Sherif Sewilam – A Passion for Pets and the Journey to Carlito
A Notable Pet Icon
With a wag of the tail and a flick of a whisker, pets provide us with comfort, love, and connection. For some, pets are simply part of the family, but few go the extra mile to make a difference in the pet world. Sherif Sewilam, a well-known figure in Egypt's pet industry and former executive at a leading pet food brand, is one of those individuals.
Sherif has dedicated his life to understanding and improving the well-being of pets. From his years in the pet food industry, where he oversaw the development of high-quality pet products, to his own journey as a German Shepherd breeder and international champion competitor, Sherif has shown an unwavering commitment to excellence. His latest venture, Carlito, is a testament to this dedication—a local Egyptian brand with global aspirations, backed by a considerable investment.
The Story Behind Carlito
My love for dogs began when I was 13, even though I was initially terrified of them," Sherif recalls with a smile. "It was my older brother who brought home a newly born puppy named Carlito. That small act changed everything for me, sparking a passion for dogs that has only grown over the years. My favorite breed has always been the German Shepherd, and that’s where my story began."
Sherif’s love for German Shepherds led him to breed and train them for international competitions, a journey that peaked in 2017 when he won the prize for the best show line dog in the world. "Competing wasn’t easy, but it taught me a lot about dogs' anatomy and well-being," Sherif says. His dedication continued, leading him to capture another significant win in 2023 with a beloved dog named ASAP, whose name will be carried into Sherif’s next brand venture.
From Competitor to Business Owner
After nearly three decades in the pet industry, including a significant stint at a leading pet food company, Sherif decided to pursue a personal dream—a business that would bring international-quality pet food to the Egyptian market. “I wanted a project that’s 100% local but has the potential to compete on a global stage,” he explains. This desire led to the creation of Carlito, a brand that combines Sherif's professional expertise with his love for pets.
Carlito’s goal is clear: to provide high-quality, nutritious pet food that’s accessible to the average Egyptian pet owner. Sherif leveraged his extensive experience to develop Carlito’s recipes, emphasizing a perfect balance between premium ingredients and affordability. "Carlito is made with 100% real chicken and focuses on improving pets' overall health, catering to both small and large breeds across all age groups," he states with pride.
Despite the competition from multinational companies, Sherif is optimistic. "I'm pouring resources into ensuring Carlito stands out, but I prefer to reveal the details directly to the market. There’s a lot planned, and I can’t wait for people to see it."
Balancing Business and Passion
Sherif’s devotion to pets extends beyond business. "I’ll never abandon the competitions," he asserts. "But Carlito is my new passion, and I want to give it everything I've got. Quitting my corporate job allows me to fully invest my time in a brand that reflects both my love for pets and my business acumen."
Through his efforts, Sherif not only hopes to elevate the quality of pet food available in Egypt but also aims to create a community of like-minded animal lovers who share his passion for pets.