My name is Rochelle Van Der Merwe, but most people call me Chef Ro (it's just easier!). I graduated from The Art Institute with my culinary degree, and I have been in the food industry as a professional for nearly 15 years. I have been teaching for almost 10 years now, both to home cooks and to future professionals. I have taught at recreational schools, Culinary Schools, and most recently at a high school. 

I have cooked in both restaurants and catering companies. I have also been the Executive Chef of a hospital, run recreational cooking programs all over the country, and even done some private chef work. I have worked professionally on both the culinary side and the pastry side, and have taught both for many years. I simply love showing people that cooking is not difficult, and can also be quite fun!

I do have two four-legged colleagues of the kitty variety that will sometimes cry because they want to be on camera. But I assure you - I don't let the cat hair get in the food!