Talented chef with a heart of an entrepreneur strives to be an inspiration
The talented chef has also recently cooked for the former Generations actress, Dineo Nchalabeng, and was recognised by Soweto TV, which he has appeared on.
Gontse SQ Ngema (25) is a qualified chef, entrepreneur and motivational speaker who is passionate about helping and inspiring the youth.
He grew up in Katlehong and now lives in Rondebult, in the vicinity of Dawn Park.
In Grade Nine he was a young entrepreneur, selling sweets and lollipops. He failed Grade 10 twice, which then led to him dropping out of high school due to making choices which involved hanging out with the wrong friends.
When he was 19, he became a volunteer baker for a year. He gained so much skill that he was the only student in his class that could make professional occasion cakes in his second year.
At the age of 20, he became nationally qualified as a chef. A year later, he was employed at Emperors Palace, where he prepared and served food for guests arriving from OR Tambo International Airport.
He resigned at Emperors after a while to fulfill his dream of starting a food business. He then cooked at various events, and even launched his own wine brand.
“At my sister’s wedding I was inspired to try and make my own wine. That was when Jaguar Wine was born. The company is growing slowly, but surely,” said Gonste.
Gontse has been seen cooking on DStv channel 190 (ED) and has also appeared on shows like Shift, Daily Thetha (which replaced Shift) and iDentity.
He is frequently asked by different radio stations for interviews and is then a motivator for the day.
One of his latest achievements was being the head chef for the team who prepared a birthday meal for the former president, Jacob Zuma, and ministers at Luthuli House.
“It was amazing and I’m grateful for the experience,” said Gontse.
Gontse has also launched his own brand of coffee mugs and wine glassware, called Gontse La Chef Kitchen Collection.
Through his entrepreneurial journey he has become someone who leads by example.
He founded the Feed A Black Child Foundation and tours Ekurhuleni’s township schools to give motivational talks.
Gontse has provided a meal for over 400 children through the foundation.
“The foundation was inspired by my role model, Sibusiso Leope, known as DJ Sbu, as he is always motivating the youth,” said Gontse.
He continues to be mentored by internationally recognised 2008 Sama winning McCoy Mrubata.
Gontse is available for bookings and may be contacted on 081 546 8579 or on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gontse.ngema or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gontse_la_chef/
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