A year of growth, community and Ubuntu

January 13, 2025

A year of growth, community and Ubuntu

As we reflect on our first full year of having a physical store, I’m filled with gratitude. What an incredible journey it’s been! We’ve been blessed not only with the support of our wonderful South African community, but also with the opportunity to learn and grow as a small business. It hasn’t been without its challenges, especially with our relocation to Calgary, but through every hurdle, we’ve remained committed to the values that have always driven us.

For those who might not know, Baobab is so much more than just a South African store. It wasn’t founded out of the desire to make a profit or driven by pure ambition. It was born out of a love for South Africa—a passion for our traditions, our food, and the vibrant community that we hold dear. From the beginning, we’ve made it our mission to create a space that fosters connection, celebrates our culture, and supports the growth of local businesses and small entrepreneurs.

In fact, Baobab is built on the idea of community. We want to offer more than just a store—we want to build a network where businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs can collaborate and thrive together. We’ve always sought to create a platform that allows others to benefit from what we’ve built, while contributing to the broader community of sharing and giving.

For me, networking is everything. Whether it’s showcasing someone’s art in our store, referring a customer to another South African business, or simply offering a space for someone to meet and share ideas, every act of collaboration matters. It’s through these shared efforts that we truly live out the words “South Africans stand together.” However, we all know that sometimes, this isn’t always the case. We’ve all heard the saying, “Suid Afrikaners laat nie die son oor ander skyn nie” (South Africans don’t let the sun shine on others). Sadly, this can sometimes ring true.

But that’s why, when it comes to running my business, my biggest priority is to do exactly the opposite. 

There will always be people who try to tear you down—whether in business or in life—but it’s how we respond that defines us.  I firmly believe in fighting negativity with kindness. Actions, not words, speak louder. The damage caused by gossip or boycotting is irreversible, and I choose not to engage in that.

 Instead, I will continue to keep my door open to anyone who wants to experience our hospitality, contribute to our community, or bring business our way.

This brings me to an important invitation. To all small businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals out there—let’s work together.  Let’s share ideas, referrals, and resources, and find ways to support one another’s growth.

 My store is open to anyone who wants to host an event, business meeting, or needs a space to collaborate. I believe that by supporting each other, we can make a real impact, not just for our businesses, but for the entire community.

To the South African community, I want to remind you that we’re all just people. We make mistakes, and sometimes we fall short, but we also have the power to get it right.

 So, come and support not just Baobab, but all South African businesses.

 Your feedback, your opinions, and your presence mean the world to us. We are here because of you. Without your support, there would be no Baobab.

In the end, it all comes down to Ubuntu: “I am what I am because of who we all are.” We are stronger together, and it’s through the collective effort of our community that we can continue to thrive and grow.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of shared success, support, and unity.