Gershwin Gordon, the winner of the first season of the cooking show Nyama Battle, believes that the food truck market in South Africa is steadily growing. While it may not be as popular as in the US, Gordon sees potential for growth in the market.
According to Gordon, the versatility of food trucks makes them a great option for entertainment spaces and social gatherings. He noted that the Western Cape region in South Africa is more receptive to food trucks compared to Johannesburg, but he believes that the trend is catching on in other parts of the country as well.
Nyama Battle, a reality cooking show that celebrates street food, recently crowned Gordon as its champion. The show, hosted by Lebogang “The Funny Chef” Tlokana and judged by chefs Keagan Maistry and Moses Moloi, saw twelve aspiring chefs competing for the grand prize of a new Nissan Navara and a trailer for their food business.
Gordon described his experience on Nyama Battle as a challenging yet rewarding journey. He faced tough competition and had to navigate through various challenges, including communication issues, time management, and teamwork. The final round was particularly intense for Gordon, as he had to make a comeback from a two-point deficit to secure the win.
The victory on Nyama Battle has been life-changing for Gordon, who hopes to give back to the community and inspire others. He emphasized the importance of imparting skills and providing hope to individuals, regardless of their background or past experiences.
Looking ahead, Gordon is excited to launch his new venture called Fire & Dough under the Gordon’s Creations family. Despite the challenges he faced along the way, Gordon’s passion and persistence for food have paid off, and he is eager to see what the future holds.
As the food truck market continues to grow in South Africa, Gordon’s success serves as a testament to the potential opportunities in the industry. With his determination and culinary skills, Gordon is set to make a significant impact in the food truck scene and beyond.
