For the first time, three Cooktastic Chefs went international — from Cape Town to beautiful Austria in Europe. As fully employed seasonal workers, for 3-6 months, at two great Austrian Hospitality outlets. With great feedback from all sides.
Lufefe Kwayinto & Michee Kabeya joined the Gault Millau awarded Restaurant Langwallner at Irrsee, worked in Hot Kitchen and even Service!
Priscilla Mazibuko followed her passion for pastry at recognised Event-Hotel Scalaria at Wolfgangsee.
All three have stepped far outside their comfort zones — and came back richer in skills, experience and confidence. Michee even extended until January 2026. The feedback from their employers makes us proud: “They have a solid base, are motivated, hardworking and kind — our guests loved them.” – Barbara Langwallner. And Marcus Seylehner, HR -People & Culture ar Scalaria: “Priscilla was a clear enrichment for the whole team from the beginning … “.
The big effort, to get the VISA and working permit stuff done, was worth it. It´s a win-win-win model, since the Austrian hospitality has a shortage in skilled staff, since cultural and professional Youth Exchange is a constructive force in our current turbulent world. Of course, the 3 got to know some of Austria´s world famous sights: Salzburg, Vienna, beautiful lakes at Salzkammergut. Priscilla even got a guided tour at the Austrian President Van der Bellen´s imperial office. A follow up to his visit at Cooktastic in July 2025. And they were successful as fundraisers for Cooktastic. Providing the Catering for a Padel-Tennis Tournament at Freilassing/Germany brought € 1.500.
The best part? This pilot project is just the beginning. Cooktastic’s International Exchange Program will continue and expand in 2026!
Read more: https://www.krone.at/3951673
