Introducing Riyaadh Jacobs - Class of 2023

Riyaadh Jacobs / Photo: Kathy Pitout Photography

Riyaadh Jacobs

1. What inspired you to enroll at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine?

I have always wanted to become a chef, but I never knew how to achieve this. Coming across the school has presented me with the opportunity.

2. What are you hoping to achieve here?

To become the best chef I can be, and to achieve my highest potential.

3. Explain what you are prepared to give of yourself

I am prepared to give my all with maximum effort.

4. What is your long-term goal?

To open my own restaurant and work with the best chefs in the world.

5. In how many years do you hope to achieve this

16 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, and the pressure is what will challenge me to push myself further into being the best I can be.

7. Do you shy away from hard work?

No. Hard work and perseverance are what build character.

8. Are you willing to perform all tasks assigned to you? Give a reason for your answer.

Yes, I am - and I will complete all tasks because I will be learning something new, every day.

9. Are you aware that the hospitality industry requires you to work weekends and holidays while guests `play`? Comment on this.

Yes. I love the industry so I am willing to give up my weekends and public holidays.

10. Who is your favourite international ‘foodie’?

Gordon Ramsay.

11.  If food had a personality, what dish would be most like you and why?

Chicken curry because I am tender at heart and there is fiery passion within me.

12. Where were you born and raised?
Durban.

13. Apart from food what hobbies do you enjoy?
Art and golf.

14. What dish do you find least inspiring? Explain your reason.

Any form of canned fish because the flavour can never compare with fresh fish.

15. Name four celebrities you’d like to have at your dinner table and explain why?

Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Pelé and Diego Maradona - as a child these footballers were my heroes.