Mautse, South Africa – July 1, 2024
In a small garage-turned-restaurant in Mautse, a township born out of apartheid-era policies, Makatleho (Anna) Maseko has carved out a remarkable culinary haven with Kasi Pizza. Since its opening at the end of 2022, the eatery has become a local sensation, selling out its initial batch of 80 pizzas on the very first day.
Kasi Pizza, nestled under a steel awning beside Maseko’s home, offers a diverse menu featuring six types of pizzas, including options like chicken, vegetable, and mince, alongside traditional African fare such as skopo (sheep’s head) and pap (maize meal). Diners gather outside, enjoying the unique blend of flavors crafted with love and skill.
Maseko’s journey to culinary success began humbly, washing dishes and waitressing at local eateries, until her talent was noticed by a head chef who recognized her potential. “He told me, ‘You do not belong where you are,’” Maseko recalled. “‘Just follow your heart.’ Then I went to the kitchen and never looked back.”
Her expertise grew as she advanced to head chef and manager at Benjamin’s Restaurant in Rosendal, supplemented by training in baking and cake decoration. In 2022, fueled by her passion for cooking and community, she founded Kasi Pizza, which also operates as Anna’s Bakery.
Today, Kasi Pizza employs Maseko’s husband, Samuel, and several local women, providing crucial employment in an area plagued by high youth unemployment. “We grew up where there are no jobs. You don’t work, you don’t eat,” Samuel emphasized, reflecting on their mission to create opportunities, especially for the youth.
Lerato Maseko, a beneficiary of Anna Maseko’s mentorship, expressed her gratitude, sharing how working at Kasi Pizza inspired her own entrepreneurial aspirations. “She’s the one who taught me and took me in, each and every step,” Lerato remarked, highlighting Maseko’s commitment to empowering young women through practical skills and mentorship.
Looking ahead, Maseko plans to expand Kasi Pizza’s reach by offering allergy-friendly options in supermarkets and enhancing seating capacity with a new container restaurant near the community stadium. Her vision includes promoting local talent through baking classes and supporting youth during the transition from high school to university.
“This is the best thing I’ve ever done in my life,” Maseko reflected with pride, as the aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air, symbolizing not just a business venture but a community-driven success story.