Introducing Christopher Jantjies - Class of 2023
Christopher Jantjies / Photo: Kathy Pitout Photography
Christopher Jantjies
1. What inspired you to enroll at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine?
I’ve always enjoyed being in the kitchen, so when Jackie Cameron visited the school I attended, I grabbed the opportunity with both hands because I knew this was my chance to be taught by the best.
2. What are you hoping to achieve here?
To become the best chef I can be - and to own my own business, such as a bakery.
3. Explain what you are prepared to give of yourself
I'm prepared to give my best, and my all, with patience - and to work to the best of my ability.
4. What is your long-term goal?
As I advance, through my time in the industry, my long-term goal is to open my own business.
5. In how many years do you hope to achieve this?
15 Years.
6. Are you aware the pressure you’ll be placed under during the course will help you achieve your goal? Elaborate on your ability to cope with pressure.
Yes, I’m aware of the pressure I’ll have to face. Pressure motivates me to push myself, which will help influence the way my techniques improve.
7. Do you shy away from hard work
No. Hard work motivates me and helps me focus on what I need to improve on.
8. Are you willing to perform all tasks assigned to you? Give a reason for your answer.
Yes, I'm willing to perform and complete all my tasks, to perform them well and to learn from them.
9. Are you aware that the hospitality industry requires you to work weekends and holidays while guests `play`? Comment on this.
Yes, I'm willing to work on weekends and public holidays because I love this industry.
10. Who is your favourite international ‘foodie’?
11. If food had a personality, what dish would be most like you and why.
Mutton curry - because I have a kind personality but within me I have that fire and passion for food.
12. Where were you born and raised.
I was born in South Africa and raised in Pietermaritzburg.
13. Apart from food what hobbies do you enjoy?
Reading, travelling and swimming.
14. What dish do you find least inspiring? Explain your reason.
Scramble egg because it lacks flavour and tastes stale.
15. Name four celebrities you’d like to have at your dinner table and explain why?
Jeremy Clarkson, James May, Richard Hammond and Lewis Hamilton. All these celebrities have been very important in my life because when I watched them, they inspired me to push on in life and helped me recognise that life can be fun.