If you’re reading this, chances are your business is already listed on HowzitCanada.ca. That might’ve come as a surprise — a lekker surprise, I hope — because most of these listings were created by a small army of volunteers, scouring the internet to find South African-owned businesses across Canada.
Now, HowzitCanada is not just a directory. It’s a network. A digital home where we, as South Africans living in Canada, can find each other — for everything from biltong to bookkeeping.
I built this because, even though I love living in Canada, there’s still something I miss. That connection to my roots. That feeling when you hear someone speaking Afrikaans or Zulu at a shop or when you share a chuckle over a braai. That little spark of something familiar. That’s what this platform is about.
And the thing is, most of the people coming to Howzit Canada aren’t just looking for a tax consultant or a takeaway. They’re looking for a connection. They’re looking for a connection to their roots, to support other South Africans. They want to do business with people who get them. That’s why I drive 30 minutes out of my way to get my car serviced by Jonathan — because while I’m waiting, we speak Afrikaans, have a laugh, and I walk away with much more than just new brake pads.
If your business is on here, I want to help you make your listing shine — not just so people can find you, but so they can connect with you. Because when we connect, we support each other.
Before we dive in, here’s a quick option: you can either scroll down and read the guide, or you can watch the video version where I walk you through exactly how to make your listing lekker and personal.
Let me take you through how to make your listing really work. There are five key parts to every listing, and each one plays a role in helping people get to know, like, and trust you.
1. Your Logo
This is your first impression. It shows up in search results and again on your listing page.
Some of the logos we pulled are pixelated or stretched — that happens when volunteers grab what they can from the web. If yours isn’t looking great, send us a better one. If you don’t have one at all, chat to us — we can help you get a clean, professional one without breaking the bank.
2. Short Description (The Hook) ⚡
This is the small block of text that shows when people browse listings. It’s short — under 50 words — so it needs to land well.
Here’s the trick: don’t make it sound like a business brochure. Make it sound like you.
Let’s compare two real examples:
Neil and Karin invite you to pop in to the store, currently located at 385 John Street, Thornhill, Ontario, when you have a craving for a “stukkie” biltong or any of their delicious South African products.
Why it works:
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It personalizes the people behind the business — Neil and Karin. Now, I’m not just going to a shop — I’m going to their shop. I’m visiting Neil and Karin, who clearly seem like lekker, down-to-earth people. That’s a totally different vibe.
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It invites you in
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It gives a clear location
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It makes you crave a “stukkie biltong” (bonus points for the Afrikaans!)
Now compare that to:
Boesman Biltong brings the rich, distinct taste of South African cured meat to your door. Additive, preservative and gluten-free beef snacks are here!
This isn’t wrong — but it’s generic. It’s written for Google. And it might impress Canadians and foodies from afar. But if you’re speaking to South Africans, calling biltong a “gluten-free cured meat snack” just sounds… well, a bit uppity.
Make it sound human. Make it sound like you.
3. Long Description (Tell Your Story)
This is the big one. The heart of your listing.
This is where you tell people who you are, where you’re from, how you got here, and what made you start your business. Share your journey. Don’t write it like a press release — write it like you’re talking to a mate over a beer at a Braai.
Let them hear your story, your values, and the passion behind what you do. Talk about your first few months in Canada. Mention the people you’ve helped. Let them see the human behind the business.
And for the love of chutney — don’t forget a clear call to action at the end. Something like: “Visit our site” or “Pop by the store” or “Book a free consult.”
People do business with people they feel they know. This is where they get to know you.
4. Gallery (Show Your Face)
Photos matter. Like, a lot. Studies show we trust listings with real human faces way more than those without.
Add 5–7 real photos:
- You (yes, you)
- Your shop or workspace
- Your team
- Your products
- Bonus: something proudly South African — a flag, a jersey, a braai
It doesn’t have to be professional. It just has to be real.
5. Contact Info
Make sure your email, phone number, website, and social links are accurate. If you’ve got a physical store, put in the address. If not, mention where you’re based — “serving the Calgary area” is perfect.
Let’s make it easy for people to connect with you.
Need Help? Let’s Chat. ☕
If you’re feeling stuck or need help updating your listing, just book a 15-minute chat with me. No stress — just a friendly call to help you get the most out of your listing.
Booking link: https://meet.boomerangapp.com/callie.globalvillage.world/meeting3
We’re building something special here. This isn’t about Google rankings or flashy listings. It’s about making connections. About finding each other. About supporting your roots while building your life in Canada.
Let’s make your listing lekker. Let’s make it personal. Let’s make it you.
Cheers,
Callie
Founder, The South African Institute of Canada
