The four exceptional Color Your Plate with KOO bursary recipients were presented with their certificates at the famous and internationally acclaimed Jacqui Cameron School of Food & Wine.

Johannesburg born Khothatso Mathibe, Lihle Mahambehlala, hailing from Bloemfontein, Kamohelo Ayanda Mokhele, and Durban’s Lungelo Sphesihle Mbele were awarded year-long bursaries to not only sharpen their culinary skills courtesy of KOO at the Jacqui Cameron School of Food and Wine, but also provided a golden opportunity to be mentored by the internationally renowned Chef, Reuben Riffle.

In admiration of her students, Jacqui Cameron stated, “They were an absolute delight to work with and always put their best foot forward.” It was obvious that they would succeed right away because their winning recipes had earned them the opportunity. I can’t wait to see what they do in the many kitchens they’ll work in if they don’t create their own Michelin-starred restaurants since they’re so talented and ready to show off their skills.”

During the inaugural season of Colour Your Plate with KOO in 2021, KOO created the fully funded 18-month R500k all-expenses paid scholarship program, with an aim to identify young culinary talent and equip them to flourish in South Africa’s thriving culinary sector. The students not only broadened their minds by trying new cuisines, but they also got essential knowledge from the industry’s best.

Season 1&2 ‘s success showcased South Africa’s culinary landscape and take on the vast and diverse cuisines that celebrate the vibrant and colourful rainbow nation with plates just as vibrant with KOO’s nutritious canned goods. KOO’S brand heritage spans over 80 years with a catalogue as diverse as our Rainbow Nation and remains open to interpretation as boldly and flavorful by every culture, and ethnicity this beautiful country holds.

KOO has successfully embraced a more youth-centric approach in its endeavours having partnered with Bacardi Holiday Club and youth brand Thesis, they have solidified their presence in the youth space, experiencing remarkable growth in sales among the 18-35 age group. The bursary programme is aimed at unleashing young talent to continue KOO’s unbridled legacy in the culinary space.

Edna Mohale-Maphita, Tiger Brands Marketing Director, emphasized the significance of tapping into young talent and uplifting them to realize their dreams, as they hold the key to South Africa’s future.

“At KOO, we believe in the development and investing in the future leaders and change agents of tomorrow.The youth of Mzansi hold a crucial position in shaping the country’s trajectory, therefore, it is essential for us to engage with young talent and providing them with visibility and support to pursue their dreams,”

Edna Mohale-Maphita, Tiger Brands Marketing Director

In addition, Edna shared; “Through Colour Your Plate with KOO platform it is important that we break new culinary boundaries and show South African’s the versatility of KOO’s canned goods while also highlighting the brands nutritious values and time it takes to source the yummy goodness that goes into South Africa’s most loved canned goods.”

To stand a chance to be one of Colour Your Plate with KOO bursary recipients, keep purchasing KOO products and keep your eyes peeled to your Television screens for the 3^rd season of Colour Your Plate With KOO that will have all details for this year’s recipients and follow KOO on all social media platforms to stay up to date.