How Mvuzo Toko turned his job loss into a thriving Khayelitsha bakery

News24

a day ago

In the heart of Khayelitsha, Mvuzo Toko (29), owner of Cake Moments Confectionery, has risen to become one of the most sought-after bakers in the community.
With a passion for baking and cooking that knows no bounds, Mvuzo has built a thriving business that showcases his creativity, skill, and dedication.
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He spoke with Drum about his business, the challenges he's overcome, and what the future holds for his business.
Mvuzo says that his love affair with baking began during his high school days, and he decided to nurture it.
'I've always aspired to be a pastry chef, and after working three years in a 5-star hotel, where I refined my craft, I was retrenched during Covid-19, prompting me to start a baking business from home, utilising my skills and experience, that's how I got started,' he said.
And just like any other business in its early stages, challenges are bound to be encountered, and Mvuzo has had his fair share.
'Some of the key hurdles I encountered in the early stages of my baking venture included working in a compact kitchen with limited space, limited fridge space, as the fridge was used daily for home uses. I also faced challenges in attracting clients as an unestablished business with a limited customer base.'
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He adds that a lack of resources in the township caused some strain to his business, but he persevered.
'Growing up in Khayelitsha, I faced challenges like limited access to baking equipment, suppliers, and marketing resources. I overcame them by being resourceful - using what I had, learning to adapt recipes, and promoting my cakes through social media and word-of-mouth. Those challenges taught me creativity, resilience, and how to build strong customer relationships.'
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Even with challenges, his socioeconomic background and lack of high-end equipment never demotivated him but instead taught him to be resourceful and creative.
'Seeing how people made the most out of what they had inspired me to do the same. Starting a baking business was both a way to earn an income and to bring something special to my community.'
'It's about using what you have wisely, working hard, and staying committed to your vision.'
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As his skills improved, so did his reputation, and soon he was in demand for all sorts of events, from weddings to corporate functions.
'My community played a huge role in supporting my business, from small food items like cupcakes, big cakes and mostly the churches around Khayelitsha played a major role, ordering very large cakes for functions and conferences.'
With a solid foundation in culinary arts, Mvuzo set out to make a name for himself in the competitive world of baking.
'I studied Hospitality and Catering Studies at the College of Cape Town and I did my Inservice training at Taj Cape Town where I worked in all departments of a Hotel establishment as required to qualify for a National Diploma, but I spent more time in the Pastry kitchen as that was where my passion was, I then graduated at the college of Cape Town.'
To stay abreast of the ever-changing trends of the industry, he reveals that he draws inspiration from his popular industry trend setters.
'I mostly follow popular bakers from abroad and overseas, as that's where I draw inspiration from. I subscribe to baking channels on YouTube and Instagram to stay up to date with current popular culinary trends.'
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With his business growing rapidly, Mvuzo took the bold step of opening his own bakery spot in Khayelitsha, and he plans on contributing to his local community by combating unemployment.
'I am now planning on expanding and running a pastry diner that focuses strictly on pastry and baked goodies. I don't want to expose much, I want it to be a surprise.My business will contribute to the tourism industry as I'm planning on attracting tourists who come over to Khayelitsha for some township experiences. I'll be employing some staff as well.'
With his success he believes that he's showing other entrepreneurs that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
'Your background doesn't define your future, silence the noise and pursue your dream, don't wait for the perfect time, don't wait to be financially stable, take and use what you have. Be passionate, be dedicated and keep moving,' he concluded.