By Yolanda Basi
At just 26, Vuyani Mnqobisi Nzaca has already seen more of the world than most people dream of. Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, he now works with the Royal Caribbean Group in the United States. From township roots to international waters, his journey spans continents and cultures. Nzaca is part of a growing generation of ambitious young South Africans proving that your beginnings don’t define your future.
Raised by a nurse mother and a detective father, Nzaca grew up in a family that valued hard work and determination. As a child, he loved playing rugby and watching cooking shows, especially BBC Food, where Gordon Ramsay sparked his imagination. Little did he know, one day he would be carving out his own path in the culinary world.
Nzaca’s education took him through several schools, from Grange Primary, Beddow Christian School Academy, and Forest Hill Primary but no matter the changes, his focus remained unwavering. His love for sports and cooking grew stronger with each passing year. At French Primary School, he learned to swim while continuing to play rugby, but it was the kitchen that began to capture his heart.
By his teenage years, cooking had become more than a hobby. He spent hours helping his mother, mastering traditional South African dishes. One of his fondest memories is the first time he cooked for his family in 2011. That moment confirmed his calling.
“I remember it so clearly,” said his sister, Nonceba Nzaca. “It was his first time cooking, and for someone his age, it was surprising and amusing. From that moment, we knew he was going to turn out great.”
After high school, Nzaca faced the reality of chasing his dreams. He moved from job to job, worked in various restaurants, and even spent time on a farm in Pretoria. Each challenge only fueled his determination.
In 2018, he took a major step forward, enrolling in culinary school. He earned a certificate in food preparation from the Hospitality Training Group, followed by a diploma in culinary arts from the International Hotel School. His dedication paid off when he landed a role on a cruise ship, working alongside chefs from around the world.
Today, Nzaca is a chef aboard the Celebrity Constellation, a cruise ship sailing across Europe and the US. He has visited 12 countries and relishes the opportunities that have shaped his career. Despite the challenges adapting to life at sea, overcoming prejudice, and the culture shock, he has remained committed to his craft, constantly learning and improving.
His long-term goal is to own a McDonald’s franchise, but for now, he plans to open a food establishment in South Africa, blending traditional dishes with fast food favorites. What sets Nzaca apart is his relentless drive to give his best, no matter the circumstances. He celebrates every victory, remains focused on his goals, and draws strength from his faith and family.
“Vuyani has a resilient spirit,” said his mother, Phumzile Nzaca. “I always knew he would make it. That is why I invested in his education and encouraged him to reach his full potential.”
Nzaca himself says, “I’m not giving up. I want to learn from everyone, no matter their background, and push myself to be the best I can.”
Colleagues have noticed his determination too. Thando Sibisi, a former classmate at the Hospitality Training Group, says, “It was like he had been in the kitchen for decades. He made no mistakes and was completely dedicated. I have no doubt he will become one of the top chefs I admire.”
Looking back, Nzaca is grateful for every twist and turn of his journey. With passion, resilience, and an unyielding spirit, he is poised to leave a lasting mark on the culinary world. He hopes his story inspires young black South Africans to keep pushing forward because nothing is impossible when you refuse to quit.
“I take time to celebrate every career milestone,” he says. “I may change paths in the future, but for now, this is where my heart is.”
With his talent, ambition, and dedication, the future looks bright for this extraordinary South African chef.
