From a shared passion for coffee to fostering a community through flavour, Leroy and Itumeleng Kgopa embody the spirit of modern Johannesburg. This dynamic couple, both University of Johannesburg graduates, seamlessly balance impactful careers in healthcare with their entrepreneurial journey as the founders of Home of the Bean, an inviting space that’s become a staple for coffee lovers in the city. Their latest venture, Courtyard Kitchen, launched in 2024, further reflects their commitment to creating community-centric spaces where flavours and connections flourish.
Their story began in 2017 with a mobile coffee shop that blossomed into a brick-and-mortar shop in Maboneng, offering ethically sourced brews from roasteries around the globe. The Kgopas' dedication to sustainability and their community has cemented their place as changemakers in the city, blending hospitality, creativity, and purpose in every cup. "For us, Home of the Bean symbolises our love for coffee and the relationships we've built. It's a true reflection of our story, our commitment to the city, and the joy of making people feel like family," the couple tells us. We caught up with the Kgopas to find out about coffee culture, connection, and where they get their fix.
You both have a background in healthcare. What sparked the idea to start a coffee shop?
Our background in healthcare plays a big role in how we approach everything we do, including our businesses. Working in healthcare, we've seen first-hand the importance of taking care of both your physical and mental well-being. Coffee, for us, has always been a part of that balance; it's not just about the caffeine but also about the experience: the community, the moments of connection, and the comfort it brings.
"We want to shift the way Joburg thinks about coffee – it's not just a drink, but a culture that brings people together."
How did you land on Maboneng as the location for Home of the Bean?
Maboneng really chose us. Our journey with coffee began here, as we used to attend coffee classes in the area. A friend I met through coffee, who ran a shop called Firebird Coffee, introduced me [Leroy] to the world of specialty coffee. It was also in Maboneng that I met Jonathan Freemantle and Dan Liebmann, who would later become my landlords at the Cosmopolitan Building. They were looking for someone to run a coffee shop there, and it felt like a perfect fit. I truly believe God guided Jonathan to us as the right partners for that collaboration.
At the time [2018], Maboneng market wasn't in the best shape, but we saw it as an opportunity rather than a challenge. It was the right moment for us to open our coffee shop and contribute to the revival of the area.
Maboneng has changed so much since you first set up shop there. What has kept you in the neighbourhood?
Maboneng has definitely transformed, and being part of that growth has been an incredible journey. What’s kept us here is the sense of community and the creative energy that still thrives in the area. When we first opened, Maboneng was an emerging hub, and we could see its potential. The neighbourhood has always been a place where art, culture, and innovation come together, and we felt it was the perfect setting for our coffee shop to grow.
Over the years, we've built strong relationships with the local community – both businesses and residents – and that's what keeps us anchored here. We're inspired by the diversity and the resilience of the people around us. Even as the area has changed, the spirit of collaboration and creativity remains. It’s a place where we feel we can continue to contribute, not just with coffee, but by being part of the ongoing transformation and helping to shape the future of Maboneng.
The two Cs: coffee and community. How do these go hand-in-hand?
Coffee brings people together – whether it's friends, strangers, or colleagues. At Home of the Bean, we believe a great cup can spark more than just conversation – it can spark community and collaboration. Our space is designed to be warm, inviting, and comfortable; a place to escape, recharge, and connect. Maboneng, where creativity and community intersect, is the perfect backdrop for this. We're proud to be part of it, fostering connections one cup at a time.
What started as a mobile coffee shop (which is still operational) is now a thriving institution. What's next for Home of the Bean?
Our mobile coffee shop has been key to our business growth, especially during the quieter months, helping us stay afloat and keep moving forward. Our faith in God is at the heart of everything we do – He's always guided us on this journey, and we trust that He's leading us in the right direction.
Alongside our original location, we now have two additional stations: one at Candice Berman Gallery at 223 Jan Smuts Creative Hub and another in partnership with Bryte Business Insurance (both in Rosebank). These new locations have been pivotal to our success. Moving forward, we remain patient, trusting in God's timing, and committed to staying true to our values. With hard work and faith, we believe the future will unfold as it's meant to.
"A great brew is about more than flavour – it’s about knowing your cup is part of a positive, lasting impact on both people and the planet."
You're passionate about fair trade practices and ethical sourcing from coffee growers around the world. What should coffee lovers know when choosing a brew?
When choosing coffee, consider where it comes from and how it's sourced. We're passionate about fair trade because it ensures farmers are paid fairly and the environment is protected. Ethical sourcing supports communities and promotes sustainability.
At Home of the Bean, our green beans supplier works directly with farmers to support practices that uplift communities. We encourage coffee lovers to ask about the story behind their coffee – where it's from, how it's grown, and who benefits. A great brew is about more than flavour – it's about knowing your cup is part of a positive, lasting impact on both people and the planet.
What are some of the misconceptions around coffee you've come across in Joburg?
In Joburg, a common misconception about coffee is that quality coffee is only for a select crowd, or that speciality coffee is too niche. The truth is, great coffee is for everyone and doesn't have to be exclusive. We're here to show that speciality coffee is about enjoying a well-crafted, flavourful cup, not fancy terminology.
Another myth is that coffee is just a caffeine fix, but it's much more complex – like wine, coffee has unique flavour profiles and stories depending on its origin. Lastly, many still think coffee should be served with sugar or milk, but at Home of the Bean, we encourage people to try it black to experience its natural complexity. We want to shift the way Joburg thinks about coffee – it's not just a drink, but a culture that brings people together.
"Joburg constantly challenges us to push boundaries and connect with people – that’s why we’ve made it our home."
We're dying to know... when it's not at Home of the Bean, where do each of you get your fix? We’re definitely coffee explorers, and that curiosity is what led us to the idea of opening our own coffee shop in the first place! We love discovering new spots that offer great coffee and unique experiences. These are my [Leroy's] top three favourite coffee shops, in no particular order:
Bean There – They’ve been pioneers in the speciality coffee scene in South Africa, and I love their commitment to sourcing directly from farmers. Their coffee is always top-notch.
Father Coffee – This place has a really cool vibe, and they serve up some excellent brews. We admire the attention to detail in their coffee.
Seam Coffee – A bit of a hidden gem, but their coffee and roasting style are absolutely on point. They really know how to bring out the best in their beans.
How did the two of you meet?
We actually met in 2011, during our first year at the University of Johannesburg. But it wasn’t until 2012 that we started dating. Here’s a fun fact: the first time I [Leroy] saw Itumeleng, I told my roommate, "This one’s my wife." I immediately tried to start a conversation with her, but she wasn't having it and turned me down! It didn't discourage me, though. I went back to the drawing board, brewed some coffee magic, and that’s how we became good friends that year. Our friendship grew over time and, eventually, we started dating in 2012. We tied the knot in 2018, and now here we are, running a coffee business together! It's been an amazing journey, and coffee definitely played a big part in bringing us together.
What brought you to Joburg and/or what makes you stay here?
We both came to Johannesburg for university – Itumeleng at the University of Johannesburg, and I [Leroy] followed the same path. Joburg is a dynamic city full of opportunities, and we saw it as the perfect place to pursue our dreams and careers. What keeps us here is the city's energy, sense of possibility, and ever-evolving vibe. Joburg is a place where people come to build, create, and reinvent themselves, and it's the community that truly grounds us.
We've built our careers in healthcare, but it's the spirit of resilience and collaboration in the local neighbourhoods and small business scene that resonates with us. Joburg constantly challenges us to push boundaries and connect with people – that’s why we've made it our home.
"Joburg is often seen as a sprawling metropolis, but once you dive into it, you quickly realise that word gets around fast, and relationships here are built on trust and shared experiences."
Home is...
Home is definitely Home of the Bean (lol)! But more seriously, I [Leroy] grew up in Rustenburg, in a village called Lerome (Moruleng) near Mogwase. Even though my family now lives in Pretoria, my roots are in the North West, and I carry that village spirit with me wherever I go. Itumeleng, on the other hand, is from Mamelodi in Pretoria, a vibrant and close-knit community that's always felt like home to her. We both have strong ties to Pretoria, but over time, Joburg has become our home as well – especially as we've built our business and grown together. So, while our families are spread out across different places, we truly feel at home in Maboneng, where our journey has evolved.
What is a surprising thing people might learn about Joburg by having a conversation with you?
A surprising thing people might learn about Joburg after talking to me [Leroy] is just how interconnected the city really is. I like to think of myself as the "GPS" of Joburg – I probably know a friend who knows a friend who knows you! It's wild how the community here, while vast, still feels small in a way. You're never more than a couple of connections away from someone, and that makes it incredibly easy to connect with people, whether it's for business or just a fun adventure.
Joburg is often seen as a sprawling metropolis, but once you dive into it, you quickly realise that word gets around fast, and relationships here are built on trust and shared experiences. It's a city where networking is part of the culture, and that makes it an exciting place for both personal and professional growth.
Your favourite Joburg suburb, and why do you choose it?
My favourite Joburg suburb is Maboneng – it's where our coffee journey began and it holds a special place in our hearts. In short, Maboneng is the heart of Joburg's creative soul encouraging growth, connection, and reinvention, values that align with who we are as a couple and as business owners.
"Joburgers... take pride in the hustle and the sense of possibility that comes with living in this vibrant, ever-changing city."
What things should a visitor not leave Joburg without seeing or experiencing?
Constitution Hill, Apartheid Museum, Northcliff Ridge, Cradle of Humankind, Vilakazi Street in Soweto, and Maboneng.
Your favourite Joburg author?
Phaswane Mpe and Zakes Mda [Mpe was a South African poet and novelist and Mda is a South African novelist, poet, and playwright].
One song on your Joburg soundtrack that either is about Joburg or makes you think about this city?
See by HHP.
If you were Joburg's mayor for one day (average tenure), what would you change?
If I [Leroy] were mayor of Joburg for a day, I'd focus on cleaning the city, providing basic needs, and supporting the homeless. I'd launch a citywide clean-up initiative, improve waste management, and promote recycling. Addressing homelessness, I'd increase support for shelters and NGOs, providing resources for job training and reintegration. I'd also set up mobile stations to provide food, water, and hygiene products for the vulnerable. Promoting partnerships between government, businesses, and NGOs would be key to creating sustainable solutions. The aim would be to build a cleaner, more inclusive Joburg where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
If you could buy one Joburg building, which would it be?
Ponte City [in Berea].
What makes someone a Joburger?
A Joburger is someone who embodies the spirit of Johannesburg: resilient, entrepreneurial, and always on the move. It's about embracing the city's energy, its diversity, and its relentless drive to grow and innovate. Joburgers are adaptable, always finding new opportunities, connecting with others, and pushing boundaries. They take pride in the hustle and the sense of possibility that comes with living in this vibrant, ever-changing city.
What do you love most about Joburg?
Its energy and endless potential. It's a city that never stops moving, is constantly evolving, and full of opportunities. There's always something new to discover, whether it's a hidden café, a fresh business idea, or a community coming together. Joburg's diversity, creativity, and resilience make it a place that feels alive and full of possibility every single day.
"Take the time to explore different parts of the city. Don't just stick to the tourist hotspots; dive into the local culture, try the street food, chat with people, and really soak in the energy of the place."
What do you least like about Joburg?
The traffic and the sometimes overwhelming congestion. The city is always buzzing, but the roads can feel like a never-ending challenge, especially during peak hours. It's a small price to pay for living in such a dynamic, fast-paced city, but the traffic can definitely test your patience!
Your number one tip for a first-time visitor to Joburg?
Embrace the diversity and explore beyond the surface. Joburg is a city of contrasts, where every neighbourhood tells its own story. From the buzzing streets of Maboneng to the rich history of Soweto and the green spaces in the northern suburbs – take the time to explore different parts of the city. Don’t just stick to the tourist hotspots; dive into the local culture, try the street food, chat with people, and really soak in the energy of the place.
Also, be prepared for the hustle! Joburg moves at a fast pace, so keep your wits about you, stay open-minded, and enjoy the adventure. Every corner of Joburg has something unique to offer!
Who is one Joburg personality you would honour with the Freedom of the City if you could, and why?
Andile Khumalo for his significant contributions as an entrepreneur, investor, and media personality. He has challenged the status quo, pushed for greater inclusion in business, and broken barriers for black professionals. Through his work in media and investment, Khumalo has inspired many and championed economic empowerment in South Africa. His entrepreneurial spirit perfectly represents Joburg's opportunities, making him a deserving candidate for this honour.
The perfect weekend in Joburg includes...
In the afternoon, a visit to the Cradle of Humankind would be ideal – a short drive outside the city [less than an hour away from Rosebank], but it feels like a whole different world. The site is peaceful, full of history, and an amazing escape from the urban bustle.
Three words that describe this city
Dynamic, resilient, diverse.
Check out some of our previous #MyJoburg interviews for more insights into the city:
#MyJoburg with Fiona Pole, artist and gallerist
#MyJoburg with Federico Freschi, UJ's singing Dean
#MyJoburg with Savannah Cozzi, attorney and co-founder of Socially Gathering
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