Back row: Chef Marcus Gericke, Ethan Joseph, Phenyo Pooe, Thando Ntsele, Callum Condie and Pholoso Sebola. Front row: Chef Donaldson Madubela, Loyiso Mlondo, Makgobokele Nchabeleng, Chef Catherine Adonis, Elizabeth Ncube, Unami Binda and Lesedi Morudi.
South Africa's next generation of chefs are getting ready for one of the biggest moments of their careers after the South African Chefs Association announced the Junior Team Masakhane Training Squad that will begin preparations for the 2026 Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg.
Chosen after a nationwide selection process, demanding trials and detailed judging, the squad brings together talented young chefs from hotels, restaurants and culinary schools across the country.
They now begin an intensive training programme that will sharpen their cooking skills, strengthen teamwork and prepare them for one of the world's toughest culinary competitions.
Leading the squad are head coach chef Marcus Gericke and pastry coach chef Catherine Adonis, supported by team manager and director of competitions chef Pieter Malan and head of team Talent Mahlomola Thamae.
