MasterChef SA Judge | Recipe Developer
Content Director | Editor | Speaker
Cookbook Author | TV Presenter
Justine Drake’s journey isn’t just about food—it’s about passion, perseverance, and a deep love for bringing people together through culinary experiences. A celebrated chef, media powerhouse, and MasterChef South Africa judge, Justine has spent over three decades shaping the way South Africans cook, eat, and connect. But her story starts long before the bright lights of television and glossy magazine covers—it begins with a little girl, a wooden spoon, and an insatiable hunger for flavor. Born with a natural affinity for the kitchen, Justine’s love for food was nurtured from an early age. Inspired by her father’s unwavering passion for fine cuisine, she grew up exploring flavors, textures, and techniques with an adventurous spirit. It wasn’t long before she realized that food wasn’t just about nourishment—it was an expression of love, creativity, and community. Her formal education at St Cyprian’s School laid the foundation for her sharp intellect and relentless drive, but it was her first job at Fair Lady magazine in 1988 that truly ignited her career. There, she fought for and earned her first column, “Busy Cook,” a relatable and down-to-earth series that resonated with readers and soon evolved into her debut cookbook, The Busy Cook’s Cookbook. This was just the beginning of what would become a legendary career in food media. Over the years, Justine wore many hats—food editor for leading publications like Men’s Health, Shape, and Discovery Vitality, as well as editor of Eat In Food Directory, where she launched the prestigious Eat In Small Producer Awards. Her talent for crafting engaging culinary content reached new heights when she became the editor of Fresh Living, Pick ‘n Pay’s award-winning magazine. Her exceptional work earned her the coveted Pica Editor of the Year award, as well as Best Customer Magazine honors.
Beyond print, Justine seamlessly transitioned into television, bringing her charismatic energy to the screen. She co-produced and presented Just in Africa, a BBC television series that explored the continent’s rich culinary heritage.
She also hosted the Discovery Health show Discovery Vitality Healthyfood™ Healthy You, which complemented her fifth cookbook, Simply Good Food. Not one to shy away from innovation, she played a pivotal role in directing South Africa’s prestigious Taste Festivals, bringing world-class food experiences to Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and Gqeberha.
Then came one of the biggest milestones of her career—being named a judge on MasterChef South Africa. For Justine, this was more than just a role; it was an opportunity to mentor, inspire, and celebrate the next generation of culinary talent. Though she was no stranger to the camera, the sheer scale of the show—eight cameras, 150 crew members, and countless aspiring chefs—was a thrilling challenge. She embraced every moment, laughing, crying, and immersing herself in the magic of the competition.
But Justine’s impact extends beyond the pages of magazines and television screens. She is a dynamic MC and speaker, captivating audiences with her infectious humor and insightful cooking demonstrations. Whether curating bespoke menus, leading team-building culinary experiences, or sharing her knowledge on stage, she effortlessly blends expertise with entertainment, making every event an unforgettable experience.
Through it all, Justine remains true to herself. She has built a career on authenticity, passion, and an unrelenting pursuit of culinary excellence. She isn’t just a chef—she’s a storyteller, a mentor, and a trailblazer who has redefined food media in South Africa. And as she continues to push boundaries, one thing is certain: Justine Drake isn’t just shaping the way people cook—she’s shaping the way they experience food, one delicious bite at a time.
