As South Africa marks Women’s Month, Groot Constantia is celebrating the women whose compassion, dedication and leadership have helped shape the heart of the country’s oldest wine-producing farm. Among them is Siena Jordaan, whose 27-year journey is a story of unwavering care – a woman whose greatest legacy is not measured in years of service, but in the lives she has touched.
Established in 1685, Groot Constantia is South Africa’s National Treasure, with a history spanning more than three centuries. While its wines have earned international acclaim, the estate’s greatest strength has always been its people – those who continue to drive its legacy forward, working together to build not only on past achievements but towards a future of shared growth and enduring success.
Siena embodies that spirit.
Siena joined Groot Constantia nearly three decades ago. “My first role was in the kitchen, and while it was hard work, I loved being part of the team,” says Siena. “It taught me the importance of serving others and gave me the opportunity to build relationships with the people who make Groot Constantia such a special place.”
Although the work was demanding, she embraced it with the same warmth and dedication that would come to define her career.
Years later, an opportunity arose to join the estate’s crèche – a role that would become far more than a job.
“I’ve always had a love for children,” she says. “Being able to care for them, help them learn, encourage their curiosity and watch them grow has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.”
For more than a decade, Siena has been a constant source of comfort and stability for the children of Groot Constantia employees, creating a space where they feel safe, valued and encouraged. Her kindness, patience and unwavering presence have earned the trust of generations of families.
“The children are the reason I look forward to coming to work every day,” she says. “Seeing them gain confidence, learn something new or simply arrive with a smile reminds me why this work matters. The Christmas plays, concerts and everyday moments we’ve shared will stay with me forever.”
Over the years, Groot Constantia has become much more than a workplace.
“This has never felt like just a job,” Siena reflects. “It has become my second home. I’ve been surrounded by people who have supported me through every stage of my life, and for that I will always be grateful.”
As she prepares for retirement, Siena hopes to continue working with children and sharing the same compassion that has guided her career.
Her advice to those who follow is simple but profound.
“Whatever you do, do it with love,” she says. “Children need to feel safe, cared for and accepted. When people walk through these doors, they should feel that they belong. If you can give someone that feeling, you’ve done something truly worthwhile.”
As Groot Constantia celebrates Women’s Month, Siena Jordaan’s story is a reminder that some of the most enduring legacies are built through everyday acts of kindness. For nearly three decades, she has done far more than care for children – she has helped build the sense of family and belonging that lies at the heart of Groot Constantia.
Stay connected with Groot Constantia on Facebook and Instagram @GrootConstantia. For more information and to explore their rich heritage further, visit www.grootconstantia.co.za.
