OnTap Magazine

ontapmag.co.za | Spring 2025 | 7 For decades, beer in South Africa was branded a man’s drink, produced and traded in a man’s world. That image is being dismantled — one brew, one business, and one breakthrough at a time. Women across the value chain are bringing innovation, resilience, and collaboration to the industry. This Women’s Month, BASA profiles three trailblazers: brewer Megan Gemmell, township distributor Pulane Koster, and Heineken SA Quality Manager Makgosi Booysen — women challenging stereotypes and proving beer’s future is female too. FROMKITCHEN EXPERIMENTS TO INDUSTRY ADVOCATE Megan started brewing small batches for friends. Curiosity became craft, craft became career. Today, she is an award- winning brewer, educator, and advocate for inclusivity in the sector. “Earning respect through passion and knowledge has been key,” she says, championing traditional African brewing and encouraging more women to join the industry. DRIVING TOWNSHIP TRANSFORMATION Pulane saw beer as both a beverage and an economic force. Rising through operations into leadership, she empowers women-led distributors and marketers in rural areas. “Women bring a leadership style rooted in collaboration, empathy, and shared growth. That’s what transforms industries,” she reflects. GUARDING QUALITY, INSPIRING FUTURE SCIENTISTS Makgosi’s path into beer began unexpectedly through biochemistry studies. As a Quality Manager, she ensures every beer delivers on its promise. “Mentorship keeps you grounded and helps you push through moments when giving up seems easier,” she says, crediting women mentors for inspiring her journey. INNOVATION BEYOND THE BREWERY From Megan’s heritage ingredients to Pulane’s community- based marketing and Makgosi’s science-driven quality control, these women are driving local economies, creating jobs, and challenging outdated perceptions. BASA CEO Charlene Louw puts it plainly: “The beer industry is richer, more innovative, and more sustainable when women are part of its leadership and value chain.” These stories are proof that South Africa’s beer industry is shifting. When women are given a seat at the table — or the brew kettle — everyone’s glass is fuller. BREAKING BARRIERS: WOMEN REDEFINING SOUTH AFRICA’S BEER INDUSTRY Charlene Louw, BASA CEO Makgosi Booysen, Heineken SA Quality Manager Megan Gemmell, Clockwork Brewhouse