Wine industry leader cites Pope Francis as key influence

Rachael Carter, the founder and managing director of Soho Family Vineyards, told the Boss Life feature in The Post about her admiration for the late Pontiff.

“I was brought up in a strict Catholic household, something which I am truly grateful for as it entrenched in me a deep belief of a greater good,” Ms Carter said.

“However, like with many religions, there was always a type of conditioning to think a certain way.

“I think Pope Francis broke the mould in this sense. He was the essence of compassion, kindness and inclusion. For me, he made me want to be a better person and be more open-minded, something I had often struggled with.

“I can now gladly say I have become more open and accepting about many things in life. He really was such a great leader that led with his heart and often I am reminded of his saying ‘never remain on the sidelines of this march of living hope’.”

When asked if billionaires should exist, Ms Carter said “yes, for sure”.

“I don’t believe we should judge people based on their wealth, but we should judge them on their generosity of heart. Like with all humans, there are billionaires who are the best people and billionaires who are the worst people,” she said.

If she was a billionaire, among other things, she would start a charitable trust “to help kids, people and animals that need help”.

Ms Carter began her career working with her late father, John Carter, a pioneer of the New Zealand wine industry, before founding one of the country’s first wine screwcap manufacturing plants. After selling that business, she created Soho, which produces wines from Waiheke Island, Marlborough and Central Otago.

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Boss Life: Wine business founder cites Pope Francis as a key influence (The Post – subscription required)