Our Story & Purpose
Together We Serve. Together We Grow. Together We Thrive.
My name is Bongiwe Mzana, and I am the Founder and Managing Director of Isithebe seMbokodo Catering Club, as well as a Professional Chef and Trainer at Bth Events and Culinary Academy. My journey in the catering industry has been built on passion, perseverance, and a deep desire to serve people with dignity, excellence, and love. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges families face when preparing for funerals and life's most important events. The financial burden, the emotional stress, and the lack of support can be overwhelming. I longed to receive the same support, guidance, and opportunities that I now strive to give to other women. But I learned that sometimes, if you want to see change, you must be the change. So I decided to start the culture myself. I created Isithebe seMbokodo Catering Club as a movement of women supporting women, families supporting families, and communities uplifting one another. My vision is to build a legacy of service, empowerment, and excellence that will reach every home, every community, and every member who needs us. With love and purpose, Bongiwe Mzana Founder & Managing Director
This name comes from my history, my pain, and my passion. There was a time when I struggled to find support. I wished for a space where women like me could stand together, be uplifted, and grow. Because I couldn't find that space, I built it.
Isithebe seMbokodo is that space. A place where women are empowered, families are supported, and communities are strengthened through compassion, service, and excellence.
"Isithebe" means Foundation or Support.
"seMbokodo" refers to Women of Strength.
Together, Isithebe seMbokodo means "The Foundation of Strong Women."
Our Core Values
We Serve With Excellence
Delivering professional catering services with pride and passion.
We Empower Women
Creating opportunities, skills, and spaces for women to thrive.
We Build Communities
Working together to uplift and support each other.
We Act With Integrity
Honest, transparent, and accountable in everything we do.
We Leave a Lasting Legacy
Building a future where members support one another for generations.
We are committed to providing affordable professional catering services for families and communities, delivered with dignity, compassion, and excellence.
- Providing affordable professional catering services for families and communities.
- Delivering exceptional service with dignity, compassion, and excellence.
- Supporting members during funerals, weddings, celebrations, and community events.
- Empowering women and creating sustainable employment opportunities.
- Developing future hospitality professionals through training and mentorship.
- Building stronger communities through partnership, service, and Ubuntu.
Meet Our Founder
The passion behind Isithebe seMbokodo Catering Club
With over 15 years in the catering industry, Bongiwe brings expertise and passion to every event. She is also a Professional Chef and Trainer at Bth Events and Culinary Academy. Her vision of creating a supportive membership community has transformed the way families experience catering services.