Ntsiki Biyela, from Stellekaya Winery talks to us about being the first black woman in the winemaking industry and how she went from being a domestic worker to a winemaker.
What did you study?I did a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, specialising in Viticulture and Oenology at Stellenbosch University,
When did you realise that you loved wine?I had never tasted wine before going to university. I only fell in love with it once I started studying.
When did you pursue it?I naturally wanted to pursue this career. Once I graduated, I applied for a job at Stellekaya and landed the position as winemaker in 2004
What are some of the challenges you face as the first black woman in the winemaking industry?
In the beginning it was difficult. People didn’t believe that I was actually a winemaker and so I always had to explain myself. But over time, I’ve built friendships and connections in the industry so it no longer matters that I’m black. I overcame these challenges by always looking on the positive side of things and I think that is what helped me in the beginning.
You were once a domestic worker. Please tell us how you left that job?
I grew up in rural KwaZulu-Natal and always wanted to study engineering after matriculating in 1996. I had no money to pay for my studies so I worked as a domestic worker to save money for school. I was recruited by Jabulani Ntshangase (my guardian) and got offered a scholarship by SAA to study winemaking at Stellenbosch University. I applied without ever speaking Afrikaans or tasting wine and was chosen.
What have been some of your biggest achievements?
Winning a gold medal and many other awards with my wine. I was chosen as Women Winemaker of the Year. I’ve collaborated with other international winemakers and consulted to wine estates in France.
You will be showcasing your wines at the Tops at SPAR wine show. How are you feeling about that?
It’s a great thing for us to be there and the consumer should look forward to tasting the fruits and products of my team, after all we produce excellent cabernet and that should be a highlight on their list of wines to taste.
What advice would you give someone who would like to follow your path?It’s important for a person to set a goal and stay focused. Hard work, determination and perseverance will pay off in the long run.
