Genna Tozer

After working in Dubai and Vietnam for many years, I returned home to Zimbabwe to head up the new Palm River and existing Ilala Hotels as Group Chef of the Palm Hospitality Group. During the time leading the opening team I gained a great appreciation for training, skills growth and menu development - as well as the importance of installing the highest international standards and systems.

I realised that this is an area ripe for improvement across Zimbabwe, as the tourism and hospitality industries flourish - attracting an ever more diverse range of travellers, and for this reason have chosen to focus my career in this direction.

I'm passionate and self-motivated; I enjoy developing new skills and pushing creativity, as well as forging the sense of teamwork in the kitchen that is a joy to work with, ensuring the best quality of food and guest experience. I believe when each team member is motivated to take accountability for their work, the best results are achieved.

Throughout my 12 years of international experience in leading hotels and restaurants in Dubai, Vietnam and South Africa I have learned an appreciation for a diversity of vibrant flavours which I want to bring to the Zimbabwe food scene. I am also very keen on health and nutrition, incorporating the use of culturing, fermentation and local ingredients wherever I can.