The newly announced winner of this year’s Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award, Retang Phaahla, is a former quantity surveyor turned social entrepreneur. She founded Setšong Tea Crafters in Limpopo to celebrate indigenous tea knowledge while creating sustainable incomes for rural women. Today her social enterprise not only produces health-promoting teas, but also hosts cultural tours that preserve heritage and promote ecotourism. Here’s a little about her life beyond the office.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year – and why?
Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey and Raj Sisodia. It affirmed my belief that businesses can serve a greater purpose beyond profit – by uplifting people, honouring culture, and doing good while doing well.
How do you keep fit?
Walking – it resets my body and mind.
Weeknight, low-key restaurant go-to?
My mom’s kitchen. When I don’t feel like cooking, I go home to her meals – nothing beats a lovingly made, home-cooked dish. It’s comfort on a plate.
The one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
Esther Mahlangu’s iconic Ndebele work. It’s bold, unapologetically African, and deeply symbolic of heritage.
Do you have a hobby?
Not at the moment, but I’d love to take up gardening. There’s something healing about working with soil.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
My phone! It holds my business, my calendar, my creativity – and sometimes my peace when I need to plug into music.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Usher.
Three songs you’d take to a desert island?
On & On – Erykah Badu; Song Cry – Kelvin Momo; and Dikgoro – Kgaogelo Kekana.
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