Once Upon a Stove is a homestay in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch's largest township, owned and run by Lilian Ngwexana (also known as 'Mama Lily') who will share her fascinating lifestory with you whilst intoducing you to township life and culture. You also have the chance to take part in the 'Cook-Up Kamamma' with Lily and learn some valuable cooking skills.
Staying at Lily's house as family guest is an honour and offers an insight into the culture and lifestyle of the people here. On arrival you will be taken on a tour of the township by Lily or a friend and introduced to local people, an opportunity few visitors to South Africa experience. While at Lily's you will spend time with the family and go for walks in the township or to Stellenbosch, a short taxi ride away. Lily can also arrange tours to Cape Town and Table Mountain.
The Cook-Up Kamamma is a real highlight. Lily is an excellent cook and is happy to share her knowledge and skills. You will help create a 4 course meal and then share in eating it, seated on the floor in traditional style, drinking homemade ginger beer. Once Upon a Stove has featured on the American TV programme '1000 Things to do Before you Die' and she has also represented the Western Cape in an international food exhibition in Toronto.
Lily will also share stories from her life, explaining how she has overcome adversity to set up her own cooking business to fund the building of her home. She is also involved in community projects involving children's education and counselling for those suffering domestic abuse.
A visit to Lily's is a privilege, a delight and a humbling experience and will be a lasting memory.
