In the build-up to Women’s Day on 9 August, Joekels Tea, manufacturers of some of South Africa’s most beloved tea brands, is celebrating the many women who are making a positive contribution and inspiring others in South Africa. These women have partnered with Joekels brands – Tetley, Laager, Tea4Kidz, and more – for several years, sharing their insights and experience to improve health and wellness, drive education, and spread positivity in Mzansi.

“Women’s Day is a time to honour the many women who are selflessly committed to improving the lives of those around them, and at Joekels, we are so fortunate to partner with some of South Africa’s most vibrant, influential, and kind-hearted women,” commented Candice Sessions, Joekels Marketing Manager. “We’d like to celebrate these women and encourage others by sharing some of their wisdom and aspirations this Women’s Day.”

Mbali Mapholi

Laager Rooibos, Tetley and Tea4Kidz health-education partner, The Urban Dietitian

“Women are Earth…Women are the ethereal embodiment of Earth itself, flourishing with boundless strength, resilience, and nurturing grace. Like the planet that sustains us, women possess an inherent ability to adapt, evolve, and nurture life. They are the keepers of wisdom, the guardians of love, and the catalysts for change.”

Q: What’s your proudest moment?

“One that undoubtedly shines brightly is the featured story in the December 2021 issue of Today magazine, showcasing the journey of dietitians from all corners of the globe, and highlighting the beautiful tapestry of our foods and holiday traditions. As a passionate dietitian, my unwavering belief has always been in empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to embrace nutrition within their own local and cultural contexts.”

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?

“I would tell her that, despite the fears that may encompass her, she possesses an indomitable spirit that will carry her through every endeavour. I would encourage her to trust her instincts unconditionally as she holds the key to unlocking her boundless potential. Every answer she seeks for her future resides within the depths of her being, waiting to be discovered.”

Q: What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future?

“Being a charismatic host of a community-focused television or radio show, revolving around the principles of nutrition education and holistic well-being, aiming to uplift people's lives in profound ways. I dream of creating a show that amplifies the voices of real people from all nine provinces, celebrating their unique indigenous ways of eating. Starting from the heart of my beloved hometown, the Zulu royal village of KwaNongoma, this endeavour would weave together a vibrant embroidery of cultures and nourish the souls of millions.”

Q: Which female figure has inspired you?

“The illustrious actress, Viola Davis, has been an unwavering source of inspiration in my journey. Her radiant spirit and resolute determination have shown me that pursuing my dreams knows no bounds, transcending societal barriers such as my background, socio-economic status, or skin colour. Her remarkable accomplishments stand as a testament to the power of resilience, reminding me that greatness lies within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.”

Tebo and Lebo Ndala @withlovefromthetwins

Laager Rooibos partners, chefs, food stylists, award-winning cookbook authors, sports nutritionists

“Women are a force to be reckoned with.”

Q: What’s your proudest moment?

“Our proudest moment is our most recent achievement – qualifying as Sports Nutritionists. We love food, we love health, and we love sports. We love that we get to combine all the things we love and also teach people about it.”

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?

“Never let fear hold you back. Experience is a great teacher. Have fun and always spread kindness.”

Q: What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future? 

“Our goal is to be successful in the sports industry, to make nutrition fashionable, and to inspire people with food and make people fall in love with different cultures through food. We want to travel to more countries and discover more food.”

Q: Which female figure has inspired you?

“The late Ma’m Dorah Sitole. She was our mentor and an incredible teacher. We are so blessed that we got to work with her and learn first-hand from her.”

Renee Lighton

Tea4Kidz partner, founder of LightOn Education, educational consultant, author, speaker, and life coach

“Women are powerful, contagious creators, and the more they value and appreciate themselves, and their being and doing, the more everyone gets to benefit.”

Q: What’s your proudest moment?

“For me, knowing I have created a career where I can be of service to a variety of clients, in a variety of ways, and have fun at the same time, brings me the great joy. The investments I have made, and will continue to make, in my own personal learning and growth, allow me to be flexible, creative, and resourceful. I especially love that I can provide a service for those who would perhaps have a challenge paying for their own coaching and training.”

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?   

“Acknowledge and accept all emotions. Emotions are information, even if you think it’s the end of the world, these feelings and this time will pass. You can choose your thoughts, your feelings, and your actions. It is takes daily practice, and with daily practice, a happier, healthier life is yours for creating.”

Q: What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future?

“I would love even more invitations from schools, NGOs, and corporates to facilitate collaborations and partnerships in ways that are resourceful - a hand-up as opposed to the handout we often get stuck in. My vision is shifting from silo work to sharing work as people let go of egos so that we all grow - now that excites and delights me.

And I believe massive change can be that simple.”

Q: Which female figure has inspired you?

“I have met and interacted with so many amazing women who inspire me. They show up, eager to learn through play at our Tea4Kidz and other workshops. Often, they come from very challenging circumstances, and their smiles, laughter, and willingness to learn inspire me to be and do more. They are, and always will be, my sparks in the dark, my inspiration. Ordinary women, being and doing the extraordinary, every day, with very little acknowledgement and praise.”

Carol Mkhize

Tetley Green Tea partner, model, actress, and fitness fanatic

“Women are POWERFUL!”

Q: What’s your proudest moment?

“Motherhood has been the most rewarding experience of my life! Being Naledi’s mother is what I am most proud of in life so far. Watching her grow up gives me so much joy. Her bravery and confidence make me so proud.”

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?

“Don’t let fear hold you back from pursuing your dreams and passions. It's okay to be scared but don't let your fears control you. Embrace the fear, take more risks and get out of your comfort zone.”

Q: What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future?

“I have a passion for travelling. One of my goals is to put in the work so I can spend my later days travelling the world with my family. My family will always be one of the most important aspects of my life. I want to create more travelling memories and be able to reflect on these one day. My ultimate goal is to live life to its absolute fullest, living a more mindful and engaged life.”

Q: Which female figure has inspired you?

“My mother inspires me more than words will ever explain. She is the most caring, selfless, and hard-working person I know. She’s taught me so much and continues to guide me even today. I am so blessed to have her in my life.”

Juanita Khumalo

Tetley Green Tea partner, Founder and CEO of TROVE Wellness, wellness entrepreneur

“Women are already strong; it’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength. Vulnerability is strength. Kindness is strength. Love is strength.”

Q: What’s your proudest moment/achievement?

“Leaving my corporate job to follow my passion and build my own company as a wellness entrepreneur. It has been one of the most challenging journeys I’ve embarked on, full of ups and downs, but nothing is as rewarding as knowing how many women’s lives I have been able to impact through my purpose-driven work.”

Q:  What advice would you give to your younger self?

“Love and embrace all parts of you, the beauty, discomfort and the flaws. They are what makes you perfectly imperfect. Be kinder and gentler with yourself, you’re doing the best you can. Laugh more, live and love wholeheartedly because you are worthy.”

Q:  What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future?

“Scaling my business TROVE Wellness throughout Africa and impacting women’s lives across the globe through providing them with wellness tools and resources to become the best versions of themselves.”

Q: Which female figure has inspired you?

“My mother, Vera Khumalo. She is strength, resilience, grace and love personified.”

Shaa'ista Kathree

Tetley Green Tea partner, Durban-based influencer

“Women are LIMITLESS!”

Q: What’s your proudest moment/achievement?

“Becoming a Mommy to my two kids, and watching them grow, each of them into their own person.”

Q:  What advice would you give to your younger self?

“You CAN do it!”

Q:  What one goal would you most like to achieve in the future?

“To run my own marketing and PR firm, helping small brands reach their potential.”

Q:  What advice would you give to your younger self?

“My do-it-all Supermom. Her strength and hard work as a mom, in her career, and as a grandmother is inspiring and motivates me to be better and do better.”

Celebrate the inspirational women in your life by sharing your stories, goals, and role models on the @LaagerRooibosTea and @TetleyTeaSA Instagram and Facebook pages. For recipe ideas, product information and health tips, visit www.joekels.co.za