Sisipho Zothana’s journey into the world of wine had an unexpected beginning at the picturesque Hillcrest Berry Farm. What started as a simple holiday job in grade 11 unfolded into a passion that would shape his future. Working in the freezer, packing jams and harvesting berries under the open sky at Hillcrest Berry Orchards, Sisipho found himself captivated by the process of creation. He was particularly intrigued by the use of Hanepoot in some of the jams.
He enrolled for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy (PYDA) in 2023. Through this programme, he was able to gain practical experience as a tasting room assistant at various wineries while also completing his WSET Level 2.
Towards the end of 2023, Sisipho secured a three-week placement at The Wine Arc through the PYDA. Thanks to his outstanding performance in the final week, he was offered a six-month contract with the company that runs a wine bar specialising in black-owned brands.
In 2024, Sisipho made WineLand Media's 30 Under 30 list – a list of 30 young professionals recognised for their contributions to the South African wine industry.