On 21 May 2021, Nako Timepieces joined other sponsors to collaborate with Protea Hotel by Marriot Masa Square in a celebration of the 2021 International Tea Day with Five Roses.
Tea enthusiast, Oratile Kefitlhile, hosted guests during an intimate tea party. The celebration was aimed at paying homage to the beverage’s long standing history, as well as the cultural and economic significance of tea around the world.
International Tea Day promotes and fosters collective actions to implement activities that favour the sustainable production and consumption of tea and raise awareness of its importance in fighting hunger and poverty.
Speaking at the event, Five Roses Sales Operations Manager, Andre Van Wyk, noted: “Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. While May 21st might seem like an arbitrary date chosen by the United Nations, the significance of celebrating during this month is that most tea producing countries begin production in May. Tea is known for its relaxing and therapeutic benefits, and as the month of May also signifies Mental Health Awareness month, what better way to de-stress than with this centuries old delicacy!”
The tea party boasted an array of local sponsors and partners, including White Label Fragrances, Nako Timepieces and Phollala Events. Five Roses showcased an array of over 14 exotic flavours, including Puree Peppermint, Mixed Berries, Pure Chamomile, Passion Fruit and Ruby Orange, all of which release a fragrant aroma once the silken teabags are immersed in hot water.
Reached for comment on their participation as a sponsor, Co-founder and Partner at Nako Timepieces, Gabriel Mothibedi, responded: “It was our pleasure to be a part of the International Tea Day celebrations by Protea by Marriott Masa Square Hotel. Our sponsorship for the event consisted of four Nako Timepieces, three ‘Three Dikgosi’ Edition Slimline ‘Moonlit’ watches worth P6,200, two ruby-red watches, and two azure for men and a ruby-red for women. We also gave five ‘Three Dikgosi’ Edition Slimline ‘Moonlit’ watches to key speakers and lifestyle entrepreneurs, Ratie Kefitlhile, Brando Keabilwe, Thabang Mmolotsi and Mothusi Lesolle, in celebration and recognition of their business leadership.”
Conversations on the day varied from issues around the impact of the pandemic on careers, entrepreneurship and wellness dimensions. The General Manager of Protea Hotel, Hayden Bowl, enthused: “We are thrilled to have been part of Botswana`s first International Tea Day celebrations. The previous year was challenging for us all and not many can say it was their cup of tea. But as Protea Hotel, we are taking the first steps towards creating new positive memories. One of the great joys of tea is being able to enjoy a vast variety of teas from around the world at very affordable prices.
Legend has it that in 2737 BC, Shen Nung, a Chinese Emperor sat under a tree while his servant was boiling drinking water when some leaves from the tree blew into the water. The tree was a Camellia Sinensis. This resulted in what we now call tea today.
