Since the dawn of the multi-million Rand brand partnership with the Supa Mega,
AKA, CRUZ Vodka had set its eyes on bringing another partner to join the family, aiding its agenda to build an
opulent, connected but inclusive and well-represented culture around the CRUZ brand.

Now, springing out of a
thundering Winter comes a true celebration of new perspective and collaboration – a new long-term brand
partnership between CRUZ Vodka and Nomuzi Mabena, more fondly known as MOOZLIE. This relationship has
been years in the making with MOOZLIE as a loyal friend of CRUZ, becoming a staple on the brand’s exclusive,
star-studded SA Fashion Week party guest list.
Finessing words and rhymes in her raps, gracing our TV screens and serenading audiences as a host and MC,
28-year-old Nomuzi Mabena started out as a model in Benoni, and shot up the ranks and hearts of South
Africans when she won the MTV Base VJ search in 2012. Today, MOOZLIE has cemented her presence as a
formidable force reigning as a rapper, fashion designer, model, creative, mogul – not only within SA Hip Hop,
but other industries too.’

Apart from her many titles, she has also earned the respect amongst her peers as an
authentic voice for the culture. Her story is filled with chapters on how she’s used her time & talent to smash
glass ceilings, specifically within the hip hop industry. In an effort to clear the runway and lead the femme-
powerment movement, this young and determined woman is undoubtedly well-equipped to build a culture
around the CRUZ brand that is as rich, as dynamic and as empowering as the vodka the brand makes.
Ecstatic about the road ahead, MOOZLIE shares her reflections on the news:
“This is like a full circle moment for me. A seed planted over many years has finally blossomed. Cruz
Vodka is one of the most forward-thinking brands I’ve ever worked with. From what the team have
been able to achieve with AKA to all the exciting things we’ve got planned with Manhattan Blossom, I
appreciate that this brand respects the influence & creative genius artists bring to the table. I have no
doubt this will lead to more music, more good times, more milestones & more success for the whole
team.”

Deemed a brand partner, MOOZLIE will work with the CRUZ brand team to represent and build CRUZ
Manhattan Blossom. The terms of the agreement are set for a long-term business relationship with MOOZLIE
set to earn her share in the vodka’s profit split per bottle sold throughout Africa – a rare deal in the South
African spirit beverage industry. The essence of this partnership celebrates a modern-day take on carpe diem,
seizing the day & living life in full bloom, – a motto Moozlie has adopted as her own. Moozlie explains: “For me,
it’s about not allowing your situation or circumstances to box you. It’s important now, more than ever before,
to live life boldly & proudly.”
"We’re honoured to have Moozlie leading the way both for our brand and for those who will follow
the agenda. Celebrating a time of transition from one of the worst Winters we’ve seen – that has little
to do with the weather – we look forward to a Spring that poses ample opportunity for positive
momentum. May this partnership lead the way for a new season, a new rule, and a new partnership
set to Blossom,” stated by Cruz Vodka’s Brand Manager, Kayla Hendricks.

About Cruz Manhattan Blossom
The new variant of the award winning New York brand, Cruz Manhattan Blossom is wrapped in a decadent
design, and made from the original Cruz Vintage Black Vodka, infused with Juniper and Rose.

The premium
New York dry craft vodka was developed as a first for South Africa and has done exceptionally well since
launching in October 2019. The mouth-watering taste of Juniper with hints of rose, coupled with spiced ruby
grapefruit and refreshing cucumber undertone offers a smooth, flavourful liquid perfect for mixing, to be
enjoyed with a craft tonic, lemonade or even cranberry juice.
CRUZ MANHATTAN BLOSSOM is available in selected outlets across the country.

Tags: Moozlie