From Classroom to Cellar: How Sesfikile Wines’ Pikashe is Taking South African Wine to the World

In the heart of Gugulethu, a township known more for its vibrant culture than vineyards, a powerful story of transformation is being bottled — one handcrafted vintage at a time. Meet Pikashe, founder of Sesfikile Wines, a 100% women-owned wine brand that’s rewriting South Africa’s wine narrative and inspiring a new generation of female entrepreneurs to dream globally.

Once a schoolteacher, Pikashe traded chalk for Chardonnay nearly two decades ago — a bold move that has since paid off in more ways than one. “The South African wine industry is almost four centuries old and represents a beautiful heritage as well as a major contributor to our GDP. I left teaching to explore my entrepreneurial spirit in a space that was still obscure to most local citizens,” she explains.

Her company, Sesfikile Wines, produces wines that are as bold and distinctive as her own journey. Each bottle is handcrafted by a team of skilled winemakers and features a unique taste profile and rare blend combinations — a proud reflection of South African creativity and craftsmanship.

But Pikashe’s ambitions reach far beyond the Cape vineyards. As South Africa assumes the G20 Presidency (December 2024 – November 2025), she sees a golden opportunity for local entrepreneurs. “It is important for small businesses to export to G20 countries so that they can grow and sustain their businesses and create generational wealth that impacts positively on society. This is also a chance to position South Africa as a global trade leader,” she says.

The G20 Leaders’ Summit, set for Johannesburg from 22–23 November 2025, will be a historic first for the African continent — and a symbol of the country’s growing influence in global trade. Entrepreneurs like Pikashe believe that the time has come for South African products, particularly wine, to shine on the world stage.

Still, the path hasn’t been smooth. “Exporting wine is not easy… the industry is still largely associated with white people and big business,” she admits. Yet her persistence is paying off. Backed by opportunities from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), she has showcased her wines in China, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

In 2021, the South African Wine Industry Transformation Unit (SAWITU) awarded Sesfikile Wines R250,000 for marketing and branding. That boost helped open doors to the international market. “I was very fortunate to find a market in the US — a company discovered me online. I approached a UK-based company after reading about them in the Wines of South Africa newsletter,” she recalls. Today, Sesfikile Wines proudly exports to both the United Statesand United Kingdom.

Despite the success, Pikashe stays grounded in her community. The business currently employs three people — a modest number, but one that represents hope, progress, and empowerment. “The more women we have in business, the better,” she says. “Women have a nurturing spirit, and they should use that inherent quality to grow businesses and make a meaningful impact on the country’s economy and society.”

Did You Know?

Sesfikile Wines was among the standout brands at the 2025 Proudly South African Local Wine Expo in July — an event that celebrated the finest wines the country has to offer. Proudly SA highlighted that South African wines, with their rich heritage and world-class quality, are key to unlocking market access for local producers. “The expo is a tribute to our dedicated winemakers, showcasing their passion and craftsmanship,” said Proudly SA.

As Sesfikile Wines continues to make waves both locally and abroad, one thing is clear: Pikashe’s journey is more than a business story — it’s a masterclass in courage, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

For more information on Sesfikile Wines, visit: www.sesfikilewines.com