Originally from Hammanskraal, near Pretoria, Johannah grew up in a family where wine was not part of everyday life. Apart from the occasional glass of red wine enjoyed by her mother, she had little exposure to the industry that would eventually become her calling.
After matric, Johannah took a gap year to figure out her next move. She considered a career in modelling and spent time volunteering, helping children with their homework and even assisting at a local hospital, albeit only for a day. Neither path felt quite right. It was her uncle, Tshepo Morokong, then pursuing doctoral studies in agriculture at the University of Pretoria, who encouraged her to consider a future in the sector. A visit with him to a vegetable farm in Limpopo, together with exposure to his work at the university, sparked an unexpected interest.
"I became fascinated by agriculture," she recalls. "It felt exciting and full of possibility."
Determined to explore the field further, she applied to study viticulture and oenology at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) while also submitting an application for radiography at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (Medunsa). Accepted by both institutions, she ultimately followed her instincts and chose agriculture.
That decision would change her life.
Arriving in Cape Town for the first time, Johannah faced an immediate challenge: she had not yet secured accommodation. In true Johannah fashion, however, she tackled the obstacle head-on, choosing not to burden her mother with the uncertainty.
"When I set my mind to something, I do it," she says with a laugh. "However, everything was under control. I was not alone. I had made new friends and eventually found permanent accommodation.
"The journey was as important as the destination," she reflects. "I learned a lot about myself and developed confidence in my abilities and ambitions."
After completing her diploma and subsequently an advanced diploma, where integrated pest management formed part of her studies, Johannah entered the wine industry through a harvest position at KWV in 2023. She remained with the company as intern before moving into quality control.
In August 2024, she joined Nederburg as assistant winemaker, focusing on white wines.
"I don't think I've ever felt as happy as when I heard I'd been accepted for the position," she says. "I didn't know much about wine when I started this journey, but Nederburg is a household name. To become part of the team was incredible."
The move from Gauteng to the Cape wasn't without sacrifice.
"It was difficult leaving home. I probably drove my mom and grandmother crazy with worry," she admits. "But they taught me to follow my passion. They've always been my biggest supporters and role models."
At Nederburg, Johannah has found far more than a job. She has discovered an environment that nurtures her curiosity, challenges her thinking and broadens her understanding of wine far beyond the cellar.
"The growth through teamwork has been immense," she says. "Every day I learn something new. It's not just about winemaking; it's about understanding agriculture, science, markets, consumers and how different generations engage with wine. The exposure has been incredible."
For Johannah, the magic of winemaking lies in the intersection between science and creativity, underscored by passion. "As winemakers, we have to follow the science first, but we also need to recognise the art. And do so with passion. I've always loved science, but I also love self-expression, beauty and creativity. I think I'm exactly where I need to be."
One area she is particularly excited about is regenerative agriculture and its role in shaping the future of viticulture. It's a philosophy that aligns closely with Nederburg's longstanding commitment to sustainability; a message she firmly believes should be reaching the end consumer.
Long before regenerative viticulture became a global trend, Nederburg was implementing practices aimed at improving soil health, increasing biodiversity and strengthening climate resilience. From seasonal cover crops and biochar production to innovative water stewardship initiatives and ethical trade leadership, the winery continues to pioneer sustainable approaches across its vineyards and grower network.
For Johannah, being part of a business that prioritises both environmental responsibility and people-centred values is deeply meaningful.
Bubbly, extroverted and endlessly curious, she thrives on meeting new people and exploring new places. Based in Paarl, she spends her free time discovering the Cape Winelands and travelling whenever she can.
Her dedication and achievements have not gone unnoticed. Recently included in Wineland magazine’s annual 30 Under 30 for 2026, that celebrates the next generation of trailblazers in the South African wine sector, Johannah sees the accolade as more than a personal milestone.
"It’s made my family incredibly proud," she says.
From a young woman arriving in Cape Town with little more than ambition and a suitcase, to a rising talent helping shape the future of South African wine, Johannah's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most rewarding journeys begin with a leap into the unknown.