Alumnus: Chef Zinhle Skosana

From the lively township of Mamelodi to the refined kitchens of Pretoria East, Zinhle Skosana embodies passion, perseverance, and purpose. At just 25 years old, she’s already making waves in South Africa’s culinary world, proving that when talent meets hard work, dreams really do rise, just like dough in a warm oven.

Her story begins at home, in her mother’s kitchen.

“I spent a lot of time with my mom, cooking simple, home-cooked meals. That’s where the spark began,” she recalls. Those early days of peeling vegetables and stirring pots ignited a lifelong love for food that led her to Capsicum in 2023.

Drawn by its international recognition and industry connections, Zinhle enrolled in the Professional Chef Programme, graduating in July 2024. Her placement at Summit Grill and Skybar became the proving ground where she learned that real mastery is earned under pressure. “This industry can be mentally and physically demanding,” she admits, “but passion for food is what drives you.”

Her dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Upon completing her placement, Zinhle was hired immediately, and today she proudly serves as Senior Head Chef, managing operations, mentoring students, and ensuring every dish leaving her kitchen meets the highest standard. “Now, I’m the one training students who were once like me. It’s a full-circle moment.”

Outside of her day job, Zinhle runs iChefYENU, her personal brand offering private dining experiences infused with creativity and flair. With ambition as her secret ingredient, Chef Zinhle Skosana isn’t just cooking food - she’s crafting a legacy that inspires others to follow their passion, one plate at a time.