Hi Nobuhle. Please share, how you started your career in brewing.
I did not go the traditional route, which is typically a qualification in brewing, and went through a brewing traineeship to get brewing experience. I found myself brewing through my curiosity and willingness to learn and take on new challenges.
When I saw the job advert for this role, I knew it was a long shot but I was confident that with the work experience I had in the manufacturing industry and my qualification as a Food Scientist, I stood a good chance to make it. I have worked in the manufacturing industry for over 10 years, starting my career at the Eswatini Standards Authority (ESWASA), then had a short stint at Ngwane Mills as a Laboratory Supervisor.
I then proceeded to work at DD Williamson, a caramel manufacturing company for about 7 years as the quality manager where my passion for the industry grew and I knew I was on the right career path. This role shaped the person that I am today through the exposure to leadership and supply chain management responsibilities and it accelerated my growth which I believe prepared me for my current role. So when the brewing opportunity came along, I could not miss the chance to further expand my experience in production and take on new challenges.
Are people surprised when you tell them what you do for a living?
Most people are intrigued and are always interested in hearing more about how I got into brewing, how I manage the dynamics of being a female leader in a male-dominated industry, and mostly if I indulge in the product.
Well, we have to ask then, do you?
I do, my favorite being our local Sibebe Premium Lager, which is brewed to perfection.
What do you love the most about your job?
What is not to love about my job, should be the question. I get to head a very critical component of the organization and more than anything we get to put together a product that brings people happiness when consumed right. I also enjoy the challenges that come with the job daily, of ensuring that we maintain the brand integrity for the consumer experience.
Beer has high competition in the market and this always keeps me at the top of my game to ensure that we maintain consistent high quality of our products. I am also proud that I am part of a global company with over 500 brands in the market that touches millions of people and contributes to people’s happiness, like our global mantra says, ‘We dream big to create a future with more cheers’! All in all, I love that my personal goals align with those of the organization as a person who dreams the impossible and always strives to take on the next challenge in life.
What do you think can be done to get more women into the brewing industry, and the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields, by extension?
I think we need to raise awareness early on in girls’ lives so that they are aware of all opportunities available to them. This means we start building awareness at the primary school level through to high school so that when the time comes to choose subjects they are well informed. Early exposure through field visits and careers fairs where real women in brewing or STEM address the girl child so that they see that indeed it is possible. I believe this will enhance their confidence when choosing careers in the STEM fields.
Have you drawn professional inspiration from other women? Tell us about someone who has inspired you in your journey.
Yes, of course, women are doing great things and are taking up spaces in different industries and I love it for us. I am largely inspired by all women in all spheres because I am generally exposed to the challenges they face in life. This is also true for women running their businesses including those who make a living through selling their wares on the streets.
I draw professional inspiration from a lot of women, but, if I must name one, I will go with my good friend, Gciniwe Fakudze. I love that she continues to show us that with determination, hard work, commitment, and the right attitude you can excel in any field you find yourself in.
Thank you for your time.
You are most welcome.
Note: This story was first published in Standard Bank Eswatini Blue Sheroes Women’s Month Supplement, which was done in partnership with Inside Biz.