Opportunities in the culinary industry are abound. Benny Masekwameng, a DUT alumnus who completed his Catering Management course in 1999, can testify to this.

He recently shared all he has learnt in his journey as a chef with DUT Food and Nutrition students.

Like some South Africans, Masekwameng fell victim to the country’s common social ills. He was raised by his single mom in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg and needless to say, life had many challenges.

But what separates Masekwameng from his counterparts is the journey travelled to reaching his blissful ending.

In just over a decade, Masekwameng has worked in the world’s finest kitchens where he has rubbed shoulders with many prominent figures. He currently works as Executive Chef of Monde Vino Restaurant at Tsogo Sun Hotel. His exceptional accolades have also landed him television and newspaper stints.

South African food enthusiasts will know him for his friendly smile and sweet demeanour on MasterChef SA, currently airing on Mnet. Together with two other judges on the show, Masekwameng critiques and grooms contestants to reach their full potential and become master chefs.

“Shooting MasterChef was undoubtedly the highlight of my career and life. I knew when I got that job that I had done my mom proud and personally, I was very impressed with myself,” said Masekwameng.

Working with the contestants was an emotional ride, Masekwameng admitted. Looking back to his days as an aspiring chef and remembering his own hunger for success at the time, he could relate to the contestants.

Choosing the right institution pays off immensely, Masekwameng affirmed. “The practical experience you get here at DUT will give you that edge over everyone else,” he told the students. This coupled with passion, hard work, will power and creativity will set the prospective culinary professionals for life, he added.

“Once you complete your course, that’s when the real work will start. Don’t expect to become mangers straight away; you will have to do the time,” he advised.

On the home front, Masekwameng enjoys meals prepared by his wife, who is also a Chef. The couple was recently blessed with a baby, now seven weeks old.

–Naledi Hlefane