The graduation ceremony took place at the same venue.
Talking to Kathorus MAIL before the ceremony, Vanessa Kruger, the hospitality director and trainer at Peter Kruger Foundation (who sponsored and ran the course), said the one month and three days course started with 32 students.
“Of these, 29 students graduated while the other three quit in the middle of the course because of family commitments. Those who have graduated will be awarded certificates and awards,” said Kruger.
She said the certificates will allow the students to get decent jobs owing to the cooking skills they will attain after the lessons.
“Others will be able to start their own businesses because of the business workshop that was conducted here,” Kruger said.
She said two of their students have got the jobs already.
Kruger told Kathorus MAIL what it was like to work with the students and the community of Katlehong as a whole: “It was difficult to be accepted by the community at first but after we properly introduced ourselves they accepted us. They helped us to carry our boxes to the art centre.
“As for the students, they are the best class we have ever worked with. They are full of respect and they are grateful. They were given free cooking lessons and they took the opportunity with both hands,” Kruger said.
Kruger thanked Ntina Hlubi for sponsoring the decorations for the event.
“Hlubi supported tonight’s event with decorations. The venue of the event is as beautiful as it is today because of her,” said Kruger.
Kruger’s message to the community of Katlehong is: “No matter the circumstances you grew up in, there are opportunities out there ready for you. You need to open your mind. If the opportunity avails itself grab it with both hands,” Kruger concluded.
She thanked her siblings for working together in making the course a success.
Aalso Read: Auditions held at Katlehong
They are:
*Pricilla Kruger – facilitator and trainer,
*Charmaine Kruger – community director of the project, and
*Damaine Kruger – musical development.