Hot Cares and Guvon Academy cook up success for aspiring culinary star

When Isabelle Radford stepped into the Hot 102.7FM studio, she believed she was one of three finalists in line for a life-changing opportunity. What she didn’t know, was that her journey was already about to take a delicious turn — because she was the winner.

After an overwhelming number of entries, the team at Guvon Academy and Hot Cares carefully reviewed each application before unanimously selecting Isabelle as the 2025 recipient of the Guvon Chefs Bursary — a three-year, full-time qualification to the value of R360,000.

Isabelle’s story is one of resilience, humility, and heartfelt passion. Despite growing up in a home burdened by emotional and financial stress — especially following her mother’s recent health crisis — she remained committed to her dream of becoming a chef. Her love for cooking is more than a hobby — it’s how she connects, expresses, and finds purpose. In fact, Isabelle doesn’t just want to be a chef — she is one, at heart.

This bursary includes tuition, chef gear, international qualifications, and mentorship that will help shape her into the culinary powerhouse she’s destined to become.

Avril from Guvon Academy said, “Isabelle’s story and spirit deeply moved us. We’re proud to be part of her journey and can’t wait to see where her passion takes her.”

Hot Cares is proud to support young people like Isabelle — those who rise above their circumstances with grit, gratitude, and a desire to make their dreams come true. We know this is just the beginning for her — and we can’t wait to see her shine.