23/07/2026
Mandela Day reminds us that what defines a business is not only what it produces, but how it chooses to show up in the world.
Reflecting on Nelson Mandela's words, "what counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead" we were reminded that meaningful change is often built through small acts of commitment, repeated over time.
For more than sixteen years, Bouchard Finlayson has quietly supported the Hermanus Rainbow Trust in its work with children and families in our community. This Mandela Day, our team was honoured to give our time to support their work at their Eluncedweni Centre in the heart of Zwelihle Township. The Bouchard Finlayson team partnered with Pretty Dube, Trust Manager, and Bathandile Siwendela, Social Worker, and the rest of the Rainbow Trust team to complete maintenance work at the Centre and prepare soup, fruit and juice for more than 265 children. Together with the children, our team created a beautiful rainbow wall, a daily reminder to all that the Centre is a safe place; a place to dream
We were also honoured to be joined by the Department of Education, Department of Social Development and the Hermanus Times. Sybil Domm Pretorius, founder of Dignity to Rise, also joined us; whose vision of a poverty-free Overstrand speaks to what becomes possible when people, organisations and communities unite around a shared purpose.
At Bouchard Finlayson, we believe "Excellence isn't the aspiration. Excellence is the standard." For us, that standard extends far beyond the wines we make.
As Claire Reitz, Head of People & Culture, shared during our Mandela Day gathering, "Exceptional wines can only come from an exceptional business" and an exceptional business is defined by more than quality, it is defined by care.
Whether tending vineyards, welcoming guests, supporting a child, or rolling up our sleeves to serve our community, each of us has the opportunity to make a difference.
The things worth building are rarely built in a day. They are built patiently, thoughtfully, and with care.
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