Latest news with #HazileGroup
IOL News
29-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Setšong Tea Crafters and Hazile Group lead the way for bold women in business
The stage was set for a night of celebration as the Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman and Bold Future Awards honoured extraordinary female entrepreneurs who are reshaping South Africa's business landscape. At the forefront of this prestigious ceremony were Retang Phaahla, co-founder and CEO of Setšong Tea Crafters, and Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, founder and CEO of Hazile Group. With their pioneering work in sustainable enterprises, both women epitomise boldness, authenticity, and a deep commitment to cultural heritage and innovation. Phaahla was celebrated as the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award winner for her exceptional leadership in Setšong Tea Crafters, a brand that breathes new life into indigenous ingredients while honouring South Africa's rich cultural heritage. Under her guidance, Setšong has emerged as a purpose-driven enterprise that promotes sustainable practices, utilising the bountiful biodiversity of Sekhukhune, Limpopo. 'Boldness is choosing to lead with purpose, even when the path is uncharted,' Retang said. Started alongside her mother, Nondumiso Phaahla, Setšong is deeply rooted in community engagement, working collaboratively with rural locals to cultivate, process, and market a range of artisanal teas. Renowned for their distinctive flavours and wellness properties, including relief from stress and other health benefits, these products reflect a commitment to African customs and the empowerment of women in the region. As one jury member noted, Retang's work not only educates others about African culture but also uplifts marginalised communities. 'I am unapologetic about displaying my culture,' Retang asserted, emphasising her role as a custodian of her heritage. Setšong's approach intertwines tradition and sustainability, proving that innovative practices can thrive while maintaining cultural significance, thus creating meaningful opportunities for local communities. Meanwhile, Dr Cebekhulu-Msomi, the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award winner, is another monumental figure in this landscape of change. As the founder of Hazile Group, she champions climate-smart initiatives in hydroponic farming, water remediation, and renewable energy. Her work addresses critical environmental and social challenges in South Africa, advocating for a green economy through regeneration and inclusivity. 'I'm a woman with a vision to transform South Africa's food and water status,' she declared, reflecting her unwavering dedication to creating sustainable progress. Hazile Group is a multidisciplinary enterprise that integrates agriculture, clean water, and green energy practices, directly addressing numerous UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger and Gender Equality. Dr Cebekhulu-Msomi's commitment extends beyond her company; she is also a serial entrepreneur with ventures aimed at empowering women and youth in underserved communities. Her impact is profound, her words remind us that true boldness lies in perseverance and the courage to uplift others. A jury member highlighted her story as one of tenacity and resilience in the face of challenges. The awards ceremony was not just a celebration of individual achievements but a testament to the power of community connections, underlined by an uplifting performance from acclaimed South African artist Zoë Modiga. Last year's winner, Morongwe 'Mo' Mokone, reflected on how the award opened doors for connection and collaboration, setting a powerful precedent for the new honourees. 'I see myself as a torchbearer for boldness,' she shared. Saturday Star
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
The 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Awards winners announced
Celebrating entrepreneurial excellence and fearless innovation, the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Awards lit up Hyde Park Corner on the evening of July 16, honouring two standout South African women making a bold difference in business and society. Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, founder and CEO of Hazile Group, was awarded the Bold Future Award for her climate-smart enterprise driving sustainable agriculture, water, and energy solutions in underserved rural communities. Retang Phaahla, founder of Setšong Tea Crafters, received the Bold Woman Award, recognised for her unique fusion of indigenous tea knowledge, rural upliftment, and eco-tourism in Limpopo. Both women were selected from a competitive pool of six finalists, celebrated for pushing boundaries in their industries while positively impacting their communities. Also read: Visionary leaders unveil paths to empowerment at inaugural Africa Rising Leadership Summit & Awards The annual award, now in its fourth edition in South Africa, is rooted in the legacy of Madame Clicquot, the trailblazing 19th-century businesswoman known for transforming the champagne industry. Also read: New generation of art trailblazers recognised Accepting her Bold Future Award, Cebekhulu-Msomi said, 'This recognition is not just for me, but for women who dream of changing the world with purpose-driven work. The future is green, inclusive, and powered by bold ideas.' Phaahla, who captivated the judges with her culturally grounded and sustainable business model, reflected on her journey, 'We are reclaiming our heritage through tea and telling stories that honour the land and the people who care for it. This award affirms that business can be both rooted and revolutionary.' The judging panel, which included previous winners Amanda Dambuza and Morongwe Mokone, alongside leadership and business experts such as Erik Kruger, Happy Ralinala, and Timothy Maurice Webster, praised the winners for their vision, leadership, and measurable impact. Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
