It is difficult to imagine two venues that could be more different. The formal, measured, air-conditioned environment of the boardroom, compared to the noisy, hot, hustle and bustle of a busy kitchen.
Nomfundo Mcoyi, the founder and CEO of Icebolethu Group, has managed to bridge the gap between these contrasting settings and is absolutely as ease in either.
While growing up, Nomfundo’s sense of community and responsibility saw her making a contribution in her Grandmother’s kitchen from an early age. She had just turned 9 and was in Grade 4 when she could produce a full meal!
Life’s journey has seen Nomfundo take the step from educator to entrepreneur, but she has never let her corporate responsibilities as the leader of a conglomerate of companies that operate in KwaZulu Natal, Gauteng and the United Kingdom, undermine her passion for cooking. As a businessperson, innovativeness and creativity come easily to Nomfundo, she has applied this creative energy to creating a variety of delicious recipes and dishes that have been enjoyed by her family, friends and colleagues.
South Africans everywhere, looking for some homegrown African Cuisine will now also get a taste of her magic through her cookbook.
Nomfundo Mcoyi, is a former educator who has become a multi-skilled entrepreneur and community builder based in KwaZulu-Natal. After founding Icebolethu Funerals 10 years ago, she grew this into the Icebolethu Group, a conglomerate comprised of 10 companies. Icebolethu Group has over 100 branches in KZN and representation in the United Kingdom. The group employs over 1000 people and its funeral division holds over 400 000 funeral policies, making it one of the leaders in its industry.
Nomfundo’s drive and determination have seen her transform the Icebolethu Group into a very prosperous business, yet despite this success; Nomfundo has maintained her Faith, her family values and her strong sense of community. Nomfundo’s faith, family and community play an important role in how she sees life and this is demonstrated in her sharing her success through the establishment of the Icebolethu Foundation, Icebolethu Group Academy as well as Rhoda Girls.
The Icebolethu Foundation assists in developing underprivileged communities through various initiatives such as building homes for families in need. Through the Rhoda Girls Initiative, Nomfundo personally mentors 50 young girls, through a holistic program that seeks to empower young African women to become leaders in society.
Nomfundo is also the chairperson of the South African Funeral Practitioners Association KZN, a shareholder at Scribante Labour Consultants and Blacksuits.
Besides being an accomplished entrepreneur, a budding author, a multi-talented strategist, Nomfundo is also a mother of three.
I sincerely hope that this Cookbook will motivate anybody who reads it, to apply the simple recipes and to participate in creating the fond memories that are so often inspired by the comradery of happy diners around the table. Creating meals for my family, friends, colleagues and even clients is one of my greatest joys. I enjoy seeing people relaxed, enjoying a delicious meal and just doing life together.
You will also find tips on turning your dreams into a reality, as this is not just a cookbook, but rather the story of my life, told through food. Cooking inspires me and the switch from boardroom to kitchen allows me to think and be creative which often results in new strategies that have guided me in my business.
It is my hope that my journey will inspire you, whether it is through cooking tasty meals for your loved ones, career pursuits or whatever it is that your heart desires, to be encouraged and reminded that everything is possible.
Remember; be sure to maintain your health by leading a balanced lifestyle
Happy reading and happy cooking.
Stay blessed
Love: Nomfundo Mcoyi
