Women in the industry, like Wendy Pienaar of Just Brewing Co. acknowledge the challenges they face not from competitors within the brewing community but rather from misconceptions and societal attitudes. Picture: SuppliedIn a shifting tide of cultural norms, women in South Africa are boldly stepping into the world of brewing andappreciation, challenging long-held stereotypes that have relegated female consumers to the sidelines.
Basa chief executive officer Charlene Louw emphasised the importance of inclusivity, stating: “Beer drinking is not only a social activity that brings people together; it also underpins substantial economic activity that creates jobs and develops skills.” “At events, I was often seen as merely the server while my partner would get asked all the brewing questions,” noted Gemmell.
Both Pienaar and Gemmell also highlight the physical demands of running a craft brewery, pointing out that women have not traditionally been taught the technical skills necessary in the brewing industry.