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Duhan van der Merwe is one of Scotland’s most dynamic and recognisable rugby players, renowned for his powerful running, pace, and instinctive finishing. Born in George, South Africa, he has established himself as a standout force on the international stage, becoming Scotland’s record try scorer and a constant threat to any defence.

At 6’4” (1.93 m) and 106 kg, Duhan’s imposing frame is matched by agility and sharp rugby intelligence. His club career has taken him through elite teams like Montpellier, Worcester Warriors, and now Edinburgh Rugby.

Duhan brings a relentless drive and global perspective to Hirundine. His approach off the pitch is no different to his on field one —focused, ambitious, and uncompromising on quality. His passion for whisky and his instinct for building authentic connections have been instrumental in shaping Hirundine’s identity, helping to introduce the brand to a new generation of whisky drinkers around the world.

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Pierre Schoeman is a powerhouse in Scottish rugby—known for his passion, energy, and fan-favourite status. Born in Nelspruit, South Africa, he brings strength, agility, and an infectious spirit to every match, earning respect on the field and a deep connection with supporters off it.

That same authenticity defines Pierre’s role within Hirundine. He has a rare ability to connect with people on a genuinely personal level, whether he’s speaking with CEOs, industry partners, or young fans discovering the game for the first time. This openness sits at the heart of the brand. Pierre makes people feel part of the story, helping shape Hirundine into something approachable, considered, and real. Combined with his curiosity and respect for craftsmanship, he ensures every release stays true to its roots while building meaningful, lasting relationships around the world.

David Whiteford is the “other founder”—a former international rugby player with four caps and one try for Hong Kong, which, by his own admission, doesn’t quite stack up against his co-founders’ on-field achievements. As a result, he’s made it his mission to add value everywhere else.

Bringing a sharp commercial mind and deep experience in brand building to the whisky industry, David plays a central role in shaping Hirundine behind the scenes. From cask selection to partnerships and long-term strategy, he ensures the business runs as well as the whisky tastes. Balancing a lighter touch with a clear vision, David helps keep Hirundine grounded, focused, and always moving forward—proving that while he may contribute less on the scoreboard, he more than makes up for it where it counts.

Nika van der Merwe is a driving force behind Hirundine’s voice and community. A seasoned digital marketing expert, she brings a sharp instinct for storytelling, audience building, and brand connection, with experience spanning lifestyle, hospitality, and wellness. Her ability to create content that resonates—while building engaged, loyal communities—has become central to how Hirundine shows up in the world.

With a natural understanding of people and platforms, Nika has cultivated a strong, sport-loving and lifestyle-focused audience that aligns seamlessly with the brand. But her role goes far beyond marketing. She brings energy, intuition, and a deep belief in what Hirundine stands for—championing its ethos of defying convention and celebrating character. From shaping the brand’s tone to driving its presence across key channels, Nika has played a pivotal role in turning Hirundine into more than a whisky—it’s a community people want to be part of.

Charissa Schoeman brings clarity, creativity, and strategic thinking to the heart of Hirundine. A seasoned creative strategist and entrepreneur, she has extensive experience in brand development, storytelling, and strategic communications, having led impactful projects across a range of industries. Her ability to shape ideas into compelling, cohesive narratives plays a key role in defining how Hirundine looks, feels, and connects with its audience.

With a Bachelor’s in Business Management and a Master’s in Strategic Communications & Public Relations, Charissa combines academic rigour with real-world execution. She has a sharp eye for detail and a deep understanding of what makes a brand resonate—ensuring every touchpoint, from visual identity to messaging, reflects Hirundine’s character and ambition.