// Joe, Java, Brew

We take a look at some of the functional and aesthetic benefits that have helped coffee stand the test of time. And talk to two creative entrepreneurs who use some of these benefits as major parts of their businesses.

Enjoy ☕☕☕

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Since the 11th century, people around the world have bean finding excuses to slip an extra cup of coffee into their daily lives. Be it a morning shot on the go or a cosy brew cuddled with those we tolerate; so many things seem smoother, warmer and more connected ‘over coffee’. 

Besides inspiring its own aesthetics and dedicated cafes. The mere smell of coffee can bring people together, influence our emotions and sometimes change our behaviour.

This liquid, aura-like property of coffee is part of what drives Wolf & Co. A haven for creatives, entrepreneurs and other people who speak English in taxis. To hear more about them beans, we (virtually) visit Sphiwe Giba’s spot in the classical South African township of Tsakane.

Eat | Drink | Collaborate @wolfandcocafe

Tell us a bit about your love/ appreciation/ understanding for coffee

Well first, my coffee journey started when I worked at a design agency. Everyday it was coffee, Lightroom and my computer screen. You tend to get used to the instant coffee and want to try something new. 

After that, I lived in an industrial area where they roasted coffee. Every morning, the smell of those roasted beans got me hooked.

The last straw was a few years ago. I went to Hogsback and met this guy who had a pottery studio (deep) inside a jungle-like space. When I saw him roasting his own coffee,  I got the light bulb moment there and never looked back.

What role does coffee play in Wolf & Co. as a business?

It plays a huge role. It’s one of the 3 pillars for Wolf and Co. Cafe >  Eat | Drink | Collaborate. We started with coffee, then later included food and events. 

Who do you think makes the best coffee in town? 

There are a couple of coffee businesses I admire for different reasons. Home of the bean; Bootleggers coffee; Bean There and Double shot. 

How can the alternative youth of Tsakane still meet, connect and smell the coffee during this whole quarantine thing?

It’s difficult at the moment. As we had to shut down for the next 21 days.

***

While the #21DaysLockdown poses new challenges for businesses such as Wolf & Co., we’re sure they’re thinking of creative (legal) ways to give people their coffee. Especially if the lockdown period is to be extended.

When that time comes, 3 friends want to make sure you are ready to explore the art of making your own coffee.

Photo by Luke Barky from Pexels

“ Coffee is more than a thing you use to get the day started. Coffee is an art. Arabica (Aka Arabian Coffee) gives you different tastes and feelings; depending on factors such as (1) The blend of the coffee, (2) Where the coffee is from and (3) How the coffee was roasted. Coffee has more taste profiles than wine or whisky.” – Greg Keorapetse

Greg Keorapetse, Kevin Perumal and Tebz Ntuli started Old School Coffee Co. to spread the love of artisanal coffee throughout Mzansi. In a society where most people still view artisanal coffee as a niche or upper class thing, the company is dedicated to finding locally-relevant ways for people to enjoy a good cup from the comfort of their homes.

“The cheapest and simplest method of home-brewing is using the French Press, which can be purchased at your local supermarket. “

In an effort to expand the culture of coffee in Africa, Old Coffee’s latest venture re-introduces an old-favourite method of enjoying coffee. Beverages combining coffee and whisky are enjoyed throughout the world. They were also the inspiration for Greg and Tebz’s latest experiment. The video below tells the story of how their love for coffee turned into a collaboration with J&B:

***

Beyond that, we hope you’re finding a way to appreciate the little joys, such as witnessing the sun rise in the morning. Or enjoying a cup of good coffee.

Despite our efforts to engage and comfort each other (esp. with humour) during this time, we have to acknowledge the challenge it poses to us as a continent, but also as a youth determined to change our future.

While our privileges, capabilities and priorities differ – let’s do what we can to stay connected, informed and safe + lend each other (sanitized) hands wherever and however we can. All while staying indoors and adhering to a national lockdown…

Let’s follow each other. Connect. Spread love and knowledge on our socials. Stay tuned to our community for more quarantine things and stories from our Hive.

Written by: Lungelo Hlela (I am Multeemedia)

– – – – –

Lungelo Hlela is a Digital Copywriter based in Johannesburg, South Africa. When he’s not writing for brands, most of his work includes themes about social issues, history and popular culture. Follow him @lungelosam for more of his existentialist ramblings and romantic ideals.

Leave Your Comment Here