The South African Wine Industry Professional Body (SAWIPB) recently achieved a significant milestone by registering as a non-profit company with a new governing structure, empowering it to designate wine industry professionals. This move marks a crucial step in the evolution of SAWIPB, which now functions as a stand-alone entity separate from South Africa Wine, which remains as primary member and key funder.
The newly appointed SAWIPB board includes a diverse group of leaders who bring a wealth of experience and insight. Barend Jordaan of Cape Wine Exporters, Denise Stubbs of Thokozani, Denzel Swarts of Zoetendal, Rydal Jaftha of Koopmanskloof, Celeste Le Roux of React24, and Nadia Hefer of Hive Collective have all taken on key roles. Their collective expertise across different sectors of the wine industry will help SAWIPB in its mission to elevate professional standards and drive the continued growth and global recognition of South African wine.
At the heart of SAWIPB's mission is the advancement of the wine industry through the promotion of knowledge, the protection of consumer interests, and the elevation of professional standards. By ensuring that its members adhere to a set standard of excellence, SAWIPB advances a culture of continuous improvement vital for maintaining the global reputation of South African wines.
Under the dedicated leadership of Kachné Ross, SAWIPB is a professional body that aims to advance occupations within the wine industry and promote knowledge by ensuring information is shared between peers while protecting the interests of employers and the public.
The entity seeks to:
- Promote and build on the professional status of its members and recognise the expertise of those they represent
- Collaborate with training bodies and tertiary institutions to ensure that qualifications align with the skills needed in the industry
- Provide a forum for networking that facilitates the exchange of information and ideas among industry professionals
- Develop models of best practices that can be adopted across the sector, and offer continuous professional development opportunities that empower members to grow and succeed
With this new structure, SAWIPB is better equipped than ever to fulfil its mission, offering members a clear pathway to recognition, development, and professional excellence. The
next step for SAWIPB is to complete registration with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) to designate people to work across the various parts of the value chain.
South Africa Wine’s support for SAWIPB stems from a shared commitment to elevate the quality and reputation of South African wines internationally. "South Africa Wine invests in the industrys future by backing this independent body, ensuring it thrives through a strong foundation of skilled and recognised professionals," says South Africa Wine CEO Rico
Basson.
“We encourage all industry professionals, affiliates, and training service providers to join SAWIPB at www.sawipb.co.za,” says Ross. “Becoming a member provides valuable
opportunities for growth and development and positions you at the forefront of an industry increasingly recognised for its excellence. Let’s build a brighter future for South African wine.”