Sibusiso Yeni

Sibusiso Yeni is the Head Lead Bar Trainer at Thirst Bar Services KZN, bringing over a decade of experience in the service industry, with more than six years focused on mobile bars and event environments. Known for his high-energy, hands-on training style, Sibusiso is passionate about elevating the craft—literally.

He has worked with prestigious global brands such as Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray, Don Julio, Glenlivet, and Jameson, and has trained hundreds of bartenders through the Diageo Bar Academy Programme. A certified WSET Level 2 Spirits professional, he blends technical knowledge with an engaging, people-focused approach.

A career highlight includes leading the Inverroche Gin Academy in KZN for more than two years, hosting guests at The Capital Zimbali, including global tourists, influencers, and clients like BMW, East Coast Radio, and Adcock Ingram.

Sibusiso’s motto: “Train like a pro, serve like a legend.”

Liam Gustafson

Liam Gustafson is a bar and restaurant specialist, head trainer, hospitality consultant, and mixology educator with over nine years of diverse industry experience. From bartending and restaurant management to operations, cocktail design, and system optimization, Liam has done it all—with precision and flair.

He previously served as Head Bartender and General Manager at Cause Effect, and has created bespoke cocktail programs for over 50 hospitality venues. Notably, he’s served high-profile clients such as Bill Gates, Craig Robinson, and Ken Jeong.

A two-time World Class Regional finalist and three-time Cointreau Nationals competitor, Liam is certified by WSET (Level 2), Diageo Bar Academy, Heineken, and more.

His motto: “You don’t know what you don’t know—and that’s the excitement of re-learning.”

Seisa Khola

Seisa Khola is a seasoned mixologist, dynamic trainer, and events manager with over a decade of bartending experience. Starting in small bistros and clubs, he honed his craft at Melville’s iconic Six Cocktail Lounge and now leads events and training across Thirst.

A Diageo Bar Academy Trainer and cocktail innovator, Seisa has worked with major brands like Jameson, Chivas Regal, Don Julio, and Johnnie Walker Blue Label. He’s competed in elite competitions including World Class and the Opihr Gin Competition.

Certified in WSET Levels 1 & 2 and an MBA DBA graduate, Seisa brings a passion for education and high-speed service. One of his most memorable events? Crafting cocktails in the heart of Mapungubwe National Park.

His motto: “Life’s a relay—pass on excellence, raise the bar.”

Solly "Doctor" Mshengu

Solly “Doctor” Mshengu is a veteran of the South African bar scene, with over 20 years of experience in bartending, training, and elevating service standards. He currently serves as Head Bar Trainer and Lead Mixology Educator, and is WSET, DBA, and Bacardi Legacy certified. Doctor has sharpened his skills behind some of the country’s most iconic venues, including Mable, Hard Rock Café, and Life Grand Café.

From mixology and cocktail development to spirits education and bar operations, Doctor’s expertise is both deep and hands-on. He has trained teams on behalf of major brands such as Diageo World Class, Bols, Opihr Gin, and Bacardi, and has worked with VIP clients under the Tsogo Sun Hotel Group—including Kwesta, Black Coffee, Da L.E.S, and Bonang Matheba.

A former World Class Percipient (2016) and competition finalist across multiple global platforms, Doctor’s training style is sharp, grounded, and always results-driven. Known for combining technical mastery with real-world application, he empowers bartenders at every level—whether they’re industry vets or mixing their first paloma.

Doctor leads with the motto: “Everything is better with garnish.”

Prayer Moyo

Prayer Moyo is a hotelier who completed their studies at the International Hotel School with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality Operations Management. Currently, they are the Assistant Operations and Events Manager at Thirst. Driven by the art of creating unforgettable experiences, Prayer also leads the bar as a mixologist and trainer, with six years of cocktail and mixology experience, and has gained a WSET Level 2 qualification in spirits and wines.

He is also a Diageo Bar Academy trainer who has worked with many brands and trained bartenders on brands such as BNG Wine, Royal Flush, Macallan, Glenlivet, and many more. He has run the Glenlivet Sensory Dinner on several occasions, hosting and guiding celebrities through a spirit and food pairing.

Prayer lives by the quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt.