André G. Shearer

Andre Shearer is a visionary leader in wine, philanthropy, and cultural preservation. As the founder and Chairman of Cape Classics and the Indaba Foundation, he has transformed the global perception of South African wine and driven impactful social change.

 

With nearly three decades at the helm of Cape Classics, Andre built the company into the leading importer of South African wines to the U.S., championing quality, sustainability, and diversity across a curated portfolio of premier South African and French producers. His passion for social justice led to the creation of the Indaba Foundation, focused on Early Childhood Development (ECD) and women’s empowerment in South Africa’s underserved communities. The foundation equips ECD practitioners with resources and world-class Montessori-based training, fostering transformation at the roots of human development.

 

A compelling speaker, Andre shares insights into entrepreneurship and social impact with charisma and clarity, inspiring audiences across philanthropic and industry platforms. His unique blend of business acumen and purpose-driven leadership has earned him accolades, including Wine Enthusiast’s Importer of the Year, Food & Wine Magazine’s Importer of the Year, and the Desmond Tutu Phelophepa Achievement Award.

 

Andre Shearer continues to redefine the intersection of commerce and compassion, proving that business can be a force for good—nurturing human potential, preserving cultural heritage, and creating a more equitable future.