Hailing from the small town of Butterworth and passionate about brewing, Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela holds the title of being the first black woman in SA to own a microbrewery.
Nxusani-Mawela, 37, who owns Roodepoort-based microbrewery Brewsters Craft, says she was first intrigued by the science of beer-making when she visited an open day at the then Rand Afrikaans University, now known as the University of Johannesburg.
She went on to complete her BSc degree from Wits and later her honours in microbiology from the University of Pretoria.
Nxusani-Mawela founded Brewsters Craft in 2015 and is a leading provider of training, quality analysis and consultant services within the SA brewing industry.
We are committed to offering high-quality services that ensures long-term sustainability of the African brewing sector
“We are committed to offering high-quality services that ensures long-term sustainability of the African brewing sector.
“We also provide service that has meaning, purpose and adds value to the industry,” she said.
Nxusani-Mawela said the company’s vision was to empower current and future brewers through education training.
“We want to play a positive and active role in the development of the African brewing industry.”
In 2010, she became the first person in SA to complete the National Diploma in Clear Fermented Beverages (NQF 6) through the Food-Bev SETA and Institute of Brewing — Africa Section.
She serves as chairperson of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling — Africa Section, and is also chairperson of the board of directors of the newly formed Beer Association of SA.
“One of the products that is doing well is Tolokazi Beer, it pays homage to the female brewers of the African soil, inspired by the Tolokazi clan’s rich history of brewing
“One of the products that is doing well is Tolokazi Beer, it pays homage to the female brewers of the African soil, inspired by the Tolokazi clan’s rich history of brewing.
“We are passionate about sharing with the world at large our history of brewing and take pride using mainly locally sourced ingredients.”
Nxusani-Mawela said Brewsters Craft produced six different types of beverages: African Pale Ale, Lager, Sorghum Pilsner, Rooibos and Berry Cider, Pineapple Cider and Hibiscus Hop Brew.
Explaining her products’ logos, Nxusani said they were inspired by Xhosa beadwork and patterns.
“The symbol was developed from the symbol of the goddess of creation, taken from the Nguni writing system, which is what influences the shapes and colours in Nguni craftwork.
“This symbol was modified to resemble the top of the hop in its pattern,” she explained.
Mawela-Nxusani’s clients are Distell, The Red Rock Brewing Company and Mad Giant.
We use the latest technology and brewing equipment to offer superior, quality products from a range of beer styles
“We use the latest technology and brewing equipment to offer superior, quality products from a range of beer styles.
“Our brewers are well-trained [and] have completed various brewing qualifications.
“Our Master Brewster has completed the Master Brewer qualification with the Institute of Brewing and Distilling and has more than 12 years practical brewing experience in both macro and micro manufacturing.”
On-site quality control and quality assurance services ensured consistent quality of all their products.
“Our two-vessel brewhouse has capacity of 1000l per batch, with 1000l and 2000l fermentation capacity.
“We have strict control and management throughout the process to ensure product quality and brand protection,” she said.
To purchase Tolokazi Beer, order via Facebook, Instagram, Tolokazibeer, or send an e-mail to tolokaziberr@brewsterscraft.co.za.
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