Newcastle High School alumnus Simele Shange is showing off his culinary talent on national television and Newcastle could not be prouder.

Newcastle High School proudly boasted in a Facebook post that Shange is currently competing on MasterChef South Africa, bringing bold flavours, Zulu pride and a love for the braai to audiences across the country.

“From the kitchens and corridors of Newcastle High School to the MasterChef studio, Simele’s journey proves that dreams never expire,” read the post.

A passionate home cook and entrepreneur, Shange believes that food is about memory, storytelling and connection; values that shine through in his cooking.

In his first week on the show, he and his fellow competitors were tasked with creating a dish that represented their childhood, and our local hero definitely did not leave the judges disappointed:

Pap. Chakalaka. Rib-eye re-imagined

Shange posted his first meal to his official Facebook page, stating that this was his top 3 dish in the first episode of MasterChef South Africa.

He further writes, “A plate rooted in South African identity – but executed at competition level. Slow-cooked bean purée inspired by chakalaka, perfectly seared rib-eye steak and crisp phuthu crumb for texture and contrast. The goal wasn’t to complicate it; it was to elevate it.

“To take something familiar and present it with precision, restraint and intention. Proud of this plate. Proud that our flavours can stand confidently on any stage. We’re only getting started,” said Shange.

Show your support

Newcastle is encouraged to show their support by watching MasterChef South Africa every Sunday at 18:00 on eTV.

You can also follow Shange’s journey on social media:

• Instagram: @simeleshange
• TikTok: @simelelovescooking
• Facebook: @simeleshange

The Newcastle Advertiser wishes Simele Shange all the best during his season on MasterChef SA!

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