Nordic House Cape Town

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Nordic House Cape Town

Nordic House aims to become both a commercial and cultural hub for Nordic interests in Cape Town. Contact us for more information! Please share with us!

To stay updated, write to hello@nordichouse.co.za and we will add you to our email list. Are you a Nordic company that wants to start up or already in Cape Town? Are you a South African company that wants to explore the Nordics? Do you have ideas for what Nordic House should offer in terms of culture?

17/11/2025

DTU Executive MBA Tour 2025 – Cape Town Kickoff!

Saturday night, Nordic House proudly joined the official kickoff of the DTU Executive MBA Tour 2025: Danmarks Tekniske Universitet - DTU. It was an inspiring evening of private dining at the exceptional Villa 47 on Bree Street. A warm Cape Town night, a beautiful setting, and the perfect atmosphere to launch this year's programme.

We were honoured to welcome Danish Ambassador Karin Poulsen, who delivered an insightful and engaging overview of the strong and evolving relationship between Denmark and South Africa. She touched on current global dynamics, the G20, Denmark’s Africa Strategy, and a personal note referencing her father's academic legacy at DTU.

The energy around the table was remarkable as the 25 MBA participants reflected on their collaboration with the five South African host companies they have been working with throughout the programme. They also shared their excitement for the final week of immersive engagement here in Cape Town.

This marks the third consecutive year that DTU has selected Cape Town for this transformative international module, and Nordic House is honoured to help once again bring together people, insights and opportunities across continents.

A big week lies ahead, filled with learning, leadership and a deep Nordic and South African connection.

Here is to another unforgettable year of partnership and discovery. We cannot wait to see what unfolds!

14/11/2025

Last night was epic and reminded us why these Nordic gatherings continue to be a highlight each month.

There was an immediate buzz in the air. A big turnout, plenty of younger faces, and conversations that flowed effortlessly from the moment people arrived.

Throughout the evening, guests moved between the bar on the second floor at Chefs Warehouse and the warm night air outside, creating a relaxed rhythm of mingling, reconnecting, and meeting new people. Ideas were shared, stories exchanged, and plans for upcoming events naturally found their way into the conversations.

We welcomed newcomers settling into Cape Town, as well as familiar friends returning after time away. With the weather finally warming up, it felt like the perfect moment to gather and enjoy a lively, easygoing Nordic Second Thursday together.

What always stands out is how people support and include one another. Swapping numbers, offering local tips, sharing experiences, and helping each other feel grounded in the city.

Thank you for bringing warmth, openness, and laughter to Nordic Second Thursdays.
We are already looking forward to the next one.

11/11/2025

Nordic Second Thursdays: Connect. Unwind. Belong.

The Nordic spirit is alive and well in Cape Town, and it all comes together again this Thursday, 13 November, at the ever-vibrant Chefs Warehouse & Canteen on Bree Street.

Fun fact! Bree Street was named one of the World’s coolest streets by TimeOut: https://www.timeout.com/cape-town/news/which-cape-street-is-one-of-the-worlds-coolest-031524

Join us for an evening where conversations flow easily, introductions turn into friendships, and inspiration sparks over good wine and even better company.

Whether you are Nordic by birth, by business, or simply by heart, you are part of this story.

- Date: Thursday, 13 November
- Time: From 18:00 onwards
- Venue: Chefs Warehouse & Canteen, 91 Bree Street, Cape Town
- Entry: Free

No formalities. No agenda. Just real people, real connections, and that signature
Nordic House energy that keeps growing every month.

Let us raise a glass to community, collaboration, and Cape Town at its best.

(Images courtesy of Laura McCullagh and Nordic House)

06/11/2025

What if Africa became one unified nation? A “United States of Africa”?

It is an idea that sparks imagination and debate: a single market, shared infrastructure, collective strength and an unstoppable demographic advantage.

Today, Africa already stands as a continent of 54 countries, speaking over 2,000 languages, and home to more than 1.5 billion people, 40% of whom are under the age of 15.

With an economy valued at US $2.8 trillion and over 600 million smartphone users, Africa represents one of the most connected, youthful, and dynamic regions on the planet.

And while the concept of a united Africa may sound far-fetched, the African Union (AU), founded in 2002 and now comprising all 54 member states (UN-recognised sovereign states), is already laying the foundation. From the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to growing cross-border cooperation, the vision of integration is no longer just a dream; it is an ongoing process.

At Nordic House, we love bold ideas that push the boundaries of what is possible. The “United States of Africa” reminds us of the power of collaboration and what can be achieved when diverse nations, sectors, and people unite behind a shared purpose.

What do you think? Could a truly united Africa become the next global superpower?

(Credit: Mark-Anthony Johnson, CEO of JIC Holdings)

04/11/2025

Bree Street Sundays are here!

A huge shout-out to Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayor of the City of Cape Town, for championing this game-changing initiative, turning Bree Street into a car-free zone every Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm through to March 2026!

This is exactly the kind of bold, people-centred thinking that’s shaping Cape Town into one of the most inspiring and liveable cities in the world, leading the way for South Africa and beyond.

Bring your friends, family, dogs, and good vibes to for food, music, fun, and connection, the perfect way to celebrate our city together.

Except the last Sunday of each month, when the celebration moves to Langa!

Here is to leadership that inspires progress, connection, and a truly people-first city.

View the Mayor’s announcement video here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/geordin-hill-lewis-98a42a231_did-you-know-that-bree-street-is-now-car-activity-7391041401305772032-ouvL?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAABTtRcBAx3ZacKYgSj24PBUube3II8m2lM

(Images courtesy of Inside Guide, Cape Town CCID, SmileFM, The Maak and Love Cape Town)

29/10/2025

Celebrating One Year of Norse Atlantic Airways in Cape Town! 🇳🇴✈️🇿🇦

One year ago today, on the 29th of October 2024, Norse Atlantic Airways made history as Flight Z0795 touched down in Cape Town, marking the airline’s first-ever landing in Africa.

Operated by their Dreamliner “Redwood,” the inaugural flight arrived from London Gatwick to a spectacular water cannon salute, with CEO Bjørn Tore Larsen and a fully booked cabin on board, a powerful symbol of connection between the Nordics and South Africa.

To mark this milestone, Nordic House proudly hosted Norse Atlantic’s official Cape Town launch event at Tintswalo Atlantic, in partnership with Wesgro, Cape Town Air Access, and the City of Cape Town. The evening was a true celebration of collaboration, bringing together leaders from business and government, the Nordic and South African communities, as well as ambassadors, partners, and friends of both regions. It was an unforgettable time that captured the shared spirit of connection, opportunity, and optimism that continues to define our partnership.

From that first moment on the runway to today, Norse has continued to soar, expanding its London-to-Cape Town route, adding more weekly flights, and opening new opportunities for travel, business, and cultural exchange between our regions.

From all of us at Nordic House, huge congratulations on this milestone and your continued success. We are proud to celebrate your incredible team. We look forward to our continued partnership and to all that the future will bring!

(Images courtesy of Nordic House, Norse Atlantic Airways and Travel Weekly)

28/10/2025

Nordic innovation is taking the stage at the Automation Summit 2025!

On the 13th of November at the Dolphin Beach Hotel in Cape Town, the Automation Summit will bring together entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners to explore how automation and AI are transforming growth across industries.

We are proud that three of this year’s speakers come directly from the Nordic House community, a clear reflection of the forward-thinking mindset and innovative spirit that thrive here.

It is inspiring to see our community shaping the conversation on the future of business.

Learn more and get your tickets here: https://AutomationSummit.co.za

See you there!

20/10/2025

Cape Town’s Cruise Boom: A Wave of Opportunity for the Western Cape!

The Western Cape has just wrapped up its most successful cruise season to date and the numbers are extraordinary. According to the latest Western Cape Cruise Liner Industry Report (commissioned by Cruise Cape Town and powered by Wesgro):

- R1.79 billion contribution to the province’s GDP-R (up from R1.32 billion in 2023/24)
- 18% growth in cruise-line calls between Sept 2024 – June 2025
- 127,000 passengers welcomed — up 16%
- R1.99 billion in total expenditure — up 32%
- 2,345 jobs supported across the cruise ecosystem

And the ripple effects extend far beyond Cape Town. From Mossel Bay and Hermanus to Saldanha Bay, 26 ship visits generated over R47.5 million in local spending, fuelling small businesses and community growth across the province.

With 70+ vessels already confirmed for the coming year, the Western Cape’s cruise industry is fast becoming one of the most exciting gateways for foreign investment, tourism, and job creation on the African continent.

At Nordic House, we celebrate this momentum, as it is proof that Cape Town continues to shine as a world-class destination for business, lifestyle, and endless opportunities.

To explore Nordic–South African investment and partnership opportunities, contact us at hello@nordichouse.co.za.

(Images courtesy of Wesgro and Cape Town BIG 6)

18/10/2025

Nordic House’s Southeaster Akvavit Collection!

This festive season, Nordic House is proud to announce our continued collaboration with our dear member Fred Hagelberg to present the beautifully crafted Southeaster Akvavit.

It is available in two distinctive editions: Taffel, clear and classic, true to Scandinavian tradition, and Cask, matured in American oak for a warm, golden character.

Each bottle captures the essence of Nordic heritage and South African craftsmanship, perfect for thoughtful gifting or sharing with friends and family this festive season.

Discover the story behind these exceptional spirits here: https://akvavit.co.za

To place your order today, please contact Nordic House at hello@nordichouse.co.za.

Start lifting spirits this festive season! :-)

16/10/2025

Celebrating 10 Years of H&M in South Africa! 🇸🇪🇿🇦

Today, we celebrate a significant milestone: 10 years since global fashion retailer H&M opened its first South African store at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town to a VIP opening celebration on the 16th of October 2015.

A decade later, H&M has grown into a nationwide favourite with 28 stores and a thriving online partnership with Superbalist, bringing Nordic-inspired fashion, homeware, beauty, and sports collections to customers across the country.

We are especially proud to note that Nordic House’s founder, Laura Lykkegaard, played an integral role in H&M’s entry into South Africa, helping to lay the foundation for a partnership that continues to connect Nordic design and South African creativity.

Here is to collaboration, innovation, style, and many more years of growth to come!

14/10/2025

Do not miss this week’s Nordic spotlight!

We are delighted to highlight the Danish film ‘A Perfectly Normal Family’ being showcased at the European Film Festival 2025 in South Africa.

- Cape Town (The L***a) — Saturday, 18 October at 14:00
- Johannesburg (The Bioscope) — Saturday, 18 October at 18:00

A Perfectly Normal Family is a touching and thought-provoking film that explores identity, love, and what “family” means in the modern age. Expect poignant performances, subtle nuance, and rich Nordic storytelling.

Celebrate Danish cinema with your community, over popcorn and conversation. Tickets are available now. Share this with friends and family who love films that linger with you long after the credits roll.

We hope you enjoy!

(Image courtesy of https://www.eurofilmfest.co.za)

11/10/2025

What an honour to meet Springbok rugby player Cheslin Kolbe yesterday at the Investec event at Lynne Loch Wine Estate.

A beautiful sunny day in the Winelands, surrounded by inspiring people and the incredible energy of one of South Africa's most talented and humble sportsmen.

Cheslin embodies leadership in its truest form. Quiet strength, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. A reminder that real influence comes not from noise, but from purpose and integrity.

Thank you for the invitation, Investec!

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http://www.nordichouse.co.za/

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