The youthful and talented Nkosikwazi Mthethwa, known as Chef Kwazi, has already made a name for himself in the culinary scene, impressing diners and critics alike with his creative vision and dedication to using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
With a string of accolades already under his belt, Kwazi is rapidly becoming the one to watch in the culinary world.
“I was inspired by seeing how much my family would gather over the food I had prepared. In addition, I used to watch cooking shows like Master Chef, Hell's Kitchen, and movies like Chocolat. Stars like Gordon Ramsay also served as a kind of virtual mentorship,” he said.
Kwazi completed 'A’ Level in 2018, focusing on Economics, Accounting and Business Studies.
"After that, I enrolled in an apprenticeship programme as I had realised where my passion was. This is where I learned to be more creative in cuisine. I then studied as a professional chef at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic. That's where I also harnessed leadership skills," Kwazi explains.
The increasingly prominent chef also came in fourth place in first lady Auxillia Mnangagwa's traditional meal cooking competition.
“I was honoured because I never thought I would meet or cook for ministers, let alone the first lady,” Chef Kwazi.
“I am grateful that we have been recognised as chefs. I even got the chance to present my ideas on how we can cultivate a billion-dollar industry.”
He recently joined Sterling Boutique Lodge in Borrowdale Brooke, where he serves as head chef.
“I became part of the Sterling family on June 24 in Harare,” he said.
“I have already met and cooked for various groups of people, including Christian tourists who came from the US.
“I had an amazing time and got a chance to define myself through preparing delicious meals for them. I made sure to include some original, mouth-watering Zimbabwean dishes.”
He also highlighted the problem of chefs being underpaid across the board.
“Generally, I think the industry is challenging because I personally haven't yet worked for a company that pays me the salary I expect to get as a head chef,” Chef Kwazi said.
“I hope someday to open my own business in the food industry and change things, as well as contribute to the economy and infrastructural development by building a world-class restaurant.”
Kwazi said he still hopes to cook for high-profile people and events.
“The way I impressed the first lady and her delegation in Nyanga is an unforgettable memory,” he said.
