ALSO READ: Lucy Beard and her botanicals are leading the way for South Africa’s craft GINdustry
From winemakers to tequila distillers, ice cream cones and fine dining and even a sustainable fishing ambassador – these five women are proving that South African creativity knows no boundaries!
Jess van Dyk – Head Chef, La Colombe
Chef, traveller, and now chef again – Jess has returned to La Colombe this winter as second in command of one of South Africa’s top kitchens. A daunting prospect for some perhaps, but Chef Jess seems to have taken it all in her stride. With a passion for food and a dedication to detail, it’s so great to see a young South African woman pushing the boundaries in a world class fine dining restaurant! Visit La Colombe for an unforgettable meal!
Jamie Fredericks – Assistant Winemaker, Nederburg Wines
At one of South Africa’s most revered and awarded wine estates is a powerhouse team of lady winemakers. The team of five at Nederburg is headed by Andrea Freeborough who is assisted by Elmarie Botes, Samuel Viljoen, Bennie Liebenberg and most recently, young Capetonian Jamie Fredericks. With a fierce determination, a strong sense of family and of course, a love of wine, Jamie says “I want my legacy to show that no matter where you come from, or what situation you are in, there is always a way out. I am from the Cape flats and that will forever be part of who I am, but should not determine what I accomplish in life.”
ALSO WATCH: First look inside the new La Colombe
Marianne Visser – Co Founder of The Creamery Ice Cream Co.
What started as a small dream for Marianne, and her business partner Kate Schrire, has now become a institution for Capetonians. Leading the wave of hand made, natural ice creams was a challenge over 6 years ago, but today the brand is well established with 3 stand alone dessert cafes. Marianne brings a strong sense of empathy to her hectic daily life as the leader of a food startup, and with her visual aesthetic, has helped to mould The Creamery into one of our most loved food brands.
Kerry Kilpin – Executive Chef of Bistro Sixteen82
With a provenance from some of South Africa’s best kitchens (La Colombe, and Franck Dangereux’s Food Barn), Chef Kerry has been diligently working to build a menu of small sharing plates packed with flavour at Steenberg Estate. She is also known and respected in restaurant circles for her early support for Abalobi, a sustainable fishing platform that connects chefs and diners directly with fishermen and their crews. You can find some Kerry’s recipes here, or if you’re not in the mood for cooking at home, go and taste some of her food at Bistro Sixteen82.
Lucy Beard – Co-Founder and Distiller, Hope on Hopkins Gin
Most of us know that the Gin Revolution has swept through South Africa, but not many of us realise that it is mostly thanks to this woman: Lucy Beard. Her own brand, Hope on Hopkins, can be found in most bars (and homes!) throughout South Africa, as well as any number of the gins that have found their home under her roof in Salt River. Lucy has recently released a local Tequila, the Esperanza Blanco, which is winning over fans in dozens. Cheers to that!
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