For the third year in a row Westcol College in Randfontein was a cut above the rest at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Top Chef Competition.
Brian Mncube, 23, student chef at Westcol was the winner of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training College (TVET) section, as well as the overall winner among all the other TVET and Universities of Technology entrants. As this was the first time Brian participation in this competition the results blew his mind.
During this competition the participants had to prepare a three-course meal from a mystery basket. “It was so nerve-wrecking, seeing the other participants gathering their ingredients, while I was wondering what amazing dishes they were going to put before the judges,” Brian said.
He enjoyed the experience very much as he had the opportunity to meet other people and receive constructive advice from the chefs.
“I’ve learnt a great deal at the Top Chef Competition. I am actually looking forward to the next competition heading my way to see how well I can handle the pressure,” he said.
As a great lover of desserts he jokingly referred to himself as the Skinny Dessert Mayor, mentioning that his ‘Chocolate Orgasm Cake’ might be to thank for his victory.
“I definitely owe it to our lecturers who really went the extra mile for us, as well as to my mother. I really want to make her proud, she is my role model,” Brian said.
As only two students are selected from each institution, the other Westcol College chef student, Kgontse Maswikaneng, 21, who participated in the competition as well, said it was a great experience from which she learnt a great deal.
“I’ve learnt that time is of the essence and even though I didn’t win, I gained courage, determination and the experience. With this I know how to better myself,” she said
“It challenges one’s body, mind and soul to determine whether it is the right career for you. Now I know this the right career for me. If you cook with your heart, you will serve love.”
Other participants in the VUT Top Chef competition 2016 included Sedibeng TVET College, Orbit TVET College, Ekurhuleni West College, Central Johannesburg College and Tshwane North College, Vaal University of Technology, Tshwane University of Technology – Pretoria West and University of Zululand.
The judges included Chef Dewald Labuschagne from Emerald Hotel and Casino, Chef Michael Tsekwa from Bon Hotel and Chef Daniel Matena from Riverside Hotel.
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