I grew up in a Christian home where we went to church every Sunday and we prayed because that’s just what we did. But honestly? As a little girl, I didn’t really get it. The adults around us never truly explained who God was, so my siblings and I just followed along. I gave my life to Christ when I was young, but I quickly forgot about it and just lived my life.
When I was about 14, something shifted. I had a real encounter with the Holy Spirit at church, and I remember thinking, “Okay, this is it.” I gave my life to Him again. But then, life happened. I grew up, I got distracted, and I went astray for a second time.
It wasn't until college that things got really dark. I fell into a deep season of depression. I was so scared and anxious all the time. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't eat, and I was just plain miserable. I felt lost. My aunt and cousins started taking me to church with them, and slowly, the noise in my head started to calm down. It was there, at 18 years old, that I realized I truly loved Jesus with all my heart. I decided to stop playing games and be intentional. I wanted Him for real this time.
Before I knew who I was in Christ, I was a people-pleaser. I just wanted to be accepted. I had no sense of purpose and, honestly, I didn't care much about anything. But when I finally gave Jesus the throne in my heart, everything changed. He gave me an identity that wasn't based on what people thought of me.
When I first started Chez Kwetu, it wasn't a "faith-based" business. I just did whatever I wanted! But God is patient. As the years have gone by and my own walk with Him has grown, He has slowly changed the heart of this business. He’s taking it exactly where He wants it to go. Chez Kwetu is becoming a place where faith isn't just a label, but the very foundation of everything I create.
I can't wait to share more with you!
With love,
Dawn
"If you asked me where my happiest memories live, they would take you straight back to the streets of Kananga, DR Congo. I can still feel the rain on my skin as I ran through the streets with the other kids, playing games in the sand with nothing but a ball and our imaginations.
I was born in that small, beautiful city before moving to the bustle of Kinshasa for my teens, and eventually making my way to Canada at the age of thirteen. Being the second born and the first daughter in a family of ten children (seven brothers and three sisters!), I learned early on the importance of family, culture, and the meaning of 'home.'
Though I have lived in Canada for most of my life now, my heart has never forgotten its roots. I am a wife to a wonderful man from Kinshasa and a proud mom of four. Together, we are raising our children to know their history and carry our culture with pride.
I started Chez Kwetu—which means 'Our Home' in my mother tongue—because I wanted to build a bridge between the two worlds I love. Every design I create and every seed we plant through The Kwetu Connection is a tribute to the little girl running in the Kananga rain.
Thank you for being a part of our home."
With love,
Dawn
"Running a small business is a beautiful, messy, faith-filled adventure, and I’m documenting it all on my YouTube channel. From behind-the-scenes of your orders to the lessons I’m learning as a mom-entrepreneur, I’d love for you to join me there. If you’d like to see how Chez Kwetu grows, feel free to check it out and subscribe below!"
youtube.com/channel/UCBfgKJBH48wO3R0tRQYc3Zw?sub_confirmation=1