Meet Aggie – Kapama’s Culinary Maestro
This past National Women’s Day, we celebrated the inspiring stories of women whose resilience and passion continue to shape the world around them.
One such story belongs to Chef Aggie, whose journey from the scullery to Head Chef at Kapama Private Game Reserve is nothing short of extraordinary.
From scullery to stove
Aggie’s love for cooking began early in life — driven by curiosity and the joy of bringing people together through food.
In 2004, while working as a dishwasher at Hongonyi Private Game Lodge, an unexpected opportunity changed her life forever.
When a colleague fell ill, Aggie volunteered to help prepare meals. At first, everyone thought she was joking — until lodge owners Thomas and Shirley Maan tasted her food. They were astonished. Her dishes were not only delicious but crafted with such heart and care that they immediately recognised her natural talent.
With their encouragement and guidance from her cousin, Paul (also a chef), Aggie began her journey into the demanding but rewarding world of professional cooking. From those first few days, she embraced the discipline, creativity, and consistency required in a busy kitchen — qualities that would later define her career.
A Rising Star at Kapama
Her dedication eventually led her to Kapama Private Game Reserve, where she started as a sous chef. Under the mentorship of Executive Chef Hanli Roberts, Aggie’s leadership, creativity, and calm presence in the kitchen shone through.
Through years of commitment and perseverance, she rose to become Head Chef, a role she now leads with distinction.
A Passion Beyond the Plate
For Aggie, cooking is far more than a profession — it’s an expression of love, culture, and creativity.
She draws inspiration from traditional South African dishes such as bobotie and oxtail, which she prepares with both authenticity and her own distinctive flair.
To her, food tells a story — of heritage, home, and connection. Each plate she serves carries a sense of warmth, generosity, and genuine passion.
Guests often remark on the emotional connection her food creates. One guest once shared that Aggie’s bobotie reminded them of childhood meals at home — proof of the lasting impact of food made with love.
Leading with Strength and Heart
As Head Chef, Aggie leads with humility, patience, and a strong sense of teamwork.
She mentors her colleagues, encourages creativity, and sets high standards rooted in kindness and respect.
Her calm leadership style empowers her team while ensuring every guest experiences a meal prepared with sincerity and care.
Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Women
Aggie’s journey has not been without its challenges. The culinary world remains largely male-dominated, and as a young woman, she often had to prove her worth through long hours and relentless determination.
But rather than letting obstacles define her, she used them as stepping stones toward success.
Her rise from the scullery to Head Chef is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of women in leadership. On National Women’s Day, her story highlights what becomes possible when women are allowed to shine — and when they believe in their own potential.
Aggie’s advice to young women entering the field is simple yet powerful:
“Never let challenges hold you back. Use them as opportunities to grow, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward.”
A Passion Beyond the Plate
For Aggie, cooking is far more than a profession — it’s an expression of love, culture, and creativity.
She draws inspiration from traditional South African dishes such as bobotie and oxtail, which she prepares with both authenticity and her own distinctive flair.
To her, food tells a story — of heritage, home, and connection. Each plate she serves carries a sense of warmth, generosity, and genuine passion.
Guests often remark on the emotional connection her food creates. One guest once shared that Aggie’s bobotie reminded them of childhood meals at home — proof of the lasting impact of food made with love.
Leading with Strength and Heart
As Head Chef, Aggie leads with humility, patience, and a strong sense of teamwork.
She mentors her colleagues, encourages creativity, and sets high standards rooted in kindness and respect.
Her calm leadership style empowers her team while ensuring every guest experiences a meal prepared with sincerity and care.
Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Women
Aggie’s journey has not been without its challenges. The culinary world remains largely male-dominated, and as a young woman, she often had to prove her worth through long hours and relentless determination.
But rather than letting obstacles define her, she used them as stepping stones toward success.
Her rise from the scullery to Head Chef is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of women in leadership. On National Women’s Day, her story highlights what becomes possible when women are allowed to shine — and when they believe in their own potential.
Aggie’s advice to young women entering the field is simple yet powerful:
“Never let challenges hold you back. Use them as opportunities to grow, believe in yourself, and keep pushing forward.”
To celebrate Women’s Day, Chef Aggie shares one of her signature recipes with the Kapama family. By passing on the knowledge and passion that have shaped her career, she hopes to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking — a reminder that food has the power to connect, uplift, and tell stories across generations.
