Caraway culinary students showcased their skills at the Help Me app launch in Durban, working alongside top South African chefs in an unforgettable real-world experience.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Help Me App Launch

On 2–3 August, Caraway International Hospitality Institute students had the rare privilege of participating in the official launch of the Help Me app for the 4051 area in Durban. This high-profile event brought together leading chefs, industry professionals, and innovative thinkers, and our students were at the heart of it.

Cooking alongside some of South Africa’s most esteemed culinary talents, they experienced first-hand the pressure, pace, and precision of a professional kitchen during a live event. This opportunity was more than just a showcase; it was a career-defining moment.

This dynamic event featured two of South Africa’s most respected culinary talents: Chef Constantijn Hahndiek, Head Chef at Hartford House, celebrated for his elegant, locally-sourced fine dining and, Chef Rowan Larkin, Executive Chef at Māha Café in Durban, renowned for his creative use of KwaZulu-Natal flavours, Our students had the rare opportunity to cook alongside them, gaining insights into their culinary expertise and passion.

Learning from the Best Chefs

The event gave our students a unique platform to:

• Work in a kitchen environment with experienced culinary teams.
• Gain hands-on mentorship from top South African chefs.
• Enhance their confidence and skills through real-time service.

The Help Me app launch was buzzing with energy, from the moment our students stepped into the kitchen to the final plate leaving the pass. They quickly adapted to the fast-paced environment, applying techniques learned in the classroom while meeting the demands of a live event.

Skills Beyond the Kitchen

This experience was about much more than cooking. Students learned:

• Time management under pressure and meeting strict service deadlines.
• Effective communication with team members.
• Professional presentation in both food plating and personal conduct.

These are the soft skills that employers value highly in the hospitality industry, and our students proved they could meet, and exceed those expectations.

Why Opportunities Like This Matter

At Caraway International, we believe in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Events like the Help Me app launch provide:

• Industry networking opportunities for future career growth.
• A platform to build confidence early in a chef’s journey.
• Memorable experiences that inspire lifelong passion for the culinary arts.

Reflecting on an Unforgettable Culinary Experience

The Help Me app launch was a celebration of innovation, community, and culinary excellence. For our students, it was a transformative moment; one that reinforced their skills, fuelled their ambitions, and connected them to the heartbeat of South Africa’s hospitality industry. We couldn’t be prouder of the professionalism, enthusiasm, and passion they displayed.

Join Us for Future Caraway Culinary Opportunities

If you’re ready to take your culinary career to the next level and gain real-world experience like this, enrol at Caraway International today.