Sean Barber Many Years of Phenomenal Success with Rockets
A Journey from Numbers to Nightlife
Sean Barber’s path to success has been anything but conventional. Originally aspiring to be a professional sportsman, a rugby injury at age 15 forced him to pivot towards accounting. Qualifying as a chartered accountant, Sean worked in major financial hubs like New York and London. However, his true passion lay elsewhere—creating unforgettable hospitality experiences.
His time in Wimbledon Village, London, sparked an interest in the restaurant and nightlife industry. Despite having no formal hospitality training, Sean launched his first Rockets establishment in 2007. What started as a single venue has since evolved into a dynamic lifestyle brand, encompassing restaurants, clubs, rooftops, salons, record labels, and more.
Rockets: A Brand of Excellence and Resilience
More than just a restaurant chain, Rockets has become a symbol of excellence in South African hospitality and entertainment. The brand has garnered multiple prestigious awards, including:
- Best Restaurant in South Africa (2018)
- Best Bar in Africa, Middle East, and Asia (2018)
- Best Tapas (2019)
- Best Lifestyle Restaurant (2021, 2022, 2024)
Rockets continues to push boundaries with significant milestones in recent years. The opening of Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga brought a vibrant new experience to the coastal city, while the revamped Rockets Bryanston remains a premier nightlife and dining destination in Johannesburg. Additionally, Sean’s launch of Rockets Media marks his bold expansion into the music industry, reinforcing the synergy between hospitality and entertainment.
Passion for Developing South African Talent
At the core of Sean Barber’s vision is a deep commitment to nurturing South African talent. With the establishment of Rockets Media, he is creating new platforms for both emerging and established artists to showcase their artistry. Rockets venues are not just places to dine—they are creative hubs where musicians, DJs, and entertainers can connect with audiences.
Sean believes in the immense potential of South African talent and is actively shaping the industry by providing performance opportunities and promoting local culture through Rockets Media.
Supporting South African Talent and the Future of Rockets
Beyond business success, Sean’s journey is about elevating the South African entertainment and hospitality landscape. Rockets has created jobs, nurtured talent, and set new standards for dining and nightlife experiences. Looking ahead, Rockets Media and the launch of the Dance Afrika record label will further cement the brand’s status as a cultural trendsetter.
Despite his demanding schedule, Sean prioritizes family life, embracing the motto: “Be the best you can be.” This philosophy guides both his professional and personal endeavors.
Recent Highlights and Industry Recognition
Sean Barber’s influence extends beyond hospitality. He was recently a guest speaker at the GQ and Standard Bank SA Business Masterclass, engaging in a live Q&A with GQ’s Editor-in-Chief, Molife Kumona, discussing his entrepreneurial journey. His work was also recognized at the prestigious GQ Grooming Masterclass with the launch of Rockets Man, the brand’s barber chain.
Five Fast Facts About Sean Barber
- He is a qualified chartered accountant.
- He once worked at Paramount Pictures in London.
- His love for creativity led him into the restaurant industry.
- Sean is known for his incredible work ethic, often putting in 100+ hour weeks.
- The name “Rockets” was inspired by an underground bar in Putney, London.
Sean Barber’s visionary leadership has turned Rockets into one of South Africa’s most celebrated lifestyle brands. With an unwavering commitment to creativity, quality, and community, he continues to pave the way for future entrepreneurs and entertainers alike.
For more information on Rockets: www.rocketslife.tv
Follow Rockets Bryanston on Instagram: @rockets.life