Sol Kerzner: The Maverick Who Revolutionised Hotel keeping By Stephen Hickmore
30 April 2025
Meet Kuno Tschumi: Principal, Food Service, Wines Management at The Swiss Hotel School SA
29 May 2025
I'm Melani Müller - a Culinary Arts Lecturer and the Practical Training Coordinator at The Swiss Hotel School. I completed my studies at Prue Leith Culinary Institute, where I graduated at the top of my class. I completed my QCTO Trade Test, as well as my City & Guilds level 1 and 2 certifications.
After graduation, I studied an Advanced Certificate of Kitchen Management at SHS and graduated in September of last year. At SHS, I manage student industry placements, to ensure that they are as well prepared as possible for the industry we all love.
-
What inspired you to join the hospitality/culinary education industry, and how did your journey lead you to SHS?
I have always loved being in and around the kitchen, and love being a Chef. My passion for continuous learning led me to the Swiss Hotel School, where I was given the opportunity to hone my skills and contribute to teaching the next generation of Chefs.
-
What do you love most about working with students at SHS?
That there's never a dull moment.
-
In your opinion, what sets SHS apart from other hospitality or culinary institutions?
At the Swiss Hotel School, you're not just a number on a page, but an individual, apart of a larger community. We know your name, we know you and we want the best for each and every one of our students.
The Swiss Hotel School is also unique in the vast opportunities it provides students, both locally and internationally.
-
Can you share a proud moment you've had with a student or class recently?
Seeing students' confidence improve over time.
5. What is your favourite dish (or hospitality skill) to teach and why?
All things Pastry!
-
If you could give one piece of advice to a parent helping their child choose a career path, what would it be?
Encourage them to follow their genuine passion, not just a paycheck. If your child lights up when they're in the kitchen, support that spark. Skills can be taught; passion cannot. A fulfilling career is one where they wake up excited to work, and in culinary arts, that joy often starts at home—with your encouragement.
-
What is your hidden talent or fun fact that students might not know about you?
I have 2 sausage dogs: Toto and Koda.
-
How do you see the hospitality industry evolving, and how does SHS prepare students for that future?
At SHS, we prepare students to lead in the ever-changing landscape by combining traditional hospitality values—like service excellence and attention to detail—with forward-thinking education. Students learn not just how to manage a hotel or restaurant, but how to adapt, think critically, and lead with empathy in a global, fast-paced industry.
-
What's the most rewarding part of your day at SHS?
Seeing the smile on a student's face.