As the South African culinary industry joins their international counterparts in this challenging time amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, SA Chefs President James Khoza and Worldchefs President Thomas A. Gugler call on all Chefs to reach out and support each other.
Fellow Members, Culinary Patrons and Friends,
Over the past weeks we have witnessed the continuous impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on individuals, families, businesses, societies and countries as the infection rates spiral around the world and more recently have started here in South Africa, with incredible haste and intensity.
As you may know, SA Chefs is the Country associate member of the global organisation, Worldchefs, and herewith I submit a message of warmth and reassurance from Worldchefs President Thomas Gugler.
It is in unity, fellow chefs, that we share our conviction with the world, to stand by each other, take care of each other, and support one another through these challenging times. I wish you well as you navigate the murky waters that the COVID-19 outbreak has brought about, and I urge you and your families to take every precaution to stay safe and well. SA Chefs will continue to operate, business as usual, albeit from our homes, and we will continue to assist you in any way we can.
#StrongerTogether
James Khoza
Dear Colleagues, Chefs and Friends around the world,
Many warm and heartfelt greetings to you and your family from Worldchefs.
During this time of challenge and difficulty caused by COVID-19, we want you to know that we are there with you and will continue to support you in any way possible. When the quarantine restrictions are over, it will be time once again to help those less fortunate and share our goodwill and consideration for others through a combination of passion, dedication and culinary skills.
As always, we will stand together and support each other. We will find a way to overcome the difficult times and despair caused by this pandemic. Together, let us do what we can, no matter how little or grand, to be that helping hand amidst this global crisis. Let us show compassion and consideration to our neighbours and in our local communities.
Families throughout the world will be seeking assistance and we will be there to support and offer our help because that is who we are and what we do. After all, we are a community of chefs, a global fraternity bonded by our profession in “the white jacket”.
For some, the difficulties will go beyond the health risks of the coronavirus and become significant financial and business concerns. Therefore, let us also remember to support our local restaurants, hotels, markets and business owners when possible, as they too will struggle to overcome this crisis.
In regard to the status of the Worldchefs Congress 2020 in Saint Petersburg, we will keep you posted. The final decision will be made by mid-April 2020 at the latest and it will be based on the global situation at that time.
In closing, I would like to personally thank you for everything you have done and will continue to do for Worldchefs, the chefs in your association, their families and the people in your communities. Your time and contributions are always recognized, appreciated and will be forever remembered.
May God Bless you and your family. May you always believe in the “power of the white jacket”.
With the Best Culinary Regards,
Thomas A. Gugler
President, Worldchefs
