Segopotso Shilakwe (22) holds a culinary arts diploma from the International Hotel School in Sandton and he is currently furthering his studies with an advanced pastry certificate.
“Food is my life, I enjoy cooking and making people gain a few kilo’s once in a while,” jokes Shilakwe.
The young lad says he discovered his cooking skills when he experimented with his mother’s recipes and realised that he is quite good in the kitchen.
After matric he furthered his studies at the Ekurhuleni East College, in Springs, and was afforded the opportunity to work for a catering company in KwaThema.
“While working for the company, my boss mentioned that I should apply for a scholarship through the National Youth Training Programme; which I did,” Shilakwe says.
“After two interviews and a cook-off, I was granted the opportunity to study at one of the good culinary schools in South Africa.”
He adds that the the sky is the limit and he has great plans for his career in the food and beverage industry.
“I’ve recently joined local catering company Gracemorenzo as their head chef; I will be taking care of their menus for all the events for which they will be catering.
“I’m looking forward to my new role, where I can exercise all the expertise I’ve gained from school and training,”says the chef.
He stresses that there are many young, talented chefs in the community who are unable to hone their skills because of financial problems, hence he is determined to make his dream of a local culinary school a reality.
