Africa-Press – Eswatini. Every time Thanda Mpumelelo Maphako steps into a kitchen, he’s not just cooking, he’s remembering. The sizzling pans, the rich aroma of spices, and the rhythm of chopping vegetables all take him back to his childhood in Msunduza, where a spark of passion was first lit beside his grandmother. A task once assigned in a house full of boys has become a passionate tribute to the woman who inspired him without even knowing.
That passion deepened after a life changing moment. “Unfortunately, she passed away in front of me,” he says. “So now, whenever I cook, I just remember her.” Her memory lives on in every dish he prepares. Cooking became more than just a skill it became a way to honour her legacy.
As Thanda grew, so did his confidence in the kitchen. He began cooking for friends, who praised his meals and encouraged him to take his talent further. One of his first big moments came during a family event , hosted by his a brother. “They were opening a new house, and I was asked to cook.
Word began to spread. Soon, Thanda was receiving house call requests people inviting him to cook for private events. “I don’t have a restaurant,” he says, “I only do gigs. But people keep calling.” His talent, once confined to family meals, was now being recognized on a broader scale.
One of the most pivotal opportunities came from Alliance Française. “I really want to thank them,” Thanda says with gratitude. “They trusted me.” Earlier this year, the organization invited him to lead a workshop focusing on traditional food. Sharing the cultural and emotional value of traditional dishes with others was a proud and fulfilling moment.
The workshop turned out to be a game changer. Attendees loved it, and it cemented Thanda’s place in their network. “Now, every time there’s an event, they call me. And from there, I’ve been getting more and more gigs.”
He is also planning to offer private catering at the MTN Bushfire Festival 2025, providing fresh, personalized meals for festival goers. Whether you’re camping, glamping, or staying nearby, he’ll prepare hearty breakfasts, energizing lunches, and flavorful dinners tailored to your tastes. With limited spaces, Thanda is encouraging groups to book early and enjoy delicious, hassle free meals throughout the festival.
Maphako story’s is one of resilience, memory, and passion. From a young boy cooking beside his grandmother to a respected self taught chef called upon by cultural institutions, his journey shows that talent paired with heart can open doors sometimes, even without a restaurant.
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