The title as Dorpie of the Year has proudly been claimed by the picturesque Montagu in Kfm’s annual Best of the Cape Awards.
The award recognises not only the natural beauty of this Western Cape gem, but the remarkable way in which its entire community – from street cleaners to business owners, farmers to tourism operators – works together to maintain their town’s pristine condition while fostering both tourism growth and job creation.
“We are still so excited, and it’s wonderful to see how the entire town claims this prize as a whole community achievement,” said Mareletta Mundey, head of Montagu and Ashton Tourism. “This award truly belongs to absolutely everyone in the town, from people who roll their sleeves up and never think anything is too much trouble, even cleaning, even the smallest task, right through to the farmers and tourism operators.
“I think we know we live in an amazing little town because we experience it from the inside and get the feeling of how people care for their village. When you have a town where people care then you have a wonderful little town. So we are very, very proud of that.”
Desmond’s Coffee in Worcester was named third in the category for best coffee in the province.
The story behind Desmond’s Coffee is an inspiring one. Desmond Nyashanu told Standard & Breederivier Gazette (over a very good cup of coffee) he had never imagined this beverage, the perfect blend of bitter and comfort, could be a path to dreams come true. “I came from Zimbabwe to South Africa as a young man, with dreams of working in the electrical field. I got a job in the back office of Mugg and Bean. After attending a barista course, I realised I was actually good at it. I started working in the kitchen and when the then-baristas left I simply took their place.
“I took part in the Famous Brands Barista competition and won, and it opened doors for me.” Afterwards, he worked with Deon de Bruyn at a coffee shop in Q Square. “The Covid-19 pandemic hit and restaurants had to close. As a Zimbabwean I was not eligible for help from the state and had no income. Members of the community suggested I open a stall for takeaway coffees, and they supported me.”
After the pandemic Nyashanu opened another coffee shop at a car dealer and became a regular at the Boland Market. The dealership was unfortunately sold. “Tharina Marais, who organises the market, suggested I set up shop with her at Avignon in Church Street and it has been such a blessing. Coffee has become a part of me. I love making a cup to make someone smile. It has changed my family’s fortunes and now I can help others too.”
Nyashany and his South African wife has three young girls; his family is his motivation for working hard. Between being a business owner and father he still finds the time and energy to pursue his studies to obtain a BSc degree. Yes, coffee has been good to Desmond!
