International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women in Wine
International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8 March 2023, brings focus on embracing equality every day. We also need to understand the critical difference between equity and equality.
Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities.
Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances, and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.
Over the years, there has been a lot of development in the traditionally male-dominated wine and business industries. As we consider the balance between equity and equality, a shining example of success and boundless ambition driven by a largely female team, is Benguela Cove Wine Estate. Who better to share inspiration and encouragement on Women’s Day, than our founder, Penny Streeter OBE? For Penny, drive and determination are the key ingredients in creating equity for all.
Celebrating Successful Women in Wine this Women’s Day
Founder of the A24Group and Benguela Collection, Penny Streeter OBE, has a remarkable story. She is one of the most successful women entrepreneurs in South Africa and the UK. At one time living in a homeless refuge with three children, Penny has since built a business empire from startup today valued at £75 million, out of sheer hard work and tenacity. Penny has pushed through male dominated industries and is now setting the new standards for excellence within the winemaking industry. After years of success in building her business stronghold, there is so much to be learned from and inspired by this woman.
“The qualities you need to succeed are drive and determination. You don’t need money and training. It’s all about common sense and knowing your market. I never got any GCSEs and have met entrepreneurs who can’t read or write who have done well.” - Penny Streeter OBE
Supporting Women in Business
Penny is one of many successful women on the Benguela Cove team. From managers to accounts, events, marketing and HR, there are various strong female role models at work here. Michelle Waldeck, Junior Winemaker and Production Coordinator, is celebrating her sixth year at Benguela Cove in 2023. Here are some interesting facts about Michelle;
What do you love most about your role?
“The fact that there is always a challenge. I love learning new skills – facing a challenge and solving problems is often where you learn the most. Also being able to combine art and science to produce a product that you can see people enjoying is also an instant serotonin boost!”
What motivates you?
“There are many things that motivate me. Short term, I always strive to be better than I was the previous day. Also being someone that others can look up to.”
Which is your favourite Benguela Cove wine?
“I can’t pick a favourite child, but my go-to is our Cuvée58 Cap Classique. It suits any occasion and mood!”
Follow Benguela Cove team on socials to share in our remarkable stories and visit the estate to meet the team.
Starting in March, there is a salsa dance night every Saturday at 18:00, with live music, cocktails, and food. ‘Bottomless Bubbly, Mimosas, and Live Music’ is also available at the Hermanus restaurant every Saturday and Sunday from 09:30 to 12:00, as well as every public holiday except Christmas Day. On Saturdays, we invite guests to join us for live jazz and lunch at Moody Lagoon Restaurant.
There are still a few places left at the Hermanus wine farm for the annual harvest lunch on March 18 to celebrate the end of a successful harvest and toast another award-winning vintage. Guests are invited to take part in grape picking in the morning beginning at 10:30, followed by lunch at 12:00 and live music from 13:00 to 16:00.
