South African basic education recognizes limited career choices and prepares learners according to those industries. Chef is not one of those even though it is a prominent choice for many young people leaving high school.
One of those young people is Londiwe Khumalo from Edenvale. A young person who completed her matric in 2023, and within a concise space of time accomplished her chef studies and got herself employed in the hospitality industry while furthering her studies.
Londiwe did not allow herself to fall into the trap many young people leaving high school find themselves in, and that is trying to get into a university. She is currently earning a salary doing something she is passionate about and inspired to do.
What does being a chef mean to you?
Being a chef means more than just cooking; it’s about creativity, passion, and bringing joy to
others through food. It’s a fulfilling career where I can continuously learn and innovate,
transforming fresh ingredients into memorable experiences for my diners. Starting this
journey right after finishing chef school feels like the perfect blend of my dreams and hard
work coming to life.
What attracted you to being a chef?
I’ve always been passionate about cooking and watching Chef Gordon Ramsay’s shows
inspired me. His dedication, skill, and creativity in the kitchen sparked my interest in
pursuing a career as a chef. I just finished chef school and immediately landed a job, which
is a dream come true.
What is the most interesting dish you’ve ever prepared/cooked?
The most interesting dish I’ve ever prepared is a deconstructed ratatouille. It combines
traditional flavors in a modern presentation, with each vegetable meticulously prepared to
highlight its unique taste and texture. This dish showcases both my technical skills and
creativity, making it a memorable culinary experience.
Which is the most difficult dish to prepare?
As a newly graduated chef, I’d say the most challenging dish to prepare is a souƯlé. It’s
incredibly sensitive to timing, temperature, and technique. A slight misstep can cause it to
collapse, making it a true test of skill and precision.
What’s the golden rule in the kitchen?
The golden rule in the kitchen, often repeated among chefs, is “mise en place,” which is a
French culinary phrase meaning “putting in place” or “everything in its place.”
What’s the most challenging thing about being your career and what’s the most fulfilling?
The most challenging thing about being a chef is the pressure to consistently deliver high-quality dishes under tight deadlines while managing a demanding kitchen environment.
However, the most fulfilling part is seeing people enjoy the food you’ve poured your heart
into creating—it makes all the hard work worthwhile.
How to study to become a chef?
To become a chef, you can take the short route with online courses or a 6-month program.
This gives quick skills and practical training. The longer path is through university, taking 1 to
4 years, which offers deeper knowledge and broader experience in culinary arts and
management. Both ways have their advantages depending on your career goals and learning
style.
What are the challenges you faced coming out of high school to be where you are now?
Transitioning from high school to becoming a professional chef straight out of culinary
school wasn’t without its challenges. While others were enjoying their December holidays, I
was busy studying recipes and perfecting techniques. It took dedication and sacrifice, but I
knew early on that laying a strong foundation would pay. Now, having secured a job right
after graduation, I feel ready for the kitchen, armed with skills and passion. The journey
wasn’t easy, but the taste of success made it all worth it.
Those still in school how can they cope with such challenges?
For students aspiring to succeed in competitive fields like culinary arts while still in school,
here’s what helped me:
- Early Preparation: Use holidays and breaks wisely for self-study and skill development. Dedicate time to practice cooking techniques or learn about the industry of your interest.
- Networking: Connect with professionals in the field. Attend workshops, seminars, or even shadow chefs to gain insights and build a network that can support your career goals.
- Time Management: Balancing studies with extracurricular activities or part-time jobs is crucial. Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively to make the most out of your learning experience.
- Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can guide you through challenges and offer advice based on their experiences. Their insights can be invaluable in navigating the path to your career.
- Stay Passionate: Keep your enthusiasm alive. Passion fuels dedication, especially during tough times. Stay focused on your goals and remember why you chose this path in the first place.
By proactively managing your time, building relationships, and nurturing your passion, you can lay a strong foundation for future success in any field, including the culinary arts.