Evander chef expresses her love for pastry through her work
Ms Hlope is ready to dazzle with her desserts.
EVANDER – Ms Nokuphila Hlope’s (23) pastries and desserts set her apart from others.
She is an aspiring pastry chef who is currently studying economics.
She enjoys cooking and baking which allows her to express her creativity with food.
“My first love however remains pastries and desserts,” she said.
“I have always loved the taste of sugar more than salt and I can now make a masterpiece of art just with pastries and desserts.
Ms Hlope has been exploring her musical talents since the age of 13 and was part of the Evander Youth Choir in high school.
This choir went on an European tour in 2013 and it was the perfect platform to see and taste different pastries from the European side.
“I was exposed to the different pastries and was inspired by the attention to detail in the presentation of the desserts,” said Ms Hlope.
She was raised by her grandmother after the death of her mother.
“Granny taught me a lot, especially that you should respect yourself first and respect your surroundings as well.
“She filled the gap that my mother left.
“My memories of cooking Sunday lunch with my grandmother ignited the spark to pursue my passion for pastries.”
Ms Hlope showcased her baking and desserts on social media and the response was better than what she had anticipated.
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“I began to receive calls from people who asked me to make desserts for special occasions.”
Ms Hlope had her first feature on an online magazine when she made a kasi (bunny chow) meal and submitted her recipe and photos online.
“Having my first feature online opened many doors for me,” said Ms Hlope.
She is inspired by the food network channel and her grandmother and currently lives in eMalahleni because of her studies.
Ms Hlope runs a pastry business and her clientele is based in Evander and Secunda and she strives to ensure she pleases her clients.
“I began this business on my own without any knowledge of how to run a business.
“I did not know how much to charge people and I quickly became broke.
“Thanks to the few people in my circle of family and friends who helped me to improve this business.”
