A group of University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) students have made their university proud after brewing up a batch of award-winning beer.
The students won the larger category of the SAB Brewing and Tasting InterVarsity Competition recently for their beer brewing and beer tasting skills.
The team of brewers include Qiniso Mthethwa, Phila Mbambo, Nkosinathi Doctor Ndlazi, Nothando Nxumalo and Sandile Mthembu.
Mr Mthethwa, a PhD student who serves as the team’s mentor, said the SAB Brewing and Tasting InterVarsity Competition is always an amazing experience.
“It goes beyond the thrill of brewing and winning. It’s a platform for learning and personal growth, I gained invaluable confidence through the competition – passion and determination can overcome any obstacle,” said Mr Mthethwa.
Ms Mbambo, an MSc candidate and brewing enthusiast, discovered her love for brewing during her time at UKZN.
“The SAB Brewing and Tasting Competition was a turning point for me, providing a unique platform to explore the intricacies of brewing. I used my technical skills and knowledge, particularly in yeast isolation for brewing. I will definitely continue my brewing journey and intend to showcase my love for the craft,” she said.
Mr Ndlazi, also an MSc candidate, discovered the world of brewing through the competition.
“It was an exciting and challenging experience, highlighting the diverse range of beers and testing techniques showcased,” said Mr Ndlazi. “Competing has not only improved my brewing knowledge and skills, but expanded my network in the industry, offering opportunities for growth and learning. My motivation to compete stems from the unquenchable desire to learn and improve my brewing skills.”
Ms Nxumalo, a Bachelor of Science graduate, found the competition to be enlightening.
“It opened her eyes to the scientific aspects of brewing and the wide range of career opportunities in the industry. Beyond academia, the competition highlighted the vast potential in the world of brewing. My motivation to participate is not just about winning, but about the love for brewing and representing UKZN with pride,” said Ms Nxumalo.
PhD student at the School of Life Sciences, Mr Mthembu said the competition was an incredible experience for him.
“The travel, interactions, and the chance to meet influential figures from various sectors make it a remarkable event. The benefits of competing go beyond the tangible, instilling confidence and the belief that passion and determination can overcome obstacles,” said Mr Mthembu.
The Beer Brewers team is a blend of diverse talents and expertise. Each member plays a crucial role in the team’s success. Be it mentorship, yeast isolation, brewing, or the intricate art of brewing lagers, a united team spirit is at the heart of their journey, the teammates said.
The team acknowledges the invaluable support from sponsors like BASA (Beer Association of South Africa) and Ab InBev, as well as the Microbiology department which provides essential infrastructure. With their backing, the Beer Brewers can continue to innovate and excel in the world of brewing.
The team said UKZN can further support their journey by increasing promotional awareness and funding for essential equipment. Promoting interest among undergraduate students to pursue postgraduate studies at the university is crucial for the team’s continuity, they added.
The skills nurtured through competitions like this offer a path to economic upliftment, especially in a country with high youth unemployment rates like South Africa.
Competitions such as the SAB Brewing and Tasting InterVarsity competition encourage beer education and show how it can be used to start businesses, rather than just seeking employment, the students said.
