The 2025 Wine Harvest Commemorative Event celebrated the outstanding contributions of five individuals who have set remarkable standards in the South African wine industry.
Praisy Dlamini, general Manager and winemaker at Adama Wines, was awarded the Growing Inclusivity Award for her dedication to reshaping the industry. Under her leadership, Adama Wines has become a powerful symbol of diversity, being entirely managed by a team of professional young black women.
Under the leadership of Praisy Dlamini, Adama Wines the proud owner of the HER Wine Collection brand, was recognised for its impact-driven scholarship fund, marking another significant milestone in its fifth year of producing exceptional wines and known for their consistent quality.
Dlamini was honoured alongside industry leaders that have been acknowledged and praised in previous years including Johann Krige, who received the 1659 Award for Visionary Leadership; Bennie Howard in the Wine Advancement category; and Jan Booysen in the Viti- and Viniculture category. The inaugural recipient in the new Wine Agri-Worker category was Marcus Lewis.
Dlamini's own journey from KwaZulu-Natal to becoming the first woman Protégé of the Cape Winemakers Guild demonstrates her commitment to breaking down barriers related to gender, race and socioeconomic background.
"When you stand for something and you are authentic about it then the global community will support you. It is important to respect the craft, for me to be here from 2010 until now means that I respected the journey", says
Through Dlamini's vision, Adama Wines has empowered young black women in the industry, creating pathways for future generations. The company allocates 2% of its profits to a bursary scheme, which provides critical financial support to aspiring professionals. This initiative not only nurtures talent but also ensures that tomorrow's leaders in winemaking and other sectors have the resources and support they need to succeed.
Dlamini's achievements extend beyond business. She has led Adama Wines to win numerous accolades, solidifying its reputation as a leader in promoting diversity. Dlamini exemplifies transformative leadership by pioneering inclusivity in the Cape Wine industry, making her a worthy recipient of this honour.
In addition to the bursary, Adama Wines has secured long-term lease agreements for the land where they grow their own grapes, as well as long-term supply contracts to support business growth. They oversee both the winemaking process and the marketing of their wines.
This, Dlamini believes is what gives Adama Wines a strategic advantage that has allowed it to compete in markets that were previously inaccessible to the majority and in turn, inspire others to follow in their footsteps.