Rethabile Tlali

As an aspiring chef, I am deeply passionate about the art of food and the power it has to bring people together. My goal in this internship is to expand my culinary knowledge, refine my technical skills, and gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment. I believe I am the perfect candidate because I am hardworking, disciplined, and eager to learn from experienced chefs.

I approach every task — from preparation to plating — with focus, creativity, and care. My ability to work well under pressure and my commitment to maintaining high standards make me an asset to any kitchen team. What drives me most is the joy of creating dishes that tell a story and leave a lasting impression.

I am passionate about experimenting with flavors, mastering different cuisines, and using fresh, quality ingredients to produce memorable meals. Cooking is more than just a career choice for me — it's a calling. This internship will give me the opportunity to grow, contribute, and showcase my dedication to the culinary arts while learning the importance of teamwork, consistency, and innovation in the hospitality industry.

Intern at Bakehouse (2025-03-21 – 2025-11-11)

Internship in a professional bakery environment with focus on bread and pastry production, food safety, and kitchen operations.

• Follow standardised recipes to ensure food goes out consistently.
• Prepared and baked a variety of breads and pastries according to standard recipes and quality guidelines.
• Managed mise en place, including scaling, mixing, proofing, and shaping dough.
• Ensured strict adherence to hygiene, food safety, and HACCP standards always.
• Monitored oven temperatures and baking times to maintain consistency and product quality.
• Maintained a clean, organised workstation and assisted with stock rotation (FIFO) and daily production planning.

Diploma in Patisserie – International Hotel School (2025-03-03 – 2026-04-30)

Diploma in Professional Cookery – International Hotel School (2024-03-04 – 2025-05-07)