Lorna Maseko is a name that resonates across South Africa and beyond — a chef, media personality, entrepreneur, and former ballerina whose journey exemplifies resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

From Ballet to the Culinary World

Born and raised in Alexandra, Johannesburg, Lorna’s first love was ballet. She began training at the age of nine and would go on to become one of South Africa’s first black ballerinas to perform principal roles. But Lorna’s ambitions extended beyond the dance floor. She studied communications at the University of South Africa while exploring her growing passion for the culinary arts.

A Multifaceted Career

Lorna’s talent and charisma soon found a home in television. She hosted shows like Top Billing, The Weekender, and Afro Showbiz News, before stepping into the culinary spotlight through Celebrity MasterChef South Africa, where she impressed judges and viewers alike, finishing among the top six.

Her success on the screen led to hosting roles on Top Chef SA and her own show, The Hostess with Lorna Maseko. She also shares her cooking skills and personality with audiences via her YouTube channel, Lorna With A Pinch Of Salt.

Culinary Influence and Achievements

In 2019, Lorna published her debut cookbook, Celebrate with Lorna Maseko, which won two Gourmand World Cookbook Awards: Best Celebrity Chef Cookbook and Best International Cookbook. Her culinary expertise has taken her to stages around the world, including Europe and the TEDx platform, and she recently made her debut on the Food Network’s Chopped.

Her cooking is deeply rooted in South African flavors and pan-African culinary traditions, allowing her to celebrate her heritage while creating dishes that are accessible and inspiring.

Empowering Through Food

Lorna’s latest venture, Lorna’s Pantry, emphasizes affordable, accessible meals made from pantry staples — a testament to her mission of making great cooking possible for everyone. In 2025, she partnered with South African Airways to design a business-class menu that showcases the richness of African cuisine.

Through her work, Lorna not only elevates South African flavors globally but also inspires women and young creators to pursue their dreams, regardless of background or circumstance.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Advocacy

Beyond television, Lorna runs her catering business, “Celebrate,” offering bespoke events that highlight her culinary creativity. She is also a vocal advocate for sustainable food practices and supports initiatives like the Chefs’ Manifesto, which addresses global food security.

Despite her international acclaim, Lorna continues to champion her brand at home, highlighting the need for local support for South African entrepreneurs.

Why She’s Woman of the Week

Lorna Maseko’s story is one of reinvention and resilience. From ballerina to celebrated chef and media personality, she demonstrates that it is possible to pivot, succeed, and inspire simultaneously. Her dedication to celebrating African cuisine and making cooking accessible positions her as a cultural ambassador, while her personal journey offers inspiration and representation for young women across the globe.

Lorna Maseko is more than a chef — she is a storyteller, an innovator, and a cultural trailblazer whose influence continues to grow, one plate at a time.