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Chef Coovashan "Coo" Pillay
Chef Coovashan “Coo” Pillay is a proudly South African culinary leader whose journey began on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, where growing up in a farming family shaped his deep respect for sustainability, seasonality and the land. After training at the International Hotel School, he built a distinguished career spanning more than a decade with leading hospitality brands including Signature Life Hotels, Intercontinental Hotel Group and Marriott International.
Currently the Head of Food and Beverage at Hotel Sky Sandton, Coo oversees multiple F&B outlets, kitchens and event operations. A passionate mentor and industry advocate, he has trained and developed young chefs across the country and was nationally recognised by the Minister of Tourism for his contribution to youth chef development.
In October 2024, he was elected the 9th President of the South African Chefs Association, representing over 13,000 members and leading South Africa’s culinary voice on the global stage. A visionary leader and steward of the country’s culinary heritage, Chef Coo continues to champion excellence, sustainability and inclusive growth within the hospitality industry.
Sessions
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Power Hit: The real cost of food waste – and what kitchens can do about it10-Mar-2026Industry Hub
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