Elevating the wine and hospitality experience in     

KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

My name is Nkazimulo Makhaye, and many call me Cuz or Nkazi for short. I grew up in Durban and worked in South African hospitality before spending 13 years abroad working in the USA, UK, and UAE at luxury private clubs, fine dining, and top wine and cocktail bars. I recently returned home to the North Coast, KwaZulu-Natal, living in Ballito. 

I'm building a direct connection between boutique Western Cape wineries and the premium lodge and fine dining space that international guests pass through every year in KZN. I offer wine representation for wineries looking for a foothold in KZN markets, while partnering with restaurants, lodges, and private clubs in KZN, offering training to elevate their service to global standards. 

Maria Collective is named after my great-grandmother, the matriarch of my childhood, who guided my upbringing with unconditional love, trust, and a steadfast work ethic. These same values are the backbone of Maria Collective.

Cultivating Exceptional Experiences

I'm partnering with select wineries with exemplary quality that are committed to building a story around their wine and the brand, cultivating a connection and community in the drinking experience.

At the same time, I'm working closely with restaurants, lodges, and country clubs in KZN, many of which are selling the same wines, ensuring their staff are trained to deliver the standards international guests expect.

I'm a level 1 WSET certified Sommelier (enrolled in Level 2 WSET July 2026) and am passionate about food, wine, cocktails, and quality standards.

I combine a relational and positive approach with strategic attention to detail.

The end result is a cultivated, exceptional experience from grape to glass.