In the heart of Mzansi, where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its people, a remarkable entrepreneur has emerged, blending gourmet vegan cuisine with a mission for sustainability.
Chef Sue Gajathar, the founder of The Vegan Chef, has not only transformed her dreams into reality but is also changing the food scene for the better as she paves the way for plant-based dining.
Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, Gajathar's journey into the culinary world is anything but ordinary.
Despite qualifying as a tax specialist with honours in taxation and beginning her career with a prominent audit company, she says her heart was always set on entrepreneurship.
“My dream was always to change the world through a sustainable food business,” she confided.
Her passion for food was ignited at an early age, instilled in her by her mother, who was constantly experimenting in the kitchen, crafting delicious vegetarian meals that left a lasting impression on her.
Eight years ago, a pivotal moment came when she adopted a vegan lifestyle. Faced with a shortage of vegan options, she took matters into her own hands, experimenting with recipes and developing a profound interest in plant-based cuisine.
Beyond her role at The Vegan Chef, Gajathar is also known for spearheading the Fourways Rustic and Gourmet market, a 100% vegan and sustainable marketplace at Design Quarters in Fourways.
She provides a platform for budding environmentally sustainable businesses to bring their products into the market. “It is important to give back and support other innovators in the field,” she noted.
As The Vegan Chef continues to capture the growing South African plant-based market, Gajathar has set her sights on expansion.
Plans are in place to scale manufacturing operations, enhance distribution networks, and penetrate uncharted vegan markets through wholesale and restaurant operations. “Our journey is just beginning, and we’re excited for what’s ahead,” she concluded.
As The Vegan Chef continues to capture the growing South African plant-based market, Gajathar has set her sights on expansion.
Plans are in place to scale manufacturing operations, enhance distribution networks, and penetrate uncharted vegan markets through wholesale and restaurant operations. “Our journey is just beginning, and we’re excited for what’s ahead,” she concluded.
