Chef showcases passion on a plate

The Citizen

a day ago

From slicing vegetables at his grandmother's side to working in professional kitchens across the US, Siyabulela Khuse has built a culinary journey defined by passion, perseverance, and creativity.
• Also read: Fashion takes centre stage in Rand West
Known by childhood friends as Dijo – the Setswana word for 'food' – Khuse discovered his love for cooking early on.
'I ended up adopting my grandmother's cooking techniques,' he recalled.
After matriculating, he trained at the HTA School of Culinary Arts in Randburg and went on to work in various esteemed kitchens, including stints in North Carolina and Florida. In 2017 and again in 2019, he sharpened his skills abroad, learning from top chefs and refining his own approach.
Everybody can cook, but not everyone can be a chef,' he said. 'I've given it my all.'
Today, Khuse runs his own business, MacZino's, where he combines Swiss, Italian, and French influences with traditional African dishes. 'I'm always trying to strike a balance between new and classic flavours.'
Despite the challenges of the profession – long hours, pressure, and high standards – he's determined to grow. He hopes to return to the US to deepen his skills and later open a restaurant in his hometown, mentoring young chefs.
'Stay humble and never give up,' he advises. 'You need heart, strength, and a great mentor.'
Khuse will showcase his culinary art at the Rand West Fashion Festival until June 28, adding flavour to fashion with his unique dishes.