Hot Cares and Guvon Academy open entries for life-changing chef bursary

For someone with talent, passion, and a dream of working in the culinary world, this could be the opportunity that changes everything.

Hot Cares and the Guvon Academy have officially opened entries for a fully funded three-year chef bursary valued at an incredible R350,000 — giving one deserving recipient the chance to pursue a professional culinary career without the financial burden.

The bursary was generously donated during the HOT 1027 Teddython 2025, continuing Guvon Academy’s long-standing support of Hot Cares initiatives and creating another meaningful opportunity for a deserving young South African.

The bursary is for the Occupational Certificate: Chef (SAQA ID 101697) and will begin in July 2026 in Johannesburg. Offered through the Guvon Academy — a proud member of the Guvon Hotels & Spas Group — the programme combines theoretical learning, practical training, and workplace experience to prepare graduates for the hospitality industry.

The successful applicant will receive full tuition, textbooks, a professional knife set, chef uniforms, and access to internationally recognised Highfield Qualifications from the UK.

Speaking on HOT 1027, Guvon Academy Managing Principal Avril Newton said the academy is looking for applicants who are genuinely passionate about the culinary world.

“You need somebody that’s passionate about going into the culinary world,” said Newton. “You’re going to work long hours, you’re going to be on your feet — but if you have the passion, we can help guide and teach you.”

She also stressed the importance of commitment and dedication: “You also don’t want to take a chance away from somebody else that will have that passion and drive.”

To apply, entrants will need:

• A matric certificate
• A copy of their ID or passport
• A motivational letter explaining why they deserve the bursary
• A short video showcasing their passion for the culinary arts

Entries close on Friday, 19 June 2026, with the winning bursary recipient set to be announced on Thursday, 2 July 2026.