From Prophecy to Purpose – The Journey of Heart to Heart Café

Still waters run deep and no one embodies that quiet depth quite like Lizelle Keshav, owner of Heart to Heart Café in Hartbeespoort. Thoughtful and discerning, deeply faithful, and guided by grace, Lizelle carries herself with a calm confidence that instantly puts others at ease. She is artistic, with a natural sense for beauty and detail; extremely loyal her husband, children, and family always come first; and endlessly generous, with a heart of gold. Sensitive and gentle by nature, she radiates kindness in everything she does.

Heart to Heart Café has quickly become the meeting place of Hartbeespoort moms the kind of spot where you’ll always recognize a few familiar faces from GHS and Hartbeespoort High School. It’s where moms gather after drop-off or between sports practices, where laughter and conversation flow as easily as the coffee. But beyond the aroma of freshly baked carrot cake and the hum of espresso machines, there’s something special about this little café a feeling of warmth, faith, and belonging that makes everyone who visits want to stay just a little longer.

The story of Heart to Heart began long before the first cappuccino was poured. The name itself was given to Lizelle through a prophetic word in 2022, long before she ever dreamed of opening a coffee shop. “It was something God placed on my heart,” she shares softly. “It’s about more than coffee it’s about genuine connection, kindness, and sharing God’s love from one heart to another.” That message became the heartbeat of the café, reflected in every detail from a Bible verse printed on a smoothie cup to the soft worship music in the background or the warm smile that greets you at the counter.

The atmosphere feels like stepping into a friend’s home peaceful, familiar, and full of grace. Whether you’re there to catch up with a friend, take a quiet moment alone, or let your child finish homework after school, you can’t help but feel at ease. “I want everyone who walks in to feel peace, warmth, and belonging,” Lizelle explains. “I want them to leave feeling refreshed and maybe even experience a little of what Jesus offers them.”

Opening Heart to Heart Café was never just a business decision; it was a calling one deeply rooted in faith and family. From a young age, Lizelle understood that a cup of coffee often meant more than a drink. It was a chance to connect, to talk, to heal. For years, she hosted friends and Bible studies in her home, creating spaces for conversation and prayer. When her children grew older, she felt God calling her to bring that same sense of connection to the wider community. “This café was a step of faith,” she smiles. “I wanted to create a place that honours God and brings people together.”

While starting any new venture comes with its challenges, Lizelle explains that Heart to Heart has been guided by grace from the very beginning. “I never felt like there were big obstacles only opportunities to trust God more,” she reflects. “Whenever I faced a decision or challenge, I prayed about it, and He always provided. From finding the right people to work with, to the design and the smallest details  God’s hand has been in everything.” She smiles as she quotes John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

It has truly been a family effort. Her husband, parents, and children all played a role in turning the dream into reality. “Balancing motherhood with running a business was something I had to give over to God again and again,” she says. “But He’s been patient, gracious, and generous. My family worked so hard and supported me every step of the way. I hope this journey inspires them to trust God and allow Him to use their gifts for His will.”

Today, Heart to Heart Café is not just one woman’s dream it’s a collaboration of kind hearts and shared purpose. The café’s manager, Riana van Heerden, is described as a true partner in every sense. “Riana’s warmth, kindness, and humility make people feel right at home,” Lizelle says gratefully. “She’s an answer to prayer. Her hard work and can-do attitude have helped shape Heart to Heart into what it is today.” Together, they’ve created a space that allows both their families to be part of something meaningful a place that blends community, creativity, and faith.

The coffee, of course, is exceptional crafted with care from a signature blend sourced from a local Pretoria roaster. Every barista is trained to make sure each cup meets their exacting standards. “We made sure to learn from the best,” Lizelle laughs. “We want even the most serious coffee lover to be impressed.” And if coffee isn’t your thing, there’s always the carrot cake or cheesecake both local favourites, proudly claimed as “the best in town.”

Heart to Heart Café also takes pride in supporting local producers. Their dairy products come from Dirla Homestead in Brits a family-run Jersey dairy that still produces milk and cream the old-fashioned way. Their sourdough bread is baked by a neighbour in Schoemansville, adding another layer of community connection to every plate served. “We love working with local people who share our values,” Lizelle explains. “It’s about creating something wholesome  not just in food, but in relationships.”

While the menu stays full of comforting favourites, the café keeps things fresh with seasonal and themed specials. “It’s about discovery,” Lizelle smiles, “but never losing that feeling of home.”

For many in Hartbeespoort, Heart to Heart Café has become exactly that a second home. A place to sit, breathe, reflect, and find a moment of quiet in a busy day. “My hope is that this café will always be a safe and welcoming space,” Lizelle says. “Some people come for the food, others for the peace or prayer. I just want it to be a light in the community a place where faith, kindness, and conversation come together.”

Looking ahead, her vision is to grow Heart to Heart Café into an even stronger community hub. There are plans for local art and music events, coffee tastings, and collaborations with small artisans and bakers. But through it all, one thing will never change the heart behind it. “No matter how much we grow, our goal stays the same: to serve people with love, excellence, and to share the message of Jesus,” she says.

At Heart to Heart Café, every cup tells a story. It’s not just about caffeine or cake it’s about slowing down, opening your heart, and finding connection. It’s a place where conversations matter, where friendships are built, and where, just maybe, you’ll hear God whispering something meant only for you.