As part of the Reaching for Young Stars programme, we take learning beyond the classroom and into the heart of the Cape Winelands, where our young chefs and hospitality students experience first-hand the superb wineries that define the region. Through immersive visits, they meet leading wine producers and gain insight into world-class standards, as well […]
Craft, Crema and BARISTAS: The Art of Extraction
Our Young Stars are learning the skills and techniques, perfecting espresso shots to milk frothing, they are gaining hands-on experience that sharpens their palate and builds their confidence. Each new skill they acquire is a boost toward a promising career in hospitality. They’ll soon put their talents to the test as Avanti Coffee Judges Paddington […]
Balance in the Glass: Cocktails & Pairing Meet the Young Star BEVERAGE STUDENTS
The role of the Beverage Students of the ‘Taj Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars’ is not simply to serve, but to enhance every dish through thoughtful pairing and a deep understanding of flavour. They are tasked with creating a signature cocktail using KWV 3 YO Brandy, lifted with the elegance of Perrier and complemented by a […]
GRAIN & CRAFT WITH THE YOUNG STAR BAKERS
The Bakers of the ‘Taj Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars’ programme now bring their quiet discipline and craftsmanship to the fore. Bread, in its purest form, is a reflection of patience, precision, and respect for ingredients, a true test of a chef’s understanding of fundamentals. As part of their journey, they had the privilege […]
SWEET SPICE FOR OUR PASTRY CHEFS
Anique Ramawoothar of LANCEWOOD with Q&A Winners Tariro Mtoko (Pastry Chef) and Tafadzwa Mupotsa (Beverage) from Capsicum Culinary Studio representing Emeris & La Motte Team! Congratulations 🙌 Fabulous prizes from LANCEWOOD – #ReachingForYoungStars2026 The Pastry Chefs of the ‘Taj Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars’ programme now take centre stage, bringing with them a sense […]
Spice, Skill & Rising Stars ✨Meet the Young Stars HOT CHEFS 2026
The Hot Chefs of the ‘Taj Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars‘ programme step into the spotlight with both passion and purpose, having immersed themselves in a series of inspiring workshops at Taj Cape Town. Through these experiences, they have begun to understand that Indian cuisine is not simply about flavour, but about balance, heritage, […]
Even small positive shifts in thinking, create huge results if you are consistent in your efforts – Nanette Mathews
A high-energy 2026 programme for this year’s TAJ Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars, bringing together inspiring speakers and real-world topics that matter to today’s youth. From communication and wellbeing to modern nutrition, kitchen hygiene and sustainability, the focus is on building skills for life and work. With key themes such as diabetes awareness and […]
TAJ CAPE TOWN REACHING FOR YOUNG STARS 2026
Elevating Talent in the Hospitality Industry As we launch the prestigious 2026 edition of Reaching for Young Stars, hosted by Taj Cape Town, the spotlight shines brightly on the Western Cape fast becoming a magnet for both national and international tourism. This growth brings with it an increased demand for world-class culinary academies, where students can […]
A BANNER YEAR FOR OUR WINNERS
2026 sees the launch of our Reaching for Young Stars, this year hosted by TAJ Cape Town, making it the TAJ Cape Town Reaching for Young Stars! The 2025 winners of the Cape Grace Reaching for Young Stars are already making their mark and flying the South African flag! Mia Wicomb of CTIA – Chefs […]
Meet the Inter-Hotel Challenge Wine Stewards Leading the Way with Cocktails!
Rooted in tradition yet endlessly adaptable, Flor de Caña rum lends depth, warmth, and elegance to cocktails that truly deserve the spotlight, while Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks add vibrant, uplifting flavours, a perfect pairing for mixing magic! FLORA DE CHELLOPresented by Wine Steward Sfiso Soldaat, The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa 100 ml Flor De […]