CHAMPIONING LEGACY, LEADING CHANGE: MEET THE 2025 VEUVE CLICQUOT BOLD WOMAN AWARD WINNERS

The prestigious Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award returned for its fourth edition in South Africa, honouring two trailblazing leaders who embody boldness, innovation and impact. On Wednesday, 16 July 2025, at The Forum in Hyde Park, Johannesburg, Retang Phaahla and Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi were announced as the 2025 Bold Woman Award and Bold Future Award winners, respectively.

Globally established in 1972 to commemorate Maison Veuve Clicquot’s 200th anniversary, the Bold Woman Award celebrates exceptional women reshaping industries and societies. Now in its 53rd year, it has become a global movement that spans 27 countries—recognising visionary leaders who, like Madame Clicquot, demonstrate entrepreneurial daring, purpose, and resilience.

2025 Bold Woman Award Winner: Retang Phaahla

Co-founder and CEO of Setšong Tea Crafters, Retang Phaahla leads a purpose-driven, culturally-rooted business that elevates indigenous South African tea-making. Setšong, based in Sekhukhune, Limpopo, revives traditional ingredients through sustainable agro-processing and tourism initiatives. Launched in 2016 with her mother, Nondumiso Phaahla, the brand exemplifies social entrepreneurship by empowering rural women and honouring African heritage.

“Boldness is choosing to lead with purpose, even when the path is uncharted,”.

Retang shares

Her commitment to cultural preservation and economic upliftment is reflected in Setšong’s community model, which trains and employs local women to harvest, produce, and market wellness teas celebrated for their health benefits. From calming nerves to balancing blood pressure, each blend tells a story of tradition and transformation.

Adjudicator Amanda Dambuza praised Retang for placing heritage at the heart of a luxury, impact-driven product, while Timothy Maurice Webster commended her for educating the world about Africa.

“I am unapologetic about displaying my culture,”.

Retang affirmed, cementing her role as a modern-day custodian of heritage and innovation

2025 Bold Future Award Winner: Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi

At the forefront of green innovation, Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, Founder and CEO of Hazile Group, leads a multi-disciplinary enterprise focused on climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and clean water solutions. Hazile drives inclusive development by integrating hydroponics, water remediation and sustainability technologies into underserved communities, helping South Africa realise the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

“Being bold is building even when the odds are stacked against you—and rising anyway,”.

says Dr Phindile

Her ventures—Hazile Group, Acumind Consulting, and the non-profit Basadi Bakopane—create new possibilities for women and youth, addressing food insecurity and climate change with regenerative solutions.

From serving on boards like the Water Institute of Southern Africa to mentoring the next generation of changemakers, Dr Phindile’s impact spans business, community, and policy.

“She kept getting up after every setback. That’s true courage.”

Judge Mo Mokone applauded her perseverance:

“Phindile is audacious in her curiosity and her commitment to change.”

Amanda Dambuza added:

A Night to Honour Boldness and Connection

Hosted by Nomndeni Mdakhi, the ceremony was an elegant celebration of courage and leadership. Guests were treated to a soul-stirring performance by the incomparable Zoë Modiga, who brought her unique fusion of sound and spirit to the evening. Onstage, 2024 Bold Woman Award winner Mo Mokone reflected on the doors the award opened for her—from global exposure to deeper connections—and encouraged women to “support the next bold woman.”

As Retang and Dr Phindile take their place among the international Veuve Clicquot Bold community, they carry the torch forward, amplifying purpose-driven impact from rural South Africa to global platforms.

Continue the Bold Movement

Even as the 2025 awards conclude, the Bold Open Database continues to connect women around the globe. As the first global open-access platform of its kind, it enables entrepreneurs to be discovered, collaborate and thrive in a supportive ecosystem. To register and be part of the movement, visit: www.boldopendatabase.com/en.

The bold legacy of Madame Clicquot lives on—inspiring women like Retang Phaahla and Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi to lead, uplift, and transform.