The Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award returned for its fourth year in South Africa, unveiling Retang Phaahla and Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi as the 2025 Bold Woman Award and Bold Future Award winners, respectively. The announcement took place at a celebratory event at The Forum, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, on 16 July 2025. Now in its 53rd year globally, the Bold Woman Award by Veuve Clicquot honours visionary women who lead with courage, innovation, and a commitment to empowering others.
Since its inception in 1972, the Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award has evolved into a global recognition, celebrating women in 27 countries who are reshaping the future of business. The winners join a network of pioneering women united by shared purpose and support. The 2025 award recipients, Retang and Dr Phindile, now take their place among these bold leaders.
2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award Winner: Retang Phaahla, Co-founder and CEO of Setšong Tea Crafters
Retang Phaahla, the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award winner, is the Co-founder and CEO of Setšong Tea Crafters, a purpose-driven brand that revives indigenous South African ingredients and champions sustainable enterprise. Setšong leverages the biodiversity of Sekhukhune, Limpopo, to create wellness products that honour cultural heritage. Through Setšong, Retang empowers rural communities, particularly women, to engage in economic activities that preserve their heritage.
Retang’s approach combines innovation with cultural respect, showcasing how entrepreneurship rooted in heritage can uplift marginalised communities. “Boldness is choosing to lead with purpose, even when the path is uncharted,” she says. Her work demonstrates the transformative power of innovation when aligned with cultural significance and community empowerment.
2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award Winner: Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, Founder and CEO of Hazile Group
Dr Phindile Cebekhulu-Msomi, Founder and CEO of Hazile Group, has been honoured as the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award winner. Hazile focuses on climate-smart development through hydroponic farming, water remediation, and renewable energy. By addressing South Africa’s environmental and social challenges, Dr Phindile’s enterprise contributes to the advancement of the green economy through regenerative practices.
A serial entrepreneur, Dr Phindile also founded Acumind Consulting and Basadi Bakopane, organisations dedicated to business management consulting and empowering women and youth. “Being bold is building even when the odds are stacked against you,” says Dr Phindile, whose work aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Celebrating Boldness and Connection
The award ceremony, hosted by MC Nomndeni Mdakhi, highlighted the power of connection and the influence of bold women in business. South African singer Zoë Modiga’s performance added a soulful touch to the event, while last year’s Bold Woman Award winner, Morongwe “Mo” Mokone, spoke about the doors the award had opened for her. The evening also included a reflection on the value of community and support for future women leaders.
The Veuve Clicquot Bold Open Database, an open-access platform for female entrepreneurs, continues to promote empowerment year-round. Women entrepreneurs interested in joining this global network can register at www.boldopendatabase.com/en.