Meet the 1000 Hills Chef school team taking part in the Hirsch’s Head Chef Competition!
Jack Lai – 2nd Year
Jack Lai attended the Sacred Heart College in Johannesburg and had his heart set on becoming a scientist until his matric year where he discovered his passion for cooking as well as following in his family’s footsteps who own and run a successful catering business. It is Jack’s dream to travel and learn as much as he can about the culinary arts and one day create something nobody has ever seen before in the hopes that it will make history within the chef community. Jack’s favorite appliance in the kitchen is the oven and stove as they can both cook and bake at the same time. Jack Lai was the winner of the South African Avocado Grower’s Association Young Chef’s Challenge in 2016, and is a talented and driven young chef who enjoys every food that tastes nice. Commented Jack “I feel extremely happy to represent such a wonderful school”
Matthew Burke – 1st Year
Matthew Burke attended Heron Bridge College in Johannesburg and has been interested in becoming a chef since he was in high school. His favourite appliance is a gas oven because it can cook all foods quickly and evenly, his favourite food is seafood and it is his dream to one day own his own restaurant, aiming for Michelin stars. Matthew feels incredibly honoured to be selected for the Hirsch’s Head Chef competition and to be able to help his 2nd year Jack Lai.