Every year, we keep an eye on the Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award because it clues us up on South African women who’re knocking it out the park as dynamic and daring female entrepreneurs. Over the next few weeks, we’re going to pepper our weekly “Eight Questions” spot with answers from some of the finalists in this year’s award, because we know you’ll find them fascinating too.
First up is Dr Phindi Cebekhulu-Msomi (who’s a finalist in the Bold Future category). She’s the founder and CEO of the Hazile Group, an enterprise that’s driving climate-smart solutions in agriculture, energy and water. It’s all about addressing food insecurity, water scarcity and energy transition while uplifting marginalised communities.
Her work adds a lot of meaning to her life, but beyond it, what keeps her going? We did a little digging …
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year. And why?
Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey and Raj Sisodia has been a transformative read for me. It challenges the traditional notion that business exists solely to maximise profits and instead champions a purpose-driven approach that creates value for all stakeholders – employees, customers, communities and the environment.
This philosophy resonates deeply with the vision behind Hazile Group, where we strive to build an agribusiness that not only sustains livelihoods but that also restores ecosystems and empowers women. The book reinforced my belief that profitability and social impact are not mutually exclusive, but deeply interconnected.
How do you keep fit?
Exercise is part of how I stay grounded and manage stress. I commit to at least four sessions a week, which include a mix of cardio, walking and yoga. It’s not just about fitness – it’s a meditative reset.
Week night, lowkey restaurant go-to?
In Joburg, I love places like Nice on 4th in Parkhurst for a relaxed vibe and wholesome food. Its breakfasts are also great for casual evening meetings or solo time.
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper – it’s a timeless reflection on perspective; how every viewer can interpret it differently depending on their position. To me, it’s a visual reminder that leadership is about empathy, complexity and interpretation.
Do you have a hobby?
Yes, two! I absolutely love cooking, especially dishes that blend traditional South African flavours with global techniques. It’s my creative outlet. And volunteering – whether mentoring young women or working with farming co-ops – keeps me connected to my purpose.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
My solar-powered charger! It’s a small but mighty tool that allows me to stay connected while travelling to remote project sites, especially where electricity is unreliable. It is functional sustainability at its best.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Maybe not really high school, but in the 90s it had to be Will Smith – charming, funny, ambitious, and always reinventing himself. He represented possibility when so few black role models were visible on global screens.
Three songs that you’d take to a desert island?
Ndawo Yami by Zamajobe (for grounding); Golden by Jill Scott (for confidence and sunshine); and As by Stevie Wonder (for eternal hope).
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