A specially crafted mocktail inspired by arts and culture icon Marlene le Roux became the toast of the evening as Cape Town’s tourism, hospitality, business and creative sectors gathered for the soft launch of the Jetsetting with Janet Immersive Culinary Experience at the International Hotel School in Salt River.

The launch marked the beginning of a strategic partnership between Jetsetting with Janet and the International Hotel School, bringing together culinary tourism, experiential learning and cultural exchange through an interactive dining experience.

Hosted by travel and lifestyle curator Janet Pillai, the event brought together tourism, hospitality, business and creative industry leaders for an interactive dining experience where guests helped prepare their own meals.

Mocktail Steals the Spotlight

The Marlene, is a signature non-alcoholic cocktail that was created in honour of Le Roux and featured rooibos and pomegranate, ingredients carefully selected for their flavour, wellness benefits and personal significance.

Under the guidance of International Hotel School students and staff, guests prepared elements of their supper, creating opportunities for conversation, and connection around food.

Receiving her signature mocktail, Le Roux reflected on the significance of the gesture.

“As a polio survivor, there have been many moments in my life when I have had to fight to be seen beyond my disability,” she said.

Le Roux said being honoured with a signature mocktail was both “unexpected and deeply meaningful”.

“What means even more to me is the thoughtfulness behind the gesture. The ingredients selected for The Marlene are not only delicious but considerate of my health and wellbeing.

“Rooibos and pomegranate are both wonderful choices, and I feel incredibly honoured that something so personal was created in celebration of my journey.”

Le Roux said the tribute was a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising and celebrating people’s contributions.

For Pillai, honouring Le Roux was a natural choice.

“Marlene is a woman who has consistently transformed challenges into opportunities. Her resilience, leadership and commitment to uplifting others have made a profound impact on our country.

“Honouring her was not only a celebration of her achievements, but a reminder that courage, authenticity and determination can change lives.”

Immersive Dining Experience

The evening also featured culinary demonstrations, networking opportunities, a wine presentation by Pieter Badenhorst and discussions on tourism, culture, heritage and collaboration.

Pillai said the immersive culinary concept was designed to go beyond food.

“When people cook together, they naturally connect. They share stories, exchange ideas and build relationships. There is something incredibly powerful about creating a meal alongside someone you’ve just met.”

For the International Hotel School, the partnership provides students with valuable real-world industry exposure while strengthening the link between education and hospitality.

Lynn Naidoo, Managing Executive of the International Hotel School, said: “Our students benefited enormously from being part of this initiative.

“They had the opportunity to engage directly with professionals from across tourism, hospitality, business and the arts while applying their skills in a real-world environment.”

ALSO READ: Artscape marks 55 years with memory wall and call to support the arts