When soul and craftsmanship align

When Mazda set out on its Made with Soul journey, it had a very clear goal: to find South Africans who embody soul in what they do. This insightful journey of discovery can now be watched exclusively on Showmax. You can also win an experience with one of these special crafters (read below for competition details). 

Made with Soul delves into the hearts and minds of three very special crafters to see how they do what they do – and why it means so much to them.

These are people who place passion and precision above all else; who embody a respect for culture and an understanding of their natural environment.

In much the same way, Mazda sacrifices neither imagination nor craftsmanship when it comes to creating its cars. They’re designed with human-centricity in mind. In the same way these expert craftsmen infuse their work with soul, Mazda is about creating something alive; something with soul.

Most importantly, Mazda was able to identify in these three individuals Japanese principles that reflect the same principles that drive Mazda itself:

• Kacho fugetsu – celebrating the beauty of nature and returning to one’s roots.
• Kodawari – the pursuit of perfection.
• Mottainai – not wasting but appreciating the gifts of nature.

Meet the crafters with soul

Retang Phaahla

For Retang, the co-founder of Setṧong Tea Crafters, creating her unique range of teas is about more than just making products. It’s her telling the story of the Bapedi people in Limpopo. It’s about going back to her roots and sharing her community with the world. The teas she makes are based on recipes passed down through generations and are made in the traditional way, ensuring the spirit of wellness and harmony of her ancestors is poured into every cup. It’s about taking the wonder of nature and turning it into something incredible.

Her way of living and working perfectly reflects the principle of Kacho Fugetsu.

Neels van den Berg

Neels was recently accredited as a master bladesmith, something that can take decades to achieve. For the owner of Black Dragon Forge, it’s always been about chasing perfection through planning and precision. He believes in imparting soul into every piece he forges, and wants every new blade he creates to be the best he’s ever crafted.

His relentless search for perfection mirrors the principle of Kodawari.

Roushanna Gray

This avid forager and founder of Veld and Sea has a special relationship with nature. Roushanna’s connection is based around ensuring sustainability, while at the same time unlocking the beauty and nourishment that lies in our local landscape. She uses her own unique skills to educate others about being ecologically sensitive and the value of picking only what you need and using everything you have.

Her communication with nature and understanding of its value reflects the principle of Mottainai.  

 For an in-depth look at each of these special journeys, watch Mazda’s Made with Soul series on Showmax from 21 December 2022 until 31 January 2023. It’s the very first time that an automotive brand has launched an original series on a streaming platform in South Africa.

Stand a chance to WIN of 3 experiences with Mazda
Stand a chance to win 1 of 3 premium experiences with your favourite craftsman in a Mazda car. To enter, click here.These are the three experiences up for grabs!

Experience 1: Tea Tour & Spa Experience for 4 people in Limpopo

Cultural tea tour
Traditional African lunch
Bush spa experience, including full body massage
1 night accommodation in a 4-star venue (including dinner & breakfast)
Tea gift hamper
Travel to Limpopo, return (if the winner resides outside of Limpopo)
Shuttle: local pick up and drop off in Marble Hall, return

Experience 2: Blade smithing masterclass for 4 people in Gauteng
Forge your own knife, 1 day masterclass
1 night accommodation in a 4-star venue (including meals)
Travel to Gauteng, return (if the winner resides outside of Gauteng)
Shuttle: local pick up and drop off in Lanseria, return

Experience 3: Wild food forage adventure for 2 in Cape Town
Wild food forage adventure
1 night accommodation (including meals)
Foraging guide
Travel to Cape Town, return (if the winner resides outside of Gauteng)
Shuttle: local pick up and drop off in Cape Peninsula, return