Dennis De Wet is the passionate name behind Slowtown Coffee Roasters, the man who took his passion and grew a flourishing business around it. Dennis shares here his learnings and lessons from the past year, his self examination from Africa… his Afrospection.
Looking Back…
Q: How would you describe your 2017?
A: It’s been one of those break-out years for us. After 5 years of hard graft it felt like 2017 was where a lot of the dirty work started to pay off.
Q: What was something good that came out of 2017?
A: Stability. 2016 we opened 2 shops within a month of each other and it all felt too hectic. 2017 gave us time to reflect and fine-tune.
Q: What challenged you in 2017 and how did you overcome this challenge?
A: As the general mood and sentiment became very negative with the obvious economic downturn. I decided early not to entertain too much negativity. You are what you speak and I believe in the power of the tongue. If you speak life you will reap it.
Q: What was your favourite Art in 2017?
A: Living in Swakopmund we are just a little starved on the Cultural side. We did a trip to Munich which really just inspired me again. The old world architecture and grandeur of it all.
Q: What was your biggest health and wellness learning of 2017?
A: I committed to doing the Desert Dash early this year and with the huge help of my wife with her constant encouragement I got into a habit of exercise. It has been the first year where I’ve just been very active on a regular basis and it feels great.
Q: What was your biggest personal development learning of 2017?
A: I would say that I am getting better at doing and not just talking. More on the personal side. Like taking longer breaks to get inspired. Family. Exercise. Balance in life.
As for the Holidays…
Q: What is your favourite food in December?
A: Seafood. Fresh seafood.
Q: What is your favourite Namibian destination?
A: Swakopmund in December.
Q: What book should we all be reading?
A: Shoe Dog – by Phil Knight – Founder of Nike
Q: Where do you find your inspiration?
A: Firstly in my relationship with God, then my wife and kids. Relationships and people inspire me.
Looking Forward…
Q: What is your mantra for life?
A: Do what you love.
Q: What is your wish for the world for 2018?
A: Unselfishness.
Q: What is your wish for Namibia for 2018?
A: For people in power to become true servants of the nation.
Q: What is your wellness goal for 2018?
A: Continue to live a healthy lifestyle. Exercise. Rest. Adventure.