In a heart warming display of culinary talent, the Khulisa Food and Nutrition Security organisation, in collaboration with the Western Cape Department of Education’s National School Nutrition Programme, affectionately known as the Feeding Scheme, organised a thrilling cooking show on 4 May.
The event brought together cooking workers from five schools in Zwelethemba, who are integral parts of the Feeding Scheme programme, to showcase their skills and creativity in the kitchen.
The schools participating in the competition included Alfred Stamper Primary, PJB Cona, Siyafuneka, Zwelethemba High School and Vusisizwe Senior Secondary. With ingredients at their disposal, namely soya and rice, the cooks embarked on a culinary journey, aiming to impress both the taste buds and the eyes of the three discerning judges.
“Using the little ingredients at your disposal you all can certainly cook,” said Marius Booysen, who was part of the judging panel.
After an intense competition where taste and presentation were paramount, Alfred Stamper and Siyafuneka won the competition, sharing the top honours with a tie of 16 points out of 20. Their prize is an exciting agricultural excursion around the Boland, promising a blend of learning and leisure.
Reflecting on the event, Lerato Mniki, a community member who attended, expressed admiration for the participants and highlighted the significance of such gatherings in showcasing local talent. “In the Zwelethemba community I see a group of individuals that are moving the needle forward,” he remarked.
“There are a lot of opportunities, and with the little they’re doing in their backyards they should feel encouraged to showcase their produce at events such as these, and we’d be here offering support.”.
Pumza Zotwana, founder of Khulisa, outlined the foundation’s focus for the year, emphasising empowerment for the cooks in the schools.
“Our aim is to empower them so that when their contracts end at schools they are able to stand on their own,” she explained.
The initiative started in April with a workshop hosted by the Drostdy Culinary Schools, introducing participants to cooking skills and presenting culinary arts as a viable career path.
We are immensely grateful to the cooks for their hard work and dedication,” said Brendell Maart of the Nutrition Programme at the Western Cape education department, acknowledging the vital role they play in nourishing the community’s children.
The cooking show not only celebrated culinary talent, but also underscored the importance of empowerment. As the aroma of delicious dishes filled the air it was evident that initiatives such as these not only feed the body, but also nourish the spirit of wanting to achieve more.
Pumza thanked the Breede Valley Municipality, government communications, the Drostdy Culinary School and Ekuhlaleni Gas for their support.
