It is their belief that medium-sized businesses within the wine /hospitality industries have a contribution to make towards the development of their own employees, both from a family wealth as well as a skills development point of view. They wished to enable the development of a company that would facilitate personal development of their employees – insisting on mutual commitment – and making use of the existing facilities and resources of the Diemersfontein Estate to launch a "company within a company". However, it is intended that as the company develops its individuals and its activities will be free to grow in directions outside of the "parent" company, developing independence and ability to function in the broader economy. Our focus will be on business mindedness, professionalism and the development of high standards in our working life.

Accordingly the Thokozani Company was born – in 2006.

It involves a "partnership" between Diemersfontein and its employees (those that voluntarily participate) to operate the Conference business at Diemersfontein, as well as the new Thokozani wine Brand. It has a central focus on Training. We are privileged to have a small number of external investors as well.

Assets including some f the cottages used for our conference delegates, and land for the construction of further accommodation will be acquired by the new company, which will trade as "Thokozani Conferences at Diemersfontein".Thokozani wines will trade alongside Diemersfontein wines offering ranges that supplement rather than compete with the well-established Diemersfontein Wine brand, but certainly matching it in quality. The first two Thokozani wines received silver medals at the Old Mutual Trophy wine show in 2006

Participation in the company by employees involves a firm commitment to develop in one's workplace role, as well as being part of workshops that focus on running small business, to ensure that participants have an opportunity to develop in their careers whilst simultaneously developing understanding of the way their own business is managed.

We at Diemersfontein /Thokozani are aware of the complexities and challenges involved in changing our society, its attitudes and its inequities. We hope to participate in the broader debate about "best practice" and sharing ways of achieving our ends and are happy to engage with like-minded individuals and organizations – we invite you to visit us!