“VUT Chemical Engineering students gain industry insight at the Brew4Change Expo, exploring brewing innovation, sustainability, and responsible drinking”
11 August 2025 | Story By: Staff Reporter | Picture: Supplied
2 minutes read time.
Chemical engineering students from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recently swapped lab coats for a day of hops, barley and scientific banter at the Science Brew4Change Expo, hosted by the pioneering Brewsters Academy. Far from being just another industry gathering, the event was a spirited showcase of innovation, transformation and the science that keeps the brewing world bubbling.
The students were warmly welcomed by Ms Aphiwe Nxusani Mawela, founder of Brewsters Academy and a trailblazer in South Africa’s brewing industry, and Mrs Palesa Mokoena, Managing Director of Rubicon Services and proud VUT alumna. Their tireless drive to empower women, youth and students in brewing left a lasting impression on the group.
Held in a vibrant, collaborative setting, the Expo blended theory with practice, revealing the brewing process through both technical insights and hands on demonstrations. From fermentation science to quality control and sustainability, it was clear that chemical engineering principles are the quiet workhorses behind every quality pint.
“It was an insightful experience,” said one of the students. “Seeing what we learn in class come to life in such an inclusive and innovative environment was truly exciting, and yes, the aroma of freshly brewed ideas was intoxicating.”
Stalls and group discussions connected the students with industry professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs and organisations such as the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA). BASA championed responsible drinking and promoted its Go Zero campaign, encouraging beer lovers to consider non-alcoholic options, proof that innovation in brewing is not just about what goes in the bottle but also what stays out.
The day was more than an academic excursion; it was an opportunity to witness how science, culture and creativity can ferment into something remarkable.
The event took place on 25 July 2025, and the VUT delegation returned with new knowledge, fresh connections and a deeper appreciation of how their field can intersect with industry and society.
A special thank you goes to the Social Outreach Committee (SOC), Dr Letsabisa Lerotholi, Mr Gadinkosi Dube and the SOCHES executive who accompanied the students, as well as the entire Brewsters Academy team for the opportunity. Their dedication is brewing a new generation of scientists, engineers and innovators ready to raise the bar in more ways than one.