Hotel du Vin’s Celeste Klem wins Runner-Up: National Business Woman of the Year 2026

Hotel du Vin in Franschhoek is proud to announce that its General Manager and Co-Owner, Celeste Klem, has been named Runner-Up in the South African Business Woman of the Year 2026 category at the South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) National Recognition Awards.

The national accolade recognizes an important milestone in Klem’s professional journey and highlights her commitment to leadership, entrepreneurship, and creating meaningful opportunities for women in business.

Representing the Cape Winelands at the national gala awards, Klem progressed through a rigorous recognition process that included demonstrating business ownership, submitting financial documentation, and verification of the businesses operating under her management.

For Klem, recognition represents far more than a personal achievement. It reinforces her vision of using business leadership as a platform to empower others, create opportunities, and contribute to meaningful change.

“What a journey it has been. I am so proud to receive this recognition on a national level. I am grateful to everyone who has believed in me and supported the work we are doing. My hope is that this achievement will open doors for other women and encourage them to pursue their ambitions, build businesses, and take their place in leadership,” says Klem.

She added that the achievement marks the beginning of a broader vision to expand Hotel du Vin’s impact beyond her immediate business responsibilities.

“I want to create an even broader business platform where women (and men) can connect, access opportunities, grow their businesses, and make a difference in their communities. This is bigger than an award. It is about what we can do with the opportunities and influence we are given.”

Leadership Beyond Hospitality

As General Manager of Hotel du Vin Franschhoek, a 4-star boutique hotel situated in the heart of Franschhoek, Klem brings her leadership experience to an industry built on people, service, and meaningful guest experiences. Her approach to leadership extends beyond hospitality operations, with a strong focus on developing people, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting initiatives that create opportunities for women.

Through her involvement in the SACBW (South African Council for Businesswomen) Klem has continued to champion collaboration, networking, and the economic participation of women. She believes that sustainable progress is achieved when women support one another, share knowledge, and actively create opportunities for others to succeed. Her national recognition also shines a spotlight on the Cape Winelands as a region where women entrepreneurs and business leaders are making a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s economy.

A Milestone, Not a Destination

For Klem, being named Runner-Up in the 2026 South African Business Woman of the Year category is both a moment of gratitude and a renewed commitment to the work ahead.

While celebrating the achievement, she remains humbled and focused on last impact.

“This achievement is not the finish line. It is motivation to do more and create opportunities for people who may not yet have access to the rooms where decisions are made. When one person progresses, they should be able to help another person move forward too.”

Hotel du Vin Franschhoek congratulates Celeste Klem on this significant national achievement and celebrates her continued commitment to leadership, entrepreneurship, and positive change.

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