Self-Care Cooking & Baking Weekends

Check in for our self-care cooking and baking weekend retreats launching in 2025. At all previous retreats, our participants asked for special cooking and baking retreats with our chef Nontsikelelo. Over the course of the weekend, she will take you to the garden to harvest organic food, share her recipes to prepare fresh meals and indulge in delicious baking.

Our vision with this retreat:

• Rediscovering the joy of preparing wholesome meals is a powerful act of self-care. By taking control of your diet and nourishing your body with fresh, nutritious ingredients, you’re investing in your long-term health and well-being.
• Cooking can be a meditative process, allowing you to unwind and de-stress. Plus, sharing homemade meals with loved ones fosters connection and strengthens relationships.
• This retreat beautifully balanced fun, learning, and connection—an ideal getaway for friends looking to create lasting memories.

What to Expect

• Harvest Fresh Ingredients: Immerse yourself in nature as you harvest organic produce straight from our garden.
• Masterful Culinary Techniques: Learn from our talented chef, Nontsikelelo, as she shares her secrets to creating mouth-watering dishes.
• Delicious Recipes: Discover a variety of recipes, from easy-to-make wholesome family meals like comforting pot pies to soothing teas.
• Share Your Story: Bring a special recipe that brings you comfort or healing, and share the story behind it with the group.
• Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Unwind in a serene environment and take time for yourself.

Let’s Come Together To:

• Master new cooking and baking techniques.
• Learn about nutritious ingredients and prepare healthy meals.
• Reduce stress through cooking and baking.
• Practice mindfulness through gardening and cooking.
• Connect with like-minded individuals and share stories.
• Boost your confidence in the kitchen.
• Discover new passions and interests.
• Improve your overall health and well-being.

Our retreats are led by an experienced and passionate team:

• Juliane, a systemic coach and therapist with a master’s degree in Psychology, brings deep insight into building strong family connections.
• Nontsikelelo, a dedicated cook and chef with over 10 years of experience in the culinary space, having learned to cook in a reputable national catering company (Fedics) that services small and large corporates, and the current head chef for all BridgingGaps e.V team-building and youth camp events, and RwJ retreats.
• Zakhele, a food and wine enthusiast and a senior facilitator for BridgingGaps e.V who will be responsible for vibez and facilitating critical discussions, connections, fun activities around the dinner table and beyond.  

Together, they create a nurturing space where guests can thrive, grow, and return home with a treasure trove of cherished moments.