Our Team

Our family is headed by Trevor and Desiree, the ultimate example of teamwork. Affectionately known as Aunty D, Desiree is the heart of 1000 Hills Chef School. Her impossible to define role includes logistics and operations (everything from shopping for specialist supplies to visiting sick students in hospital) to networking and media (she always has a camera in hand). Her degree in Industrial Relations and work in logistics before years of raising her own two boys and liaising with several school committees (who reluctantly let her go) has perfectly prepared her for this. The other proud parent is Trevor – our MD and Brewer. He got a lot to chew on when this corporate business-man and amateur craft brewer decided to invest in a chef school (with an all-important brewery attached). Trevor brings a lifetime of part-time passions and full-time business experience to running 1000 Hills Chef School. Firm but fair and an exemplary leader, he embodies two crucial lessons for young people looking to build a career: it’s never too late to follow your dreams and no lesson is ever wasted. Trevor leads students at a host of external beer events and guides them in extra classes in business skills. Once in a while, we let him indulge in brewing some beer.

Chef Jade Van Der Spuy, South Africa’s Senior Chef of the Year in 2015, is our Principal. A graduate of 1000 Hills Chef School herself, she holds numerous culinary awards and worked in Australia and Scotland after qualifying. She joined us in 2010 and her passion for food matches her love for teaching young people the culinary arts. Chef Jade leads a team of Chef Lecturers that are skilled experts in their culinary area, and they are equally passionate about sharing their love of food and the creative art of cooking with students. Mentored by Chef Dixi in every respect, this enormously talented chef is proud to follow in her footsteps. Under her tutelage, several students have achieved national titles in culinary competitions, including First, Second AND Third at the Junior Chef of the Year competition in 2016 and First and Second in 2018 – an unprecedented record of success.

Chef Sune’ studied at IHS from 2001 to 2004 and joined Rawdons Hotel shortly after qualifying. Chef Sune’ was then recruited to join the opening team of the Suncoast Hotel and Towers. She remained with the Tsogo Sun group until 2013. She was then offered an opportunity to be part of the lecturing team at International Hotel School. In 2017 Chef Sune’ felt the call of the kitchen! She joined the team at The Cargo Hold Restaurant at uShaka Marine world as Executive Chef. During this time Chef Sune’ became a member of the prestigious Chainne des Rotiseurs and is also the Vice Chair of the South African Chefs Association KZN region, a position she still holds. Covid then hit and after a short period as a relief chef at Tsebo Food Solutions and a part time lecturer at Capsicum Culinary Studio She joined the team at 1000 Hills chef School. Chef Sune’ brings with her years of experience, creativity and a love for teaching and sharing her vast knowledge.

Introducing Megan Gemmell, a distinguished brewer and brew lecturer with a unique journey rooted in science and a passion for crafting exceptional beers. Megan holds an Honours Degree in Biochemistry and a Master’s Degree in Microbiology, reflecting her strong academic foundation. Initially working in the field of environmental microbiology and biological control in the agriculture sector, Megan redirected her career to pursue her true calling – brewing beer. Megan's brewing journey began during her studies at UKZN, where she acquired the skills that would eventually evolve into a 14-year-long brewing career. Her dedication to the craft and keen palate have earned her international acclaim, as she proudly serves as an accredited beer judge, evaluating brews on a global stage. Megan is not just a judge; she's also a prominent figure in the brewing community, owning and steering the internationally recognised Clockwork Brewhouse. Her commitment to excellence is evident in the multiple awards she has garnered at prestigious international beer competitions. As a passionate advocate for the art of brewing, Megan extends her expertise to the next generation of brewers. She serves as the beer and brewing lecturer for second-year Advanced students, imparting invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. Megan believes that brewing beer is akin to the liquid version of being a chef, offering students a unique opportunity to refine their skills and explore the nuanced world of flavour development and culinary innovation. Megan combines her academic background, extensive brewing experience, and dedication to education, leaving an indelible mark on the world of craft beer and inspiring the next generation of brewing enthusiasts.

Chef Robin is a passionate culinary educator and industry professional with extensive experience in both the kitchen and the business side of the food industry. A graduate of 1000 Hills Chef School in 2019, Robin gained international experience in the United States before returning home to further a dynamic career in the culinary world. With a strong foundation in both culinary arts and business, Robin worked as a demo chef and sales representative for a leading importer of Italian products, refining expertise in fine ingredients and global cuisine. However, education proved to be the true calling—mentoring and inspiring the next generation of chefs. As a dedicated lecturer, Chef Robin is committed to excellence, innovation, and hands-on training, equipping aspiring chefs with the skills, knowledge, and passion needed to thrive in the culinary industry.

Kelebogile Majola is the friendly face behind the voice that welcomes future chefs to 1000 Hills Chef School. A proud alumna of Pinetown Girls’ High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Commerce degree in Supply Chain Management from MANCOSA. With a warm personality and a passion for connecting people with opportunity, Kelebogile guides prospective students through every step of the admissions process, ensuring that their journey to becoming a chef starts on the right note.