MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Bruce Downing has been living in Mossel Bay (Dana Bay) for only two years, and his nominator described him as someone who has grown and evolved not only himself, but importantly, also the town of Mossel Bay.
He has explored various ways of promoting music at local schools, as well as getting different groups involved in special days hosted at his wine and coffee bar in one of the most historical buildings in town.
Tell us a little about yourself - who are you and what do you do?
I’m originally a PE (Gqeberha) boy who travelled for 30 years and have fulfilled different roles, including a former global technology executive who followed a passion for hospitality to become the owner and operator of Café Vintcent. I’m also the co-founder of a business intelligence technology startup called Backpilot with my son, Cameron.
How long have you lived in the Mossel Bay area?
Going on three years. I am currently enjoying my latest entrepreneurial chapter living in the beautiful, hilly neighbourhood of Dana Bay.
What is your favourite thing about Mossel Bay?
Of course the incredible coastline and the relaxed, inviting vibe of the community. The natural beauty here is unmatched... and my mom lives just down the road in Knysna, which is awesome.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
You’ll usually find me outdoors. A nature freak and travel photographer (for five years) - so out picking up the sights and sounds. I also love playing chess, shooting pool, and diving into YouTube to learn new skills like AI.
Who or what has had the biggest influence on your life?
My family have really influenced my entire life and how it has played out. We have been very blessed through the natural ups and the downs. Professionally, I’ve been deeply inspired by self-made mavericks who build things against the odds.
What are you most proud of in your life?
I’m incredibly proud of my resilience to successfully pivot across industries - from closing multi-million dollar tech deals to opening my photography gallery in London. Now, creating a beloved community space at Café Vintcent brings me immense daily pride.
What is something you would still like to achieve or do?
Hopefully leave a lasting legacy as a contributing, impactful member of this wonderful society and someone who has helped people and animals in need.
If you could invite anyone in the world for coffee, who would it be and why?
I would invite Elon Musk because I deeply admire his entrepreneurial genius and his relentless drive to stick to his vision and achieve phenomenal success despite facing multiple business failures.
What is one thing you would like to say to the people of Mossel Bay?
Thank you for welcoming me so warmly and supporting Café Vintcent’s live music and community events. The people I have met in a very short space of time are so incredible and I love being a part of our community. Thanks for making it so awesome!
Nominate our next ‘Ons Mens’ / ‘Our Person’
Would you like to nominate someone for this weekly feature? It could be anyone in the Mossel Bay area you believe is making a positive difference in our community. Send your nomination to [email protected] or WhatsApp it to 072 599 8533. Please include the following: the name of the person you are nominating, the reason for the nomination, your contact details, and the nominee’s contact details. Who knows - your local hero might be our next ‘Ons Mens’/‘Our Person’!
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