher's salary every month.