Introducing Nokutenda Madzamba - Class of 2025
Nokutenda Madzamba / Portrait Photo: Kathy Pitout Photography
Q&A WITH Nokutenda Madzamba
1. What Inspired you to enrol at Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine?
I looked at a range of culinary institutions and Chef Jackie Cameron’s school stood out because of her style of teaching. And, with a small number of students in a class, it's easier for everyone to get the attention they need.
2. What are you hoping to achieve here?
I'm hoping to improve my cooking skills and gain knowledge on topics I never knew about. I also hope to create relationships I can take with me into the industry.
3. Explain what you are prepared to give of yourself.
I’m prepared to push through challenges I would have never imagined. I’ll reward myself if I succeed well in this course.
4. What is your long-term goal?
My long-term goal is to own at least five restaurants while working in the galley on a private yacht.
5. In how many years do you hope to achieve this?
I hope in five to 10 years.
6. Are you aware that the pressure you'll be placed under during the course will help you to achieve your goal? Elaborate on your ability to cope with pressure.
I work well under pressure. When it comes to getting things done, I sometimes realise I forgot something once the pressure has gone. I do forget the smallest things when I'm under pressure, but the work will get done.
7. Do you shy away from hard work? Elaborate on your answer.
I don't - but I do shy away when it comes to talking to a large group of people.
8. Are you willing to perform all tasks assigned to you? Give a reason for your answer.
I’m willing to perform all tasks assigned to me otherwise I’ll be letting down my peers and I’ll earn a bad reputation. This could create a bad habit so it's best I do my work and create a good habit.
9. Are you aware that the hospitality industry requires you to work on weekends and public holidays while guests ‘play’? Comment on this.
I am aware and as time goes by I will get used to the working hours. I already work on a Sunday in the kitchen at home.
10. Who is your favourite international foodie?
11. If food had a personality what dish would be most like you - and why?
Sadza (pap) because when in different settings I have a different personality, the way sadza changes when different vegetables and meats are added to it.
12. Where were you born and raised?
In Harare, Zimbabwe.
13. Apart from food, what hobbies do you enjoy?
Painting, listening to music, walking, exercising and various sports.
14. What dish do you find least inspiring? Explain your reason.
Sadza because it's tasteless and it's difficult to cook in a big pot.
15. Name four celebrities you'd like to have at your dinner table. Explain why.
1. Chrisitano Ronaldo - he is one of the most successful football players, but he is humble and he doesn't brag about it.
2. Gordon Ramsay - he can be harsh, but he offers good advice and he is a great teacher when advising people how to run their businesses properly.
3. Soy Georgina - social media personality, model, and entrepreneur, who rose to fame through her relationship with footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.
4. Melania Trump - she relocated into a country as an immigrant and became the first lady of that country.