As South Africans, we are no strangers to the increased pace of change across all spectrums of our lives. The continual transformation of our societies is driven by fresh perspectives and the dynamic energy of innovators. Likonelo (Koni), is one such trailblazer.

“I felt that the time was right to open up things in the wine industry – to introduce more diversity! The best way to do that was to become a wine entrepreneur and make a difference from within.”

Roots

Born in Soweto, Gauteng as the oldest of three daughters, Koni was raised in rural Eastern Cape before settling in metropolitan Cape Town, Western Cape. Nurtured in a protected but loving environment, Koni developed into the energetic, charismatic and jovial personality we know today.
Koni’s values are adopted from her grandparents, who were community leaders in the village where she spent her formative years. She considers them her role-models as their guidance and love gave her confidence and taught her to be resilient and self-reliant. Her family life was filled with music, storytelling and the spirit of Ubuntu.
“I am shaped by principles of hard work, courage, honesty, respect, and inclusivity.”
An alumni of Bethel High and the Universities of Cape Town, Stellenbosch and UNISA, Koni spent more than a decade reaching the pinnacle of learning & development and human resource management at financial institutions such as Metropolitan Life and Sanlam.
“I believe that all humans given a chance, can be great! To be great comes with responsibility to also serve others and inspire them to do the same!”

Learnings

With her varying interests, she considered careers in music, fashion and journalism. Life however, handed her the opportunity to shape the skills of others, which developed into ambitions of becoming an entrepreneur. The key competencies she regards as having learnt are relationship building, problem solving, strong ethics and leadership – but also serving others.
An avid reader, Koni spends a lot of time considering topics that can influence her beliefs and aids her in business.
“A favourite quote is “Dreams only die if you let them starve”.

A different path

In 2015, Koni started her wine brand, Koni Wines.
“One of the reasons I started the business was to stretch myself into newness, I was tired of the known and wanted to totally learn something new.”
Although facing initial challenges, with her can-do attitude and positive mentality she has gained a loyal fan club for her wines. One of her champions view her wines as key to their Friday “unwinding” sessions.
Koni views the wine industry as a sector that will benefit from new ideas and mind-sets from the diverse cultures in our country. The philosophy with the production of her wines is experiencing the quintessential varietals in the traditional style, making it perfect for all wine drinkers.
“I also work on converting non wine drinkers who may be intimidated by wine language and culture.“

A brand to take note of

Koni Wines is synonymous with consistent quality. Experts rate it as easy but sophisticated wine range, of which four wines received gold awards in wine competitions. Her brand speaks of warmth and vibrancy, bringing people together and celebrating the gift of life!
This is an African tale worth telling!
“I observed that each time a bottle of wine is opened, people love telling stories, but we also need to turn these moments into engaging, fruitful conversations about our heritage as citizens of South Africa!”