Chocolate lovers who are on the look out for high quality chocolates that are produced using the finest ingredients and that are also gluten free, have found a champion in Sanja Hanekom, the founder of Noir Chocolates SA. She is creating delicious chocolate gifting ideas for individuals and corporates alike.
LoA chatted to the creative Sanja this month to learn more about this growing South African handmade chocolate brand.
What does your company do?
I manufacture handmade Belgian style pralines/chocolates, truffles and turn-down hospitality chocolates. Noir Chocolates SA creates chocolates that are characterized by their exceptionally beautiful glossy exterior, high cocoa content, and imported Belgian chocolate. Our chocolates are high quality with uniquely created, mouth watering and creamy centers with a 21st century twist. I also manufacture (unique in South Africa) gorgeous 71% cocoa content chocolates called Pink ladies filled with delectable white cherry panache cream. All our chocolates are elegantly presented in high quality clear PVC packaging decorated and customized according to clients’ specifications. Noir Chocolates SA creates chocolates that are almost too beautiful to eat.
"Our chocolates are high quality with uniquely created, mouth watering and creamy centres with a 21st century twist."
What inspired you to start your company?
I am by profession a Bcom in Tourism Management. My inspiration for starting up Noir Chocolates stems from the fact that beautiful, delicious chocolates make people smile.They relieve stress and tension and lighten up the conversation. I am addicted to seeing people taste my chocolates and enjoy them with all 5 senses. It is a unique sensual experience for the customer and a source of pride for me.
Why should anyone use your service or product?
If you are looking for the finer things in life... my chocolates are for you. They are definitely unique, healthier than any commercial ‘so called’ chocolates which are usually loaded with sugar, preservatives and paraffin wax. Mine are gluten free, 55-71% cocoa content, preservative free and freshly made! Enjoy them with all 5 senses... smell, sight, texture, distinct chocolate snap, ever changing taste, as it slides down your throat and wakes up all your taste buds. At least that is what fans say.
"My inspiration for starting up Noir Chocolates stems from the fact that beautiful, delicious chocolates make people smile."
Tell us a little about your team
Currently it is only me, but I am looking forward to employing more people and making South Africa proud, whilst at the same time putting our name on the global map for our chocolates.
Share a little about your entrepreneurial journey. And, do you come from an entrepreneurial background?
This is not my first venture. Previously I had my own international real estate marketing business focused on luxury, hospitality and agricultural real estate. I enjoyed that, but after my partner became ill due to cancer I decided to start a new venture. I come from an entrepreneurial family background, My family owned restaurants, hotels, bars, and graphic design companies. Currently I am also helping my dad with his NY based antique/restoration business.
"If you are looking for the finer things in life... my chocolates are for you."
What are your future plans and aspirations for your company?
Of course everybody has big plans, and mine is to grow, employ more people, become the best and put South Africa on the global map!
What gives you the most satisfaction being an entrepreneur?
Being able to see the smiles and satisfaction on your customers’ faces. It gives me a great sense of pride.
What's the biggest piece of advice you can give to other women looking to start-up?
Be yourself. I watch my little girl everyday and realize how much I have lost. Remember that everything is possible.
Contact or follow Noir Chocolates SA
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | EMAIL noir.chocolates.sa@gmail.com
Why LoA loves it….
It’s always wonderful to see women artisan entrepreneurs creating beautiful products that elicit happiness and pleasure on the part of those buying them, and that’s certainly the case with Sanja Hanekom. Her proudly South African, handmade chocolates are a reflection of the inspiration she takes from making people smile when they experience her beautiful chocolates. It’s why she is building a loyal following of chocolate lovers who love her philosophy and of course the wonderful chocolates she is creating. --- Melanie Hawken, founder and editor-in-chief of Lionesses of Africa