mbulelo smpofu
Taboka Tshuma, Sunday Life Reporter
IN a world where baking has become the new cool, 25-year-old Sinokuhle Msimanga is rising to the occasion like a perfectly baked soufflé.
With a love for baking that began in her childhood kitchen, Sinokuhle has transformed her beloved hobby into a thriving business.
While her parents thought she was just having fun, a dash of unemployment reality helped her realise she could whip up a career from her passion.
After graduating from Silobi High School in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland South Province like many of her peers, Sinokuhle faced the tough job market with a hopeful heart.
But instead of letting the challenge crumble her dreams, she embraced her sweet tooth and decided to take the plunge into the baking business, with the support of her family cheering her on every step of the way.
In an interview with Sunday Life, Sinokuhle explained how she would watch her mother in the kitchen, as a child and get fascinated by the way she could transform simple ingredients into delicious treats.
“I remember how I used to wonder how my mum would transform simple ingredients into delicious food. I have always loved working in the kitchen, back in the day things like cakes were a luxury, they were not eaten daily. Besides this, I just developed a love for cakes and was eager to learn how to bake,” she said.
Sinokuhle finally took the big step in 2021, when she was taught to bake by her friend then later went to Diamond Cookies to learn more about baking and this was where she got her first baking qualification.
Despite encountering various challenges, such as electricity shortages in high-density suburbs and fierce competition, Sinokuhle stated that she has consistently found ways to stay resilient and keep her spirits high.
She remembered a particularly challenging morning when she woke up to discover that her cakes had melted due to excessive heat caused by a power outage, forcing her to remake them to satisfy her clients’ needs.
“The competition is very tough, there are so many talented bakers out there, and it can be overwhelming at times. But I’m determined to stand out from the crowd and make a name for myself in the industry, I believe my craft is special and different from the rest, and no matter what I will continue to thrive,” said Sinokuhle.
To keep her business thriving, she explains how she strives to stay ahead of the competition by continually seeking out new recipes and techniques to enhance her skills.
While she acknowledges that learning new skills can be difficult, she is enthusiastic about embracing the challenge.
“At first, it can be tough to learn new recipes, but as time goes on, it becomes easier. I love experimenting with new flavours and ingredients, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my craft, the comments I get from my clients after buying my cakes keep me motivated that I can do better.
“I remember how nervous and excited I was when I first received a big order from a local company that was hosting their anniversary celebrations. It was a dream come true for someone like me who has never been employed. Being able to pay school fees for my daughter and afford other expenses just gives me the strength to work harder every day,” she said.
Sinokuhle markets her business through social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, showcasing her creations and also to connect with potential customers.
“Social media has been a game-changer for my business, it has allowed me to reach a wider audience and showcase my work in a way that’s both visually appealing and engaging.
“My dream is to become one of the best in the cake-making industry, I want to inspire others on how they can transform their passions into thriving careers. I am excited to see where this journey takes me, and I’m looking forward to continue sharing my love of baking with others,” she said.
