Prayer, family top the list
Vivacious businesswoman and socialite Vika Shipalana, who is a former prestige director of international liquor giant Pernod Ricard, is the founder of VBS Luxury Group and former brand ambassador for Estee Lauder.
Who has been your greatest inspiration in your life?
There are too many to count but, in essence, I would have to say all the strong women in my life inspire me. My mom, however, is my ultimate role model, friend and mentor.
Describe your best moment of relaxation, and which drink do you normally settle down with?
The best moment of relaxation for me has to be my daily morning prayer and meditation session in my quiet room at home. I normally drink a nice herbal tea and a glass of water.
What is your favourite drink and dish?
My favourite drink is gin and tonic and my favourite dish currently is lentil curry and brown rice from Fruit and Roots at Hobart Grove in Bryanston.
What has been the most memorable highlight of your career?
I think my time at Pernod Ricard as the prestige director for SA has to to be the best time of my life in corporate South Africa thus far.
Where have you had your best holiday so far?
I think all the island holidays that we’ve done as a family, Mauritius, Zanzibar, and others.
What made the holiday special?
It’s very difficult in these times we live in to take the time out to be with the people who matter most. So, I always look forward to those times when we take our long family holidays and travel somewhere far and all I have to worry about when I wake up is: “Which bikini am I going to wear today?”
Which is your favourite restaurant?
Signature Morningside because my friend owns it. Just kidding. They are by far one of the best restaurants when it comes to service in the world, truly! And I love that it’s blackowned. #blackexcellence.