Chef Mahlomola Thamae – Culinary Visionary, Global Judge & Educator | Owner of TM Innovations From London to Soweto | Master Chef, Judge & Hospitality Educator Gourmet Innovator & Worldchefs Continental Judge
My extensive experience has given me the ability to evaluate the technical intricacies that separate a good dish from a culinary masterpiece. But above all, my passion for gastronomy fuels my mission—to promote culinary excellence on a global scale.”
The Culinary Architect of Excellence
In the vibrant mosaic of South Africa’s culinary heritage, Chef Mahlomola Thamae stands as a pillar of excellence, vision, and transformative leadership. As the Chef Patron and Founder of TM Innovations, a high-end bespoke catering company headquartered in Soweto, Johannesburg, he has spent nearly three decades shaping the gastronomic landscape of South Africa and beyond. His journey is marked not only by technical brilliance but by an unwavering commitment to authenticity, education, and community upliftment.
From the bustling fine-dining kitchens of London’s top hotels to the globally celebrated Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Chef Thamae has consistently elevated every culinary stage he has stepped onto. His international training at Westminster Kingsway College and academic degree in Culinary Arts (Science of Cooking) from South Bank University gave him the theoretical foundation to master global cuisines while integrating his African roots into refined, modern presentations.
What sets Chef Thamae apart is his multifaceted contribution to the culinary world—not just as a chef, but as a certified judge, educator, consultant, and community leader. His work resonates across prestigious culinary competitions, South African embassies in Europe, and the grassroots kitchens of township schools. A registered assessor and itinerant lecturer for over a decade, he empowers the next generation with skill, integrity, and heart.
Through TM Innovations, he has created a platform that blends luxury with local relevance, offering catering services that speak to both opulence and cultural authenticity. Whether preparing meals for diplomatic dignitaries or training young chefs from underserved communities, Chef Mahlomola Thamae’s culinary philosophy remains constant—excellence with soul. He is not merely a chef; he is a culinary architect building bridges between tradition and innovation, between local heritage and global standards.
Early Life and Foundation: A Flame Ignited
Born and raised in South Africa, Mahlomola Thamae’s relationship with food was cultivated through early exposure to traditional family cooking. The textures, aromas, and ceremonial significance of South African dishes stirred in him not just curiosity but reverence. His natural inclination towards the kitchen was soon recognized, leading him to pursue formal education in the culinary arts.
Driven by a hunger for international exposure and refined technique, Chef Thamae journeyed to the United Kingdom, where he would lay the foundation for an extraordinary career that would eventually come full circle—back to the heart of South African hospitality.
Academic Journey: London’s Culinary Schools of Excellence
🎓 Westminster Kingsway College, London
At Westminster Kingsway College, one of the UK’s premier culinary institutions, Chef Thamae underwent a rigorous program that emphasized classic European techniques, hygiene protocols, and kitchen management. The training introduced him to a multicultural culinary scene, fine-dining standards, and modern gastronomy trends.
🎓 South Bank University, London
He further solidified his expertise by earning a degree in Culinary Arts (Science of Cooking) at South Bank University. This academic endeavor deepened his understanding of the chemical and nutritional foundations of food. It also equipped him with the scientific knowledge necessary for menu development, recipe engineering, and culinary innovation.
Global Culinary Experience: A World-Class Career
🌊 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines – The Floating Culinary Arena
Chef Thamae’s international culinary journey took him to the high seas aboard the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, where he operated in a dynamic, high-pressure kitchen serving thousands daily. This experience not only honed his technical skills but also reinforced his ability to manage logistics, multicultural teams, and high-volume food production with precision.
🏨 Top Hotels and Restaurants in London
London’s vibrant culinary scene gave Chef Thamae exposure to global cuisines and world-class operations. Working in elite restaurants and hotels, he absorbed the nuances of fine dining, European plating aesthetics, and the rhythm of high-end kitchens. This phase greatly influenced his later innovations in South African gastronomy.
Return to South Africa: Local Leadership and Culinary Impact
🏨 Senior Sous Chef – Mount Grace Hotel and Spa
Upon returning to South Africa, Chef Thamae secured a pivotal role at the Mount Grace Hotel and Spa, one of the country’s most renowned luxury establishments. As Senior Sous Chef, he played a central role in maintaining culinary excellence, orchestrating banquets, and leading high-profile kitchen teams.
🏢 Executive Unit Head – Tsebo Outsourcing
Transitioning from hotel kitchens to corporate catering, Chef Thamae joined Tsebo Outsourcing where he headed an executive culinary unit. His focus shifted toward streamlining operations, improving service delivery for large institutions, and implementing sustainable food systems in corporate environments.
🍽️ TM Innovations – Bespoke Catering with Heart
In 2015, Chef Mahlomola Thamae founded TM Innovations, a catering brand that reflects his global exposure and local roots. Based in Soweto, Johannesburg, TM Innovations has grown into a premier catering service provider known for:
- Custom-designed menus
- Fine dining experiences
- Catering for corporate, private, and diplomatic events
- Staff training and hospitality development
- Canteen and vending services
TM Innovations operates with a clear mission: to bring luxury to your tastebuds while honoring South African heritage and global culinary standards.
Academic and Teaching Contributions: The Itinerant Educator
🧑🏫 Culinary Lecturer – 10+ Years
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Thamae has dedicated over a decade to culinary education. As an itinerant lecturer, he travels across South Africa and internationally to conduct workshops, skills training, and mentorship programs. His students range from aspiring chefs in underprivileged areas to seasoned professionals seeking industry certification.
🧪 Registered Assessor
As a certified assessor, he is qualified to evaluate chefs for national qualifications and competitions. His ability to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical skill has made him a respected figure in culinary academies and institutions.
Judging and Competitions: Culinary Excellence on Display
- 🏆 Competition & Judging Experience
Chef Mahlomola Thamae has served as an esteemed culinary judge at both national and international levels, bringing decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His reputation as a Continental Judge for the World Chefs Association reflects his deep understanding of global culinary standards and the ability to evaluate chefs on a multitude of complex dimensions including technical execution, creativity, and presentation.
🎖️ Competitor & Finalist
Finalist – Presidents Culinary Cup, Johannesburg (2018)
Participant – SA Chefs National Mushroom Competition (2020)
🧑⚖️ International Judging Highlights (2019–2024)
Over the years, Chef Thamae has been invited to judge at the most prestigious culinary competitions across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. His expertise is regularly sought for junior and senior levels, as well as specialized categories like plant-based cuisine.
Worldchefs Global Chef Challenge, South Africa – Judge (2019)
Worldchefs KCA Karachi 1st International Salonniere, Pakistan – Judge (2021)
Worldchefs KCA Karachi 2nd International Salonniere, Pakistan – Judge (2022)
West African Food Festival (WAFFEST), Liberia – Head Judge (2021)
West African Food Festival, Togo – Head Judge
Worldchefs Mauritius Chefs Association – Junior Chef Competition, Mauritius – Judge (2022)
African Cuisine Festival, Tanzania – Chief Judge (2022)
Expo Culinaire – Emirates Culinary Guild Chefs Competition, Sharjah, UAE – Judge (2024)
Rwanda Chefs Alliance School Competitions, Rwanda – Head Judge (2024)
🇿🇦 National Judging Experience (South Africa)
SA Chefs RCL Competition – Judge (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
SA Chefs Chef of the Year (Junior & Senior) – Judge (2024)
SA Chefs Plant-Based Chef of the Year – Judge (2024)
Unilever Future Menu Chef of the Year – Judge (2024–2025)
Chaine des Rôtisseurs Junior Chef of the Year – Judge (2024)
🌍 Other Notable International Engagements
Russian Chefs Federation – Judge for Junior, Senior, and School Competitions (2024, WACS-Endorsed)
Game of Chefs – WACS-Endorsed Competition Judge (2024)
🔑 Culinary Judging Philosophy
Chef Mahlomola’s judging is rooted in precision, respect for technique, and celebration of innovation. He upholds the core values of the World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs), ensuring that every assessment is impartial, constructive, and encouraging. His refined palate and experience enable him to discern minute differences in texture, balance, and artistic execution.
He states:
International Diplomatic Engagements
🇺🇦 Chef in Residence – South African Embassy, Ukraine (2019)
Handpicked to represent South African cuisine at the SA Embassy in Ukraine under Ambassador Andre Groenewald, Chef Thamae curated and executed exclusive state dinners.
🇩🇰 Chef in Residence – South African Embassy, Denmark (2019)
Under the patronage of Ambassador Zindzi Mandela, he prepared a culinary showcase that celebrated South African ingredients on the global diplomatic stage.
🇷🇼 Chef Promotion – Rwanda (2020)
He led culinary promotion tours that emphasized South African gastronomy, sustainable cooking, and culinary diplomacy in Rwanda, further building bridges through food.
Leadership & Affiliations
🌐 Key Positions Held
- Director (2023–2025) – South African Chefs Association (SA Chefs)
- Vice-Culinaire – Gauteng Bailliage, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs – South Africa
🤝 Memberships
- SA Chefs Association
- African Chefs Alliance
- SACHEF (South African Culinary and Hospitality Educators Forum)
His leadership roles have helped shape national policy around chef training, culinary standards, and international representation.
Community Involvement: Feeding More Than Bellies
Chef Thamae is deeply rooted in community service, often volunteering his time and resources to empower youth and unemployed culinary graduates. TM Innovations regularly partners with local organizations to:
- Host community cooking classes
- Run food donation programs
- Offer skills development workshops for underprivileged youth
His belief: “Hospitality begins at home, and no one should go hungry when chefs are around.”
Signature Philosophy: Food with Heart and Heritage
For Chef Mahlomola Thamae, food is more than sustenance—it is storytelling, healing, and unity. His signature culinary style merges classic French techniques, African traditions, and modern plating—resulting in experiences that nourish both palate and soul.
His motto:
“In this industry, we need hands and heart. What you feel in the heart comes through in the food.”
Legacy and Future Vision
With nearly 30 years under his belt, Chef Thamae stands at the pinnacle of African culinary excellence. His aspirations for the future include:
- Expanding TM Innovations into a pan-African catering brand
- Publishing a memoir and cookbook that highlights African cuisine
- Establishing a culinary scholarship fund for disadvantaged youth
- Promoting South African cuisine globally through embassies, festivals, and media
He is not just building meals; he is building a movement.
TM Innovations
Entrepreneurship: Founding TM Innovations
- Founded: 2015
- Nature: Bespoke, high-end catering and culinary services provider
- Based in: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Founder & Chef Patron: Chef Mahlomola Thamae
- Qualifications & Accolades:
- Graduate of Westminster Kingsway College & South Bank University (London)
- Member & Judge with Worldchefs, SA Chefs, African Chefs Alliance
- Chef in Residence at South African Embassies (Ukraine & Denmark)
- Over 30 years’ experience in hospitality across South Africa, London, Caribbean, and others
📦 Scope of Services
TM Innovations provides a comprehensive range of culinary and event services:
- Private Chef Services – In-home or on-site cooking
- Staffing – Kitchen & wait staff for functions
- Catering Equipment Hire – Crockery, cutlery, serving gear
- Hospitality Skills Development
- Canteen Services – Staffing and food for office/corporate cafeterias
- Event Management & Catering
- Menu Development – Tailored dish creation & testing
- Vending Machine Management
💼 Team Overview
- 6 Full-Time Staff
- 20 Part-Time Waiters
- 15 Part-Time Cooks/Chefs
- 2 Supervisors
- Collaborations with renowned chefs for quality control
📋 Proposal Summary
1. Initial Setup (20 Days – Once Off)
- Services: Menu creation, recipe development, staff training, hygiene protocols, kitchen setup, licensing, and marketing
- Fee: R50,000 (excl. VAT) – discounted from R70,000
2. Monthly Management (12-Month Service)
- Includes: Menu updates, staff development, HR support, hygiene, financial oversight, and marketing
- Fee: R20,000/month (excl. VAT) – discounted from R28,000
- Turnover Clause: 10% consultancy fee if monthly turnover > R250,000
- IP Rights: All developed content becomes client’s property post-contract
3. Event Catering (Once-Off)
- Fee: R3,000/day for extra working days (excl. VAT)
🏆 Competitions & Judging Experience
- Finalist, President’s Culinary Cup (2018)
- Judge at international events in South Africa, Liberia, Tanzania, Mauritius, and Pakistan
- Certified Judge, Assessor, Salonniere
🧾 Compliance & Standards
- Fully registered business: TM Innovations (PTY) LTD | Reg. No.: 2015 / 097618 / 07
- Health-certified and adheres to global culinary excellence standards
- Ingredients are locally sourced, organic preferred, and procured weekly
🤝 Client Profile
- Served private families, media, corporates, and state-owned enterprises
- Notable partnerships include SA Chefs Association and Worldchefs
❤️ Community Service
- Actively engages in community upliftment through culinary training & events
📍 Contact Details
Delivered by: Zoe Business Support Africa (ZBSA)
Phone: +27 82 436 6397
Email: chef@tminnovations.co.za
Address: 138899 Aleppo Pine Crescent Street, Protea Glen, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Instagram: @tm_innovations
Facebook: TM Innovations
