Lorna Maseko is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) by TOHO Africa for her outstanding contribution to culinary tourism, destination storytelling, and showcasing African cuisine on the global stage.
An internationally acclaimed South African chef, television personality, bestselling cookbook author, entrepreneur, and former professional ballerina, Lorna Maseko has become one of Africa’s most influential culinary ambassadors. After making history as one of South Africa’s pioneering Black professional ballerinas, she successfully transitioned into television and the culinary world, where she has built a globally respected brand dedicated to celebrating African food and culture.
Through acclaimed television programmes including Top Chef South Africa and The Hostess with Lorna Maseko, as well as her award-winning cookbook Celebrate with Lorna Maseko, she has introduced millions of viewers to the richness, diversity, and sophistication of African cuisine. Her work has consistently demonstrated that food is one of Africa’s greatest cultural assets and one of its strongest tourism attractions.
Lorna has proudly represented South Africa on some of the world’s most prestigious culinary platforms, including the World Restaurant Awards in Paris, the EAT Stockholm Food Forum, and international food festivals such as Taste of London and Taste of Dubai. These appearances have positioned African gastronomy before global audiences while promoting South Africa as a destination renowned for its vibrant culinary heritage.
Her influence extends far beyond the kitchen. Through digital storytelling, international speaking engagements, media appearances, brand collaborations, and culinary experiences, Lorna continues to inspire travelers to discover Africa through its flavours, traditions, local ingredients, and hospitality. She has become a passionate advocate for celebrating African cuisine with authenticity while encouraging greater appreciation for the stories behind every meal.
Lorna’s commitment to excellence has earned international recognition, including multiple Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, reinforcing her reputation as one of Africa’s leading culinary voices. Whether through television, publishing, live experiences, or global collaborations, she continues to elevate African cuisine as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy and tourism promotion.
Today, Lorna Maseko stands among Africa’s foremost culinary ambassadors, proving that food has the power to preserve heritage, attract visitors, strengthen hospitality, and tell Africa’s story to the world.
Why She Was Recognized
Lorna Maseko was selected because she has become one of Africa’s most influential culinary ambassadors, using food to promote culture, tourism, and hospitality on the global stage. Through her television programmes, award-winning cookbook, international culinary appearances, and unwavering commitment to celebrating African cuisine, she has helped position gastronomy as one of Africa’s strongest tourism assets while inspiring the world to experience the continent through its rich culinary heritage.
