After being in the food industry for many years, Korola Makhuvele decided to focus her attention on her heart’s desire – baking.
Her experience as a businesswoman also proved valuable when she ventured into baking, enabling her to blend her passion with entrepreneurship.
And she has also used the opportunity to impart her skills to others willing to learn.
Makhuvele, who is from Giyani in Limpopo, is the owner of Fire Bakes, which she launched in 2018.
She told Vutivi News that her cakes were popular, largely because of her realistic designs.
They were of African dishes, fruit and vegetables, animals and popular brands. She also made landscapes and well-known landmarks.
Makhuvele said her products included vanilla, chocolate, sponge and fruit cakes.
“I’ve always been in the food sector so I thought I should venture into this passion of mine. I used to sell plates, African cuisine and the like, but I have been baking since I was very young,” she said.
“I make realistic cakes which are inspired by various things like brands, food and anything my customers ask of me. I really enjoy the level of creativity that I explore when I bake.”
Makhuvele told Vutivi News that she also offered classes to teach others about the kinds of cakes she baked.
“I started these classes because there was a high demand from my own customers to teach them my baking skills. I was touched by how people were interested in how I bake, and it became an added honour for me to start sharing my knowledge with them,” she said.
“The classes range from beginners’ classes, for those who have no knowledge of baking. I also have sculpting classes where I teach people to produce the kind of sculpted cakes that I produce.”
Makhuvele said teaching gave her an immense sense of fulfillment.
“It feels great when someone grasps my teaching because it shows that I am not the only one who invests time and passion into it,” she said.
“So, when someone gets to understand the essence behind the passion, it is a feeling that brings great contentment.”
Makhuvele said that thanks to her experience in the food industry, she had not encountered many challenges.
“I am armed with years of experience which provide me with the foundation to be able to prevent any challenges before they arise. It is easier for me to manoeuvre through the various challenges that might arise,” she said.
Makhuvele also said that being a woman business owner pushed her to her limits.
“I relish any opportunity I create, knowing that I am inspiring other young women out there to broaden their horizons,” she said.
She was awarded the Sasko Top Baker Competition in 2020, which she described as one of her greatest achievements as a baker.
