The Rheenendal Centre of the Knysna Municipal Youth Desk in Ward 5 hosted a Youth Cooking Competition on Friday 14 July at the Community Hall. The competition aimed to inspire young people who have a passion for food to enhance their cooking skills and to use these to create employment opportunities.
Participants included five young people from the Rheenendal community. Entrants were challenged to prepare a three-course meal within 90 minutes. These meals were then presented to the judges, three members of the local hospitality industry. “I have always had a passion for youth development and the upliftment of our community,” said Knysna Executive Mayor and Ward 5 Councillor Eleanore Bouw-Spies. “Young people need and deserve our support and, occasionally, a gentle push in the right direction.”
“Youth development remains one of this municipality’s top priorities, but we cannot do it without the collaboration of stakeholders from the private and public sectors. Thank you the Rheenendal Taxi Association that donated R600 towards a cash prize, and The Red Barn Country Restaurant for offering an internship as a prize. I personally appreciate the support you have shown for our youth,” she concluded.
Charl Madine Botha was awarded an internship opportunity at The Red Barn Country Restaurant and Eugenie Dlisani walked away with the cash prize. All participants received goodie bags and will receive formal cooking lessons sponsored by Kilzer’s Kitchen.