It is imperative that we build quality entrepreneurial role models and Ayabonga Gope is one to watch.

Being a finalist on Top Chef SA brought Ayabonga Gope into the public eye as a rising star in the food industry. The experience was one of Ayabonga’s highlights in his career and equipped Ayabonga with the confidence needed to pursue the culinary profession full-time.

From making eggs, rice, and tomato sauce for friends, in his home in Khayelitsha, to cooking for high profiled guests in their homes around Cape Town. Ayabonga’s food journey has been blessed with many opportunities along the way, but nothing has come to him without hard work and dedication. In this episode, Heavy Chef Project Manager, Siyabonga Mbaba unpacks the lessons Aya has learned along his incredible journey.