When Sikhangele Poyo joined the Amy Foundation’s Hospitality Programme with nothing but a dream and a love for cooking, he never imagined it would lead him from a small kitchen in Cape Town to travelling the world as a celebrated pastry chef on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.
Global (30 December 2024) – What if a single decision could change the course of your life? For Sikhangele Poyo, a young man with a passion for cooking and a dream of something greater, that decision came when he joined the Amy Foundation in 2016. What followed was a journey of growth, learning, and success, culminating in a career that now spans the globe.
The Amy Foundation, based in Cape Town, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young South Africans from challenged communities. Through skills development programmes in areas like hospitality, arts, and sports, the foundation provides opportunities that transform lives and pave the way for brighter futures.
For Sikhangele, the foundation was a lifeline at a time of uncertainty. After finishing high school, he was unsure of what to do next, having faced rejections from private institutions. A friend introduced him to the Amy Foundation’s Hospitality Programme, and with courage and hope, he enrolled.
“I’ve always loved cooking,” Sikhangele shares. “There’s something incredibly fulfilling about learning new skills every day, especially baking.”
In just three months, he gained invaluable hands-on experience. From mastering knife skills to understanding food allergies and working as part of a team, Sikhangele’s confidence grew with every lesson. His hard work soon paid off, leading to an internship at the renowned 12 Apostles Hotel. What began as a one-month opportunity blossomed into a permanent position, setting the stage for his flourishing culinary career.
The 12 Apostles Hotel became more than just a workplace; it was a space for growth. Supported by his employers, Sikhangele pursued further studies at the South African Academy to become a professional chef. Over the years, his career took him to prestigious establishments like the Silo Hotel and Queen Victoria Hotel, where he continued to develop his craft, particularly in the art of pastry.
Today, Sikhangele is a second cook and pastry chef on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships, living a dream he once thought impossible. His role has taken him across the globe, allowing him to share his culinary creations with international audiences and expand his expertise.
“I aspire to own my own properties and start a baking business,” he says, his eyes set firmly on the future.
“The Amy Foundation has truly transformed my life, enabling me to provide for my family and pursue a career I’m passionate about.”
Sikhangele’s story is a shining example of the transformative power of education, mentorship, and opportunity. It’s also a reflection of the incredible work done by the Amy Foundation. By investing in young people, the foundation doesn’t just change lives – it creates ripples of hope and possibility that extend far beyond the individual.
His advice to others?
“Be patient, maintain a positive attitude, and work hard. Celebrate others’ successes because we all shine at different times. The journey might be long, but the rewards are worth it.”
From a young man uncertain of his next steps to a globetrotting chef with dreams still unfolding, Sikhangele is proof that with patience and hard work, the future holds boundless possibilities. Here’s to embracing the journey, no matter how long it may be.
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