Buhle Hlongwane
Food Technologist
Johannesburg,GP
Quote
I’m no longer quite sure what the question is, but I do know that the answer is “Yes.”
Leonard Bernstein
Work Availability
monday
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morning
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evening
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Skills
Hard Skills
- HACCP Implementation
- Technical Report Writing
- Sensory Evaluation
- Label Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge (eg R146)
Soft Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- TimeManagement
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Adaptability
- Strategic troubleshooting
Summary
I am a Junior Food Technologist with hands-on experience at Rhodes Food Group, where I supported research and development through recipe formulation, sensory evaluation, quality assurance, and HACCP implementation. My work has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the 2024 FACTS NPD Prize and the Top Achiever Award. Beyond technical skills, I bring strong communication and leadership abilities, developed through tutoring, team leadership, and community outreach initiatives.
I am passionate about food safety, product innovation, and sustainable food solutions, evidenced by my contribution to the Frosty Bomb Balls project. I am actively seeking roles in research and development or food product development where I can further apply my skills and make meaningful impacts.
What compels me about my qualification in Food Science is not only the intricate chemistry behind food but also its power as a sharp tool to transform, uplift, and sustain communities. I am deeply committed to developing innovative solutions that provide access to nutritious food for all, regardless of socio-economic background. The world faces a critical challenge: vast amounts of food are wasted while millions go to bed hungry every night. My goal is to promote education and advance sustainable practices through upcycled food concepts, creating opportunities where people can access affordable food and generate livelihoods in resource-limited economies.
Work History
Junior Food Technologist
Rhodes Food Group
07.2023 - 06.2024
- Worked with the Senior Food Technologist and R&D team to adjust and refine product formulations.
- Conducted sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and ingredient functionality tests to assess product performance.
- Supported HACCP system development and compliance with GMP and foodsafety standards.
- Monitored production lines to ensure adherence to Standard OperatingProcedures (SOPs).
- Participated in pilot and full-scale production trials, ensuring smooth transitions and quality consistency.
- Evaluated raw materials and packaging components for quality and suitability.
- Maintained technical documentation, including recipes, specifications, and quality reports.
- Provided input in troubleshooting production issues and participated incorrective action processes.
Overview
1
1
year of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Education
Diploma - Food Technology
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg 03.2021 - 11.2024
Advanced Diploma - Food Technology
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg 02.2025 - Current
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimePart TimeInternshipWork Location
HybridRemoteOn-SiteImportant To Me
Career advancementLanguages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Xitsonga
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Isizulu
Intermediate (B1)
Setswana
Intermediate (B1)
Certification
- SA Food Labelling Regulation
- HACCP & GMP Implementation (via Rhodes Food Group experience)
Projects
1. Intervarsity Brewing Competition (2023)
- Designed winning beer label aligned with R146 regulations
- Member of UJ Brewing Team (Labelling Division)
2. SAAFoST New Product Development (2024) – Frosty Bomb Balls
- Developed a sustainable and innovative frozen product
- Responsible for formulation, market research, and sensory evaluation
Achievements
- 2024 FACTS NPD Prize 2023 Top Achiever – Dept. of Biotechnology and Food Technology
- Best Beer Label Winner – Intervarsity Brewing Competition
- RFG Radermaker Puff Pastry Training
- UJ African Insight Award
- Leadership Awards (BGEM)
- UP KTG Maths, Physics & Accounting MAP Award
References
Mr Mabatane Ntjana QC Supervisor, Rhodes Food Group
Phone: 060 895 3607
Email: mabatane.ntjana@rfg.com
Dr Minenhle Khoza Lecturer & WIL Coordinator, University of Johannesburg
Phone: 011 559 6252
Email: minenhlek@uj.ac.za
Dr Tumisi Molelekoa Lecturer, University of Johannesburg
Phone: 011 559 6319
Email: tumisim@uj.ac.za
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