Nxusani-Mawela, is redefining what it means to lead in the beer industry. With a career in science and a vision focused on empowerment, she is not only building a successful brand but reshaping the landscape of African brewing. As founder of Tolokazi Beer, She has developed a brand that merges cultural heritage with modern brewing techniques. Named after her Xhosa clan, Tolokazi is known for its innovative use of indigenous ingredients such as sorghum, marula fruit, hibiscus, and rooibos.
These unique African elements are thoughtfully incorporated into a product line that includes craft beer, cider, and non-alcoholic alternatives positioning the brand as both distinctive and globally relevant. But her impact extends far beyond product development.
In 2025, Nxusani-Mawela launched the Brewsters Academy, a six-month technical and practical training program designed to teach young Black professionals predominantly women in the art and science of brewing. Located in Johannesburg, the academy offers a comprehensive curriculum covering fermentation, quality control, packaging, and production management, followed by a six-months hands-on work placement in local breweries.
Nxusani-Mawela’s journey has not been without challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her initial brewery operations were forced to close due to extended lockdowns and licensing hurdles. Unshaken,she pivoted her business model, shifting to contract brewing and international distribution. A major milestone came when Tolokazi Beer partnered with UK craft beer platform Beer52, exporting over 200,000 cans to 100,000 subscribers across Europe. Her brand has received industry-wide recognition, including a Platinum Crushie at the Craft Beer Marketing Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2025 African Beer Cup for Tolokazi’s flagship brew, Wild African Soul.
Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela is more than a brewer, she is a catalyst for transformation, proving that cultural authenticity, scientific expertise, and inclusive leadership can pave the way for a new generation of African creators.