Cait McWilliams Wins BBC's Great South African Bake Off

Cait McWilliams became the triumphant winner of the BBC Lifestyle show on Tuesday. The show had an incredible 100 000 viewers each week and McWilliams impressed a number of them. 

Independent Media's Food & Drink team caught up with the newly crowned McWilliams and this is what she had to say.

Congrats on the win, has it sunk in yet?

It hasn't sunk in yet! Maybe in a few days but for now it is so surreal and it feels like I am dreaming.

You are currently the youngest person to achieve this feat how does that feel?

I'm surprised that I am the youngest, but at the same time that makes me extra proud that I am part of paving the way for young people to achieve their dreams and to show that age doesn't mean you cannot stand up in line with those who may have more experience.

How old when you when you started preparing food?

I have always loved baking but at about age 14 I started taking it seriously and realized it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I haven't looked back since.

Why did you enter this competition?

I entered because I saw it as an amazing opportunity to learn and to surround myself with like minded people who also shared such a passion for good food.

What were some of the highlights on the show?

There are so many highlights! Episodes 4 and 5 will always spring to mind as I did very well and was considered for star Baker, and I really enjoyed those challenges.

Would there be anything else that you would change?

I wouldn't change a thing. The experience I had was perfect and I appreciated every moment.

Now that you've won, where to from here?

I am going to culinary school next year as I had planned before, but I hope to maybe start working on a book or something like that, to inspire young people and encourage baking as not only something fun but also a form of therapy.