SA Chefs sets bold course for 2026 with African Culinary Cup homecoming and industry partnerships
South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs) has set out an ambitious and forward-looking agenda for 2026, headlined by the return of the African Culinary Cup to South Africa and a strengthened focus on education, professional recognition and industry collaboration.
Speaking at a recent SA Chefs networking breakfast, President Chef Coo Pillay welcomed honorary presidents Manfred Muellers and Heinz Brunner, the SA Chefs Board, regional chairs, portfolio committee members, partners and members, describing the gathering as “more than just an event on a calendar” but a moment to connect, share ideas and shape the future of the profession.
Strengthening the foundations
Chef Coo reaffirmed SA Chefs’ vision to uplift the standards, status and skills of chefs across the country, while positioning South Africa as a respected voice in the global culinary landscape.
Central to this strategy is a renewed focus on education and career development, professional recognition and meaningful industry collaboration.
Over the past year, SA Chefs has launched and expanded a new membership portal designed to modernise member engagement. The platform serves as a central hub for certification tracking, communication and future learning opportunities, enhancing the overall member experience.
In addition, the association has brought its official magazine back in-house, allowing greater editorial independence and authentic storytelling. Members, partners and industry associates are encouraged to contribute, ensuring the publication reflects the true voice of South Africa’s culinary community.
Expanding global connections
The year opened on a strong international footing through an exchange programme with the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations. Young Chef Seham Beriche represented South Africa at the World Culinary Heritage Summit, strengthening global ties and deepening cross-cultural culinary exchange.
Chef Coo also attended Indus Food 2026 alongside Chef Andy Cuthbert, President of Worldchefs, further reinforcing SA Chefs’ commitment to global engagement and international standards.
Looking ahead, SA Chefs will proudly represent South Africa at the upcoming Worldchefs Congress in Wales, continuing to strengthen international relationships and ensure members remain globally connected.
The SA Chefs Village at Hostex
SA Chefs will once again serve as an anchor partner of HOSTEX, which celebrates 40 years in 2026. The former Skillery has evolved into the SA Chefs Village – a dynamic, immersive space featuring live demonstrations, product activations, chef challenges, thought-leadership sessions and a dedicated membership lounge.
The association is also supporting SA Food Stories, a food-focused vodcast collaboration between First National Bank, Bidfood and SA Chefs, celebrating South African food culture and the professionals who bring it to life.
African Culinary Cup 2026: A continental stage
The highlight of 2026 will be the return of the African Culinary Cup to home soil. Founded by SA Chefs in 2014 under the leadership of Chef Stephen Billingham, the competition has travelled across Africa and the Middle East, serving as a Worldchefs-endorsed qualifying platform and skills benchmark for national teams.
From 10 to 12 June 2026, SA Chefs will host the Cup at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in strategic partnership with the Africa Food Show.
The event is expected to attract between 8,000 and 10,000 trade visitors, more than 200 exhibitors and hospitality professionals from over 20 countries, significantly amplifying exposure for participating chefs and sponsors.
For the first time, the mandatory ingredient list has been left open, creating opportunities for “hero products” to define the 2026 theme of Modern Roots. SA Chefs has introduced six tiers of monetary sponsorship, designed to support the infrastructure required for a Worldchefs-sanctioned event and to build momentum toward a future bid to host the Worldchefs Congress in 2032.
Regional impact and investment in youth
SA Chefs continues to strengthen its national footprint, with active regional structures in eight provinces. Each region has been mandated to host an annual networking breakfast, Infochef session and fundraising golf day.
The Gauteng region will host its golf day on 13 May 2026, raising funds for bursaries to support young chefs pursuing qualifications in Professional Cookery.
A call to partnership
Chef Coo closed by thanking partners, corporate members and sponsors for their ongoing support, describing them as enablers of education, skills development and life-changing opportunities across the country.
“To our members and associates – you are the heart of SA Chefs,” he said. “Together, we are not only shaping kitchens; we are shaping careers, communities and the future of South African cuisine.”
Supplied by: South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs)
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