South Africa's most beloved DJ has a confession to make: she's not much of a cook. And rather than hide it, DJ Zinhle is leaning into it because Knorr, the brand that has spent decades helping South Africans make something delicious out of whatever's in the kitchen, has named her as their 2026 brand ambassador.

It's a pairing that works precisely because it's honest. Zinhle isn't being positioned as a culinary authority. She's stepping into what Knorr is calling her "Cooking Bestie" era an ongoing journey into the kitchen that audiences will follow in real time, watching her build confidence, discover new flavours, and learn that a great meal doesn't require perfection. It just requires a willingness to try and, apparently, the right wingman.

"I'm really excited to be partnering with Knorr on this journey," Zinhle says. "Cooking isn't something I've always felt confident in, but that's what makes this so special for me. I'm looking forward to learning, growing, and sharing the experience showing that you don't have to be perfect to create something delicious."

The partnership kicked off with an intimate candlelit dinner hosted by Knorr, a warm evening shared with close friends that set the tone for everything to follow: good food, genuine connection, and no pretence.

Beyond the content journey, Knorr is inviting South Africans to cook along at home with real stakes. Consumers stand a chance to win their share of R500 000 by purchasing any four Knorr soups in-store and WhatsApp-ing their till slip to +27 87 265 1280. It's a simple mechanic that transforms an ordinary shopping trip into a reason to get into the kitchen.

"DJ Zinhle embodies everything Knorr stands for authenticity, growth, and a genuine connection with South Africans," says Kerry Cuppasamy, Knorr South Africa's Brand Lead. "She's inviting people into her journey of building confidence in the kitchen, and that's exactly what Knorr aims to do."

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or someone who still finds the kitchen faintly intimidating, Zinhle's journey is designed to feel like yours too. Which is, of course, the whole point.

Purchase any 4x Knorr soups in-store and WhatsApp your till slip to +27 87 265 1280 to enter. Ts & Cs apply.