Alumnus: Tendani Tshikovhi

A rising star at Capsicum Culinary Studio.

At Capsicum Culinary Studio’s Rosebank Campus, Tendani Tshikovhi is not only crafting delicious dishes as a Deli Chef - she’s also shaping futures. With over five years in the industry, this Protea Glen-born chef brings warmth, passion, and a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of culinary talent.

From the moment she graduated high school, Tshikovhi knew the kitchen was her calling. After earning her Diploma in Food Preparation, she embarked on a life-changing J-1 cultural exchange internship in the U.S., gaining valuable insight into global culinary standards.

Her role at Capsicum, which she began in August last year, marks her first formal position — and a stepping stone toward her dream of culinary education. “I’ve always had a strong interest in lecturing,” she says. “Now, I get to play a small but important part in shaping future culinary leaders.”

Tshikovhi praises Capsicum’s career-focused learning environment, highlighting its strong industry ties, practical training, and guaranteed job interviews for students. Candid about the realities of the profession, she offers aspiring chefs this advice:
“Do your research. It’s not always glamorous — there are long hours and sacrifices. But if you’re passionate, that passion will sustain you.”

Inspired by Jamie Oliver, Tshikovhi views food as art, love, and history. She dreams of lecturing full-time, blending her love for cooking with her childhood aspiration of teaching.

Her culinary favourites? Soft dinner rolls, plant-based trends, and traditional meals like chicken feet with pap and sautéed cabbage. As for her dream dinner guests? She’d host a luxurious harvest table for icons like Jamie Oliver and The Funny Chef.

Tshikovhi is more than a chef, she’s a changemaker and at Capsicum, she’s not just preparing food, she’s preparing futures.