Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do ?
My name is Lebo Mpuang, I am originally from Johannesburg but now I reside in KZN and work a professional Chef.
How long have you been in the industry?
I have been in hospitality industry for over 10 years, working different establishments all over South Africa.
Has your work always been your passion? Tell us why?
Hospitality has always been my passion. Coming from a large family that enjoys spending time together and sharing. Food has always been our love language. The happiest place in my home is the kitchen so it only made sense for me to go into this industry.
Being a woman in the industry – what does it take?
The hospitality industry has always been a “boys” club, but as time has gone more and more woman are being recognised for their amazing contribution to the industry. Being a black woman in the industry I have always had to prove my worth and that I should be taken seriously. To strive in this industry, you have to have passion, focus and will.
What has been the most difficult challenge of your career?
My biggest challenge in this industry has been proving that young black female chefs can run and manage large kitchens, events and spaces in the hospitality industry and we are worthy of the respect and the opportunity.
What advice do you have for other women in your industry?
My advice to other females in the hospitality industry is, never lose your passion. Follow your heart always and don’t allow anyone or anything to take you off your frequency. Always strive to do your best and the rest will follow.
Plans for the future?
I have recently started working for an amazing hotel group in a setting and area that I love. My plans for my near future are to be an integral part of this hotel, to be a positive influence to those under me and to help the business grow and reach new financial heights.
I hope I have answered your questions enough. Thank you for the opportunity to share and I hope that my answers can shed some light on the hospitality indusrty and assist those interested in joining the industry.
Short Bio
Lebo hails from Cape Town, but grew up in Johannesburg, and with over 10 years’ experience under her chef’s apron, this seasoned Chef initially graduated from the renowned City & Guilds chef school, Capsicum Culinary Studio in 2014 where she completed her Level 2 diploma in food preparation, NQF Level 2 professional patisserie, international level and graduated with Merit.
After she graduated, Chef Lebo was hungry for a challenge, so, she packed a suitcase and travelled the overseas to gain international experience within the industry.
Having worked at the Hilton Group Hotels Double Tree in Guangzhou China, Chef Lebo was invited to participate on the award-winning cooking television show Top Chef where she came in the top 10.
Having had this experience, doors began to open, with her working with big brands Whirlpool SA and Kitchen Aid, where she was appointed as a brand ambassador working on large product content shoots and consumer brand awareness campaigns.
She has been featured in many recipe and lifestyle features with House & Home magazine and True Love Magazine just to mention a few. This launched her career into food styling and content creating.
In 2016 she launched her own private chef and catering company, having cooked for prominent families one of which is the current US Ambassador.
Her work includes that of curating and planning large scale events, such as Hope Craft Gin Penhouse Experience, Decorex Media Room and all whilst still working as head sous-chef at restaurants on a seasonal residency and where she also remodelled chef workstations, improved menus for bars and restaurants one of which was the Blu Flame Bar and Grill in Johannesburg, as well as filling her time working on corporate event cooking groups.
In 2019 Chef Lebo opened her own private cooking studio in the trendy dining hot-spot Maboneng where she offered her clients cooking classes and intimate five-star dining experiences.
When she is not in the kitchen, Chef Lebo loves experimenting on new culinary delights and now that she is living in the Midlands area, she is up for exploring and finding the best fresh local produce to introduce to the menu at Granny Mouse.
Website: www.grannymouse.co.za
