In a nation grappling with high youth unemployment rates, the Cooktastic Hub NPC has emerged as a beacon of opportunity and hope for young South Africans. Established in 2019 and officially launched in March 2020, Cooktastic is a pioneering social enterprise that provides holistic culinary training and personal development programs to youth from disadvantaged background in Cape Town, ultimately creating pathways to sustainable careers in the hospitality sector.
With a remarkable 85% employment rate among its graduates, Cooktastic has already trained 242 students—222 of whom have successfully graduated—thanks to its partnerships with leading hospitality establishments. This innovative training model equips young people with valuable culinary and hospitality skills, enabling many to secure full-time positions or even pursue entrepreneurial paths.
A Sustainable Model Through Chumani by Cooktastic – Bakery, Bistro and Catering
Cooktastic’s hybrid business model includes the Cooktastic Bakery, Bistro and Catering (Pty) LTD, operating under the brand name Chumani by Cooktastic, that serves corporate clients, locals, and tourists. This income-generating venture enables Cooktastic to partly fund its mission while providing graduates with real-world experience. Chumani’s registration with key platforms like WC Central Supplier Database and WESGRO also offers alumni additional employment opportunities.
What is Chumani?
Chumani is a Bakery, Bistro, and Catering service where Cooktastic Chefs learn how to run a business, based in Woodstock, Cape Town. Chumani means “Let’s Thrive”!
They focus on sustainability and supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Their top graduates create divine meals and bakery products using locally sourced ingredients and artisanal methods.
Dining at Chumani means enjoying a tasteful, forward-thinking experience while contributing to a better world – supporting people, health, and nature.
The Bakery
Step into Chumani Artisanal Bakery! The chefs craft delicious, naturally baked breads like sourdough and soft, melt-in-your-mouth pastries. They bake the “old- fashioned way” using sustainable, local ingredients and stone-ground flour, allowing time for the production process to create incredible breads and pastries.
Chumani Bakery supplies premium hospitality partners in Cape Town and features products on the CHUMANI Bistro Menu at The Palms Centre, Woodstock. Fresh products are also available daily for enjoyment at home.
Experience the wonder of their bread and pastries – with social impact baked in!
Bistro
Looking for a lunch spot or takeaway with flavour- bursting food? This Woodstock bistro is perfect for a lunch break with delicious sandwiches, divine smoothies, and a daily special meal.
Chumani sources ingredients locally and offer a light, nutritious menu crafted by their talented young chefs.
Catering
Whether it’s a small gathering, dinner party, corporate event, or cooking class, CHUMANI Catering has you covered. Their top Cooktastic graduates provide a unique catering experience at your convenience.
The Woodstock venue is also available for hire, ideal for team building and culinary classes.
Empowering Young Entrepreneurs
In 2024, Cooktastic launched an entrepreneurial initiative to support alumni in starting culinary businesses. This program connects alumni with business networks in the food industry, nurturing a new generation of South African culinary entrepreneurs.
Building a brighter future for the South African Youth
With an annual application pool exceeding 900, Cooktastic currently trains 100 young people each year and has recently expanded its training facilities at The Palms. This growth underscores Cooktastic’s commitment to addressing youth unemployment by developing Cape Town’s future hospitality leaders
For more information, partnerships, or media inquiries, please contact: Marieza van Zyl – Mobile 082 880 7572 or mariezavz@gmail.com
Chumani – The Palms, Unit A 102, 145 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock, Cape Town
Operating hours: 8am until 4pm – Monday to Friday. December 2024 – 8am until 9pm – Monday to Saturday
Cooktastic – Empowering Youth, Transforming Communities, Inspiring Change
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