Siphesihle, an artistic chef

SIPHESIHLE Xiniwe is a young 19-year-old professional chef who is qualified in culinary arts.

This young Albertonian qualified as a chef at the age of 18. But not only does he have a passion as a food stylist but his positive outlook on life is a true inspiration. In a conversation with the RECORD he shared things close to his heart.

Why did you choose to become a chef?

Well, we are two boys in the house and my mother worked late sometimes so there were many times where we needed to cook. My mother taught me the basics and after I made my first dish, I never stopped.

What kind of a chef are you?

I am more of a savoury chef cooking hot food.

Where did you study?

I studied at the International Hotel School in Sandton.

When did you know you wanted to be a chef?

At the age of 15. I finished school early and passed matric at the age of 15 at Jeppe High School for Boys. I told my mother that I wanted to do something different – I did not want to be an engineer or follow a career path that would just be another job for me. My choice was to further myself in culinary arts.

What do you love most about your job?

I am one of those lucky ones who are currently living out some of my dreams. Writing, art and cooking are my passions. I love to express myself about culinary through writing.

What do you do to stay educated about new trends?

I follow a lot of pages, brands and chefs on social media. I love to read food magazines. I do not often watch TV to learn something new, because according to me I get the idea that the some chefs on the TV promote bad food. And there is much more to food.

What is your favourite food to eat?

I am an Italian kind of guy, so anything with pasta could buy me over.

Do you have any chefs that inspires you?

Yes I am inspired by chefs like Jamie Oliver, Neill Anthony and Luke Dale-Roberts.

Where do you get your cooking ideas from?

It all comes from my imagination, thinking creatively and out of the box.

Tell us about an accomplishment that you are most proud of in your career.

This will definitely be that I qualified as a professional chef at the age of 18.

Tell us two things that you consider to be your strengths.

I am very artistic and I love to follow tradition, adding a modern twist.

What would you say will be the best qualities one should have to become a good chef

Willing to learn and to take chances. Being passionate about your work and being a hard worker.

Being a 19-year-old chef can be difficult, so what motivates you to keep following your dreams on bad days?

I just have it in me to continue no matter what. Time never stops, so I respect it. If I am dedicated, I will stay dedicated.

Do you do the cooking at home?

Yes, this is where I experiment with my new dishes. Doing some preparations.

What are your hobbies?

I love being artistic, playing basketball, writing and cooking.

What do you do in your spare time?

Chill with friends, go to nice places and listen to music. I am also a blogger and enjoy that immensely.

How long have you been staying in Alberton?

Three years. I was born in Johannesburg.

What are your goals?

To become a food stylist. To learn and show people good and healthy food. I want to work for a food magazine. I also want to motivate young people to consider being a chef and I want to inspire them.

Who inspires you and why?

My cousin, Thabain Mbatha (31) because as I child I watched him cook and try out new recipes. He has been there my whole life and I am so grateful to have him. I’ve learnt a lot from him. He had a big influence on me.

Siphesihle also has his own business, Picasso, where he works as a private chef covering events. For any enquiries send an email to xiniwesiphesihle@gmail.com or contact him on 079 671 5599.

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