Jody Rahme, after seven attempts, has triumphed as South African Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year and prepares to represent South Africa at the global finals in China.
Johannesburg, South Africa (23 July 2024) – South Africans have a way of shining in everything we do. From sports to science, we excel and make our nation proud. Today, we celebrate another triumph as one of our own prepares to represent us on a global stage. Jody Rahme, a determined and passionate bartender, has finally clinched the title of South African Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year on his seventh attempt, proving that persistence and dedication truly pay off.
After six previous attempts, Rahme promised his girlfriend that 2024 would be his last go at the title.
This year, his perseverance was rewarded as he emerged victorious in the national competition held in Johannesburg. Rahme, 35, will now represent South Africa at the World Class global finals in China this September, where he will compete against the best bartenders from over 60 countries.
The competition was fierce, but Rahme’s experience and meticulous preparation gave him the edge. Over three days of challenges, he showcased his skills and creativity, ultimately claiming the top spot. Cape Town’s Liam Jukes from VUE Shortmarket came in second, also receiving the Bartenders’ Choice Award, while Devon Andreka, general manager of Obscura in Rosebank, Johannesburg, secured third place.
Reflecting on his journey, Rahme shared, “It’s been my biggest dream to take this title one day, be the best bartender in the country and go overseas to represent South Africa and meet other bartenders who’ve worked so hard for this.”
Rahme’s journey began in 2017 when he first entered the World Class competition while working at Sin + Tax in Rosebank. With just two weeks to prepare, he was thrown into the deep end, but it was an invaluable learning experience. Seven years later, his approach is methodical and structured.
“I conceptualise my drinks on a spreadsheet, ensuring I tick all the boxes for a cocktail competition. Then I get to work in the kitchen, perfecting the flavours and the presentation.”
“I love cooking, learning techniques, and understanding flavour,” Rahme said.
This meticulous preparation was evident throughout the competition, particularly in the five challenges he faced in the national finals.

From reimagining classic cocktails with Tanqueray No. TEN gin to creating a disco-themed cocktail with single malt whisky, Rahme’s creativity and skill were on full display. The mystery box challenge, where he had to incorporate basil into cocktails using Don Julio tequila, tested his ability to think on his feet. His final challenge was to create a pop-up bar depicting the future of the bar industry. Rahme’s timeless concept prioritised lower alcohol by volume drinks and responsible drinking, a cause close to his heart.
Rahme’s victory is not just his own; it’s a win for his support system, particularly his girlfriend, attorney Prianka Soni, and his mother, Kerry Gordon.
“The first thing I said to them was that it was their victory over mine because they’ve been incredible and resilient,” Rahme said.
“They pushed me in the right direction, tasted many cocktails, and stayed up with me doing things they really didn’t want to do.”
As Rahme prepares for the global finals in Shanghai, the support from the South African bartending community has been overwhelming.
“I’ve had an outpouring of messages from the industry and my community, congratulating me and offering their help. The camaraderie in bartending is incredible, and everyone just wants to see me do well for South Africa,” he said.
Bradley Jacobs, Diageo SA’s National On-Trade Key Account Manager, praised Rahme’s dedication.
“He’s always been a massive advocate of World Class for what it can do for a bartender’s career. Winning puts you on a pedestal from a publicity and media perspective, and of course, it’s such an honor to represent your country.”
As Rahme heads to Shanghai, he carries the hopes and pride of South Africa with him. His journey is a shining example of perseverance, passion, and the incredible potential that lies within each of us. We are champions, and Rahme’s upcoming performance on the global stage will undoubtedly inspire future generations of South African bartenders.
Follow Jody Rahme’s journey on Instagram via @worldclasssa and join us in cheering him on as he aims to make South Africa proud on the global stage.
