Stephanie is one of the newer additions to the team at Vuyani Safari Lodge and has recently completed her studies at Prue Leith Chefs Academy in Nelspruit. Most of the students that studied with her pursued a more “city like” environment, but Stephanie wanted to move to the outdoors. She has an infectious laugh, crazy sense of humour and a very strong personality. The first day that she started working at the lodge it was as if she was meant to be here. I sat with her this morning to ask her a couple of questions about herself:
What are your Full Names?
Stephanie Gerke
When and where were you born?
Stephanie was born on the 11th of February 1992 in Pretoria, Gauteng, Mother Ruth Faurie is a nurse and Father Nico Gerke is a General Manager at a company called That Drum. She has one older brother, Justin Gerke and he works in the automotive industry. Stephanie is very much a family oriented person and spends most of her free time at home. Her family also lives in Nelspruit – so it is only about 2 hours drive from the lodge.
Where did you go to school?
I matriculated from Bergvlam High in Nelspruit. This is where I think I realized my passion for food. We had Cooking Classes from my first year in High School and I absolutely loved it! I couldn’t wait for the bell to ring and cooking class to start. I knew then and there I had to pursue this dream.
When did you start working in the lodge industry?
My first placement was just after I finished my theoretical part of my training at a very busy, upmarket restaurant in Nelspruit. I started there on the 17th of December 2012 and started in the cold kitchen. I learnt a great deal here but I knew there was more out there. I heard through mutual friends that Vuyani Safari Lodge was looking for a chef and I immediately applied. Well, the rest is history J
Why did you choose to work in the lodge industry?
When I came for my interview at Vuyani Safari Lodge and drove the short road from the gate to the lodge – I just knew! This was going to be my new home. I met the staff and some of the guests that were in house and just felt like this was my calling.
What do you love most about working in the bush and why?
Also that first drive I took the lodge – the scenery, tranquillity and sheer beauty of it all was breathtaking. My first sunrise and sunset, my first pride of Lions – there are a million reasons why I love working in the bush, not only do I work here, but I also live here!
Are you married (when did you marry and where did you meet) do you have children?
I am not married (*Laughs loudly) and I don’t have children.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Family! I love my spending time with my family. I also play a mean round of Golf, I would rather not display my handicap publically – in case some of my colleagues get jealous. 
What is your favourite animal?
Lion – I have always loved that they are called: The king of the Jungle.
If you could do anything in the world what would it be?
That is a tough question – but I think if I didn’t pursue my dream as a Chef I would have followed in my Mom’s footsteps and studied in the Medical Field as a General Practitioner.
Stephanie is a vibrant young woman. She has so much energy and a lust for life! She loves trying out new ideas. She brings a certain something to the lodge and on her week off one can certainly tell that her presence is absent. Laughter can be heard streaming out of the Kitchen from the moment we arrive in the morning and make our first cup of coffee until we close up for the evening. Stephanie has brought a new sense of fun to the lodge and I am sure when you visit the lodge you will certainly agree.
*Justine Ferreira