Congrats Deena!

Life is set to change drastically for Durban IT specialist Deena Naidoo, who was announced as South Africa’s first Masterchef in a high-pressure final with Sue-Ann on Tuesday night.

Deena is one of the older contestants at 45, and kept viewers entertained throughout the competition with his warmth and technical knowledge.

The Masterchef website describes him as “an easygoing guy who can seemingly cook just about anything. He has a great knowledge of the technical side of cooking and can remember making his first meal when he was just 7 years old! His late mother encouraged him to cook and follow his love for food and he is now a husband and father with personal tastes that include fusion cooking and curries.”

As SA’s first masterchef, Deena will receive R250 000 in cash from Robertsons, a Hyundai Elantra 1.6 GLS, valued at over R190 000, an all expenses paid culinary experience in Italy courtesy of official food sponsor, Woolworths, a customised sommelier course from Nederburg wines, one-on-one masterclasses with Nederburg’s award-winning cellarmaster, Razvan Macici; and a year’s supply of Nederburg Winemaster’s Reserve Wines AND a restaurant at a Southern Sun venue! This unprecedented prize package is worth a whopping R8million.

Well done Deena! We look forward to watching your success grow.