Here at the Chefs Training & Innovation Academy, we have had the privilege of training many gifted alumni who have gone on to prove themselves more than capable of meeting their goals. One such student is Gratitude Zinhle Malunga, who stands testament to the fact that hard work, determination, and a can-do attitude are key ingredients for career success. With an unyielding commitment to growth and servicing her community at large, Gratitude is a beacon of hope for students facing hardship and obstacles.
Overcoming Personal and Professional Hurdles
Like many of our students, Gratitude is no stranger to the daunting challenges that life presents. After a difficult marriage and financial troubles, she knew that she had to find the courage to support herself and her family – and this time, by putting her dreams first. While Gratitude did not necessarily enjoy the kitchen while growing up (in fact, she loathed cooking), it was a need in her community that first set her onto the idea of starting a business.
Gratitude first noticed that few places in her surrounding location sold healthy food. After some market research, she realised that she could cater to her community in a meaningful way while still making money. In 2015, with much courage and faith, Gratitude became an informal food trader on the streets of Springs, Ekurhuleni with a start-up sum of only R5 000. Informal food traders in South Africa, however, face many challenges on the road to growth and success, and this is where Gratitude sought outside help by applying to the National Youth Development Agency. She also became a participant in the SAB Foundation Tholoana Programme which enabled her to continue to develop her own corporate catering company and pop-up restaurant, Kwa-Mamazala Café.
Gratitude is currently an E-learning (online training) student at the Chefs Training & Innovation Academy. She is looking forward to completing her 12-month programme, a City & Guilds Diploma in Food Preparation and Culinary Arts, which is an international certification registered in the UK as a National Vocational Qualification. The E-learning course enables her to balance her work, family life, and school, and we are not only proud of Gratitude, but excited about the bright future ahead of her.
Enrol with Us Today
You too can make your dreams a reality, whether you wish to study full-time, part-time, or online with us. Not only will our interactive, in-depth courses set you up for confidence and work readiness, but our certifications carry a stellar reputation that will open plenty of doors. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us online today.