Zola Nene is a celebrated South African chef, food personality, and culinary storyteller whose career spans more than a decade of hands-on kitchen experience, food media mastery, and creative leadership in the culinary world. Her journey began unconventionally: after two years studying BCom Law, she took a leap of faith, moved to England on a working visa, and discovered her true calling in the heat of a professional kitchen. From the hot section to head pastry chef in a Cheshire brasserie, she sharpened her craft through real-world experience and a willingness to learn from the ground up.
Returning to South Africa, Zola enrolled at the Institute of Culinary Arts in Stellenbosch, where she trained under acclaimed chefs including Margot Janse and Chris Erasmus. She later specialized in Food Media, developing the skills that would shape her into one of the country’s most recognizable culinary voices. Her time as a food assistant at a leading magazine refined her recipe development, styling, and storytelling talents—skills she continues to bring to television, publishing, and live events
Zola Nene culinary career spans over 10 years and started during her second-year study gap in England. After studying BCom. Law for two years, Chef Zola Nene realised that it was not the career path she wanted to pursue and so applied for a UK holiday working visa and ventured off to England to discover what it was she really wanted to do.
“I’ve always been interested in food so I decided to look for a job in a professional kitchen,” reminisces Zola. “I worked in a brasserie in Cheshire for two years, first as a hot section chef and then as the head pastry chef.
I have really paid my dues!” After Zola Nene two-year stint in England, she returned to South Africa and immediately enrolled at the Institute of Culinary Arts in Stellenbosch. During her studies, she had the opportunity to work with some top local chefs such as Margot Janse of Le Quartier François and Chris Erasmus of Foliage Restaurant.
And then, after specialising in Food Media in her third year of studies, Zola perfected her trade as a food assistant at a leading food and lifestyle magazine for six months.
From catering management to TV kitchens, Zola is known for her warm presence, flavorful approach, and ability to make cuisine both joyful and achievable. She bridges professional technique with everyday practicality, connecting deeply with audiences who crave inspiration, creativity, and relatable guidance. Whether appearing on screen, hosting demonstrations, or delivering keynotes, Zola offers a fresh, grounded perspective that celebrates food as culture, memory, and connection.
Zola Nene develops recipes for brands and a variety of publications, is available as an emcee and food judge, and works as a food stylist.
Simply Delicious – Zola Nene In her own words, she says, ‘Food has always been a huge part of my life; important occasions were always marked with a feast of some sort…’ this book chronicles my food journey thus far – how it started and what has shaped me into the chef I am today.’
And that’s exactly what Simply Delicious is all about; it’s Zola’s culinary career told through her recipes, interspersed with snippets and perspectives of her life journey, including tributes to the people who have inspired and influenced her cooking style and explaining the reason for certain culinary choices that she has made.
If one had to describe Zola’s personality in a single idea, it would be ‘irrepressible joy’, which is the thread running through this journey as well as the state evoked by her delicious dishes.
Her food philosophy is very simple – cooking is for everyone. With easy-to-follow instructions, the recipes will ensure that anyone can produce mouth-watering results.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and subscribe to our YouTube channel
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Virtual speaking appearances can indeed offer cost savings compared to in-person events. Virtual speaking rates are often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates due to factors such as reduced travel expenses and logistics. This makes virtual events a cost-effective alternative for organizations looking to book speakers within a budget.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
Matsi Modise is a trailblazer in South Africa’s entrepreneurship and business landscape, renowned for her visionary leadership, commitment to entrepreneurial activism, and passion for creating sustainable change. As the Managing Director of SiMODiSA, Matsi leads an industry association with a mission to accelerate entrepreneurship by collaborating with policymakers to enhance the success rate of high-impact, […]
Nosipho Siwisa-Damasane is a force to be reckoned with. Described in Finding the Woman Within: How to thrive in a male dominated society as being a shatterer of glass ceilings and someone who rewrote the rules, she has won multiple awards which have honoured her work as CEO of a variety of highly recognised companies. […]
Alistair Mokoena is a trailblazing leader and a prominent figure in South Africa’s business and digital transformation landscape. As the Country Director for Google South Africa, he drives innovation and technological progress across industries, empowering businesses to harness the power of digital solutions. A seasoned expert in leadership, strategy, and digital transformation, Alistair is a […]
Sarah Langa is a South African lifestyle storyteller, fashion influencer, entrepreneur, and global creative voice whose unique blend of academic insight, artistic expression, and cultural resonance has positioned her as one of the continent’s most compelling modern tastemakers. Known for her distinct visual aesthetic, her ability to build community through storytelling, and her thoughtful approach […]
Nambitha Mpumlwana wears many hats from businesswoman, humanitarian, philanthropist, charity patron and many more. She is an inspirational, dynamic woman whose talent has touched many people. As a corporate programme director and event MC, she commands a room with elegance, intelligence, and charm. She is known for expertly balancing seriousness with warmth, seamlessly guiding conferences, […]
Sibahle Magadla is an Economic Development Specialist and emerging African voice in diplomacy. With a passion for amplifying African Voices on the Global Stage, she is deeply motivated to contribute towards global conversations and networks on inclusive growth, governance, and sustainable development. Her work in advancing economic growth, labour market resilience, and job creation has […]
Sizakele Marutlulle, founder and CEO of a pan-African strategy and advisory firm, is a powerful voice in reimagining business through a human-centered lens. She champions Humancentric Creatives, a pioneering approach that places people, not just profit, at the heart of organizational success. Sizakele’s advisory work guides leaders across the continent to design inclusive futures, build […]
With a commanding presence and an unwavering commitment to education, Professor Jonathan Jansen stands as a beacon of inspiration within the academic community. As a distinguished South African leader, he embodies the essence of resilience, intellect, and compassion. His journey, marked by transformative leadership and profound insights, has positioned him as a sought-after speaker globally. […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
