The programme entails training in practical cooking skills to provide a solid foundation in cooking techniques and traditional methods of cookery. Entrepreneurs also have to complete theoretical training which focuses on hygiene, food costing and business management skills for caterers.
The end goal of the program is to improve the abilities of entrepreneurs within the industry, to enhance their career opportunities, improve their quality of life and ultimately create sustainable businesses in the culinary industry.
Two groups of entrepreneurs trained in Johannesburg, one group in Durban and one in Cape Town. Johannesburg's third group is now in training in the CCE kitchen at the South African Chefs Association.
Two of the exceptional candidates who graduated are Mapule Moloto, a young semi disabled entrepreneur who started her own catering business in Sebokeng in the Vaal in 2004. Another is Elsie Khaba, a 65 year old pensioner from Springs, who started her own catering business 10 years ago.
