Powerhouse that is Matloha

MANY HATS: CHEF, ENTREPRENEUR, MOTHER, WIFE, COOKBOOK AUTHOR, COOKERY CLASS HOST

- Citizen reporter

In the vibrant world of South African cuisine, few names capture the warmth of family, the depth of cultural heritage and the hustle of entrepreneurial grit quite like Liziwe Matloha.

A chef, entrepreneur, mother, wife, cookbook author and cookery class host, Matloha embodies the balance between nurturing a family and building a powerful brand - all rooted in her love for food.

Born and raised in Boskop, a rural part of Potchefstroom in the North West, Matloha's early life was steeped in humble beginnings, tradition and shared family duties.

"The earliest memory I have of making food was around 13 years old, when we had to take turns cooking.

"Sundays were especially exciting because that's when we got to eat a proper meal with meat and veggies."

While many in her family cooked out of necessity, Matloha quickly discovered that her relationship with food went far beyond obligation. Even at that young age, for her it was about flavour, creativity and joy.

Some of her favourite memories are making desserts and baked treats for her father.

"My dad loved whatever I made him and I remember how wonderful I felt when he told me how delicious it was," she said.