1. Can you please tell us more about your business?
Hazile Group is a South African climate-smart agribusiness focused on sustainable food systems, renewable energy, and water stewardship. We grow and process herbs both fresh and dried, as well as some condiments, and are currently expanding into functional foods and herbal teas under the Hazile Dried Spices line.
We also innovate in eco-farming with modular systems that use recycled and solar-integrated materials to grow food in low-resource areas. We also empower women and youth in agriculture through training and an entrepreneurship programme.
2. When, how, and why did you start your business?
I started Hazile Group in 2018 (with a forced Covid-induced stop in 2020 and a re-start in 2022), but the seeds were planted much earlier. After personal and professional challenges, including job loss and being a young widow, to raising 4 kids alone, I chose to redefine my journey.
A pivotal moment came while sourcing herbs at the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market. I saw gaps in the value chain and knew I could build something both sustainable and inclusive. What started as a resilience project has grown into a purpose-driven enterprise committed to food security and women’s empowerment.
3. What is your role in the business?
I serve as Founder and CEO, but I wear many hats: visionary, strategist, product developer, fundraiser, and mentor. I also work closely with our community partners and nonprofits to ensure our business growth translates into real impact.
4. Where did you study, and what did you study?
I hold an MBA and have recently completed a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), both of which have been pivotal in shaping how I lead and grow Hazile Group. My DBA thesis explores how women can leverage technology to farm sustainably and scale their agribusinesses, a subject that deeply aligns with my mission to build inclusive, climate-resilient food systems. I have a background in HR, which gave me a strong foundation in human behaviour, systems thinking, and organisational development.
5. How did you finance your business?
Initially, I financed it through small consulting jobs and personal savings; every rand was stretched. As the business grew, I reinvested revenue and sought out grant funding, accelerator programmes, and strategic partnerships. Our growth has been gradual but purposefully rooted in sustainability and ownership.
6. Describe your average workday, if such a thing exists.
No two days are the same! I might start with field visits to our hydroponic sites, then pivot to strategy calls, grant writing, or product testing. Afternoons often involve mentoring or team check-ins. Evenings are for reflection, planning, or sometimes just rest, which I’ve learned to prioritise, too
7. How do you balance your home life and your work life?
With intention, compassion, and a lot of planning. As a mother of four, my kids are all central to my why. I’ve also learned that balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about aligning priorities and giving myself grace. I honour both my roles as a present parent and as a purpose-driven entrepreneur by being clear about boundaries, values, and the importance of rest and joy.
8. What drives you and inspires you?
I’m driven by the belief that African women can be architects of their own futures, not just survivors of systems. I’m inspired by my daughters, by nature’s wisdom, and by women in farming communities who rise each day with purpose despite the odds.
9. Where and when do you have your best ideas?
Often during quiet moments, early morning work at the farm, listening to music, or journaling. Space and stillness allow new ideas to surface. I also get inspired while working directly with women and youth in the field, which grounds innovation in lived experience.
10. Where and how do you market/advertise your business for sales leads?
We use a mix of word-of-mouth, social media (particularly Instagram and WhatsApp Business), and partnerships with local restaurants, wellness shops, and hospitality schools. We also pitch at sustainability and food system events to connect with buyers and funders.
11. What is next for your business?
We’re piloting our Eco-Farm Pod innovation, expanding the Hazile product line to include nutraceutical snack cubes and herbal teas, and building out a climate-focused training academy for women in agribusiness. We’re also exploring export markets and deeper engagement with policy platforms like the G20/B20 and UN Global Initiatives.
12. What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs hoping to start their own business?
Start where you are, with what you have, purpose is often born in discomfort. Build slowly but boldly, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Know your values and guard them fiercely. And most importantly, surround yourself with women who will challenge you, support you, and celebrate your wins as their own.
Biography
A social entrepreneur and thought leader in climate resilience and winner of the 2025 Veuve Clicquot Bold Future Award, Dr. Phindi leads Hazile Group, a black woman-led enterprise driving climate-smart solutions in agriculture, energy, and water. The company’s core mission is to address food insecurity, water scarcity, and energy transition while uplifting marginalised communities. Hazile’s focus on rural development, empowering farmers, and integrating climate-smart technologies directly supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals, notably zero hunger, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and climate action.
She also runs Acumind Consulting, guiding organisations toward inclusive, values-driven leadership and ESG strategies. With clients across Southern Africa, her work bridges environmental innovation with social impact and policy change.
What does it mean to you to be a bold woman?
“It means challenging the status quo, leading with authenticity, and inspiring others through purposeful action. It’s about transforming challenges into opportunities and paving the way for future generations of women leaders”.
