Class of ’96: Rise of a Nation — When Football, Memory, and Identity Share the Same Plate

Hey Skinny readers, I trust you all had a fabulous week. Welcome to another edition of The Skinny Chef Diaries Weekly Blog.

This week has been absolutely smashing. I had the privilege of attending the premiere of Class of ’96: Rise of a Nation, produced by Known Associates Entertainment in partnership with A Barking Rat Film.

After watching the first episode, I can confidently say: this documentary doesn’t just tell a football story it serves a full cultural feast.

I attended the premiere with my future mother-in-law, Lendy. Sadly, Shadre couldn’t make it you were dearly missed, love. There was something beautifully symbolic about sharing that moment across generations. Different lived experiences, yet the same emotional response: pride, reflection, and gratitude.

More Than Football — This Was Nation-Building

For those who remember 1996, or who grew up feeling its ripple effects, this documentary hits deep.

The Class of ’96, led by coach Clive William Barker  may his soul rest in eternal peace (what a legend) and a gifted, determined squad, were never just footballers. They were a symbol of hope in a freshly united South Africa. A time when belief tasted fresh and the future felt possible.

The Human Stories Made It Powerful

What stood out most for me was the humanity. The vulnerability. The unseen grind behind the glory.

These weren’t just athletes; they were young men carrying the weight of a nation learning how to walk again. The storytelling was honest and grounded no unnecessary garnish, just truth, served with respect. And that’s exactly what made it powerful.

Why This Matters to the Skinny Chef

As someone who writes about growth, health, identity, and evolution, this documentary aligns deeply with my own journey.

The Class of ’96 reminds us that:

• You don’t need perfection to start

• You need belief, discipline, and unity

• And sometimes, you rise not just for yourself but for everyone watching

It also reminded me why storytelling matters. Whether through food, words, or film, our stories shape how we heal, how we dream, and how we move forward.

Watching the first episode felt like stepping back into a kitchen where the recipe for nationhood was still being tested:

• A pinch of uncertainty

• A whole lot of courage

• Raw talent

• And an unshakable hunger to prove that we belonged on the world stage

As a chef, I couldn’t help but see the parallels.Great teams whether in football or food  are built under pressure. Heat reveals character.

Final Thoughts

Class of ’96: Rise of a Nation is not just a documentary you watch.It’s one you feel.

If you’re South African, this is essential viewing.If you love stories of resilience, leadership, and purpose this is for you.

The premiere left me inspired, grounded, and proud. And just like a well-cooked meal, the first episode lingered long after it ended.

Salute to the legends.

Salute to the Storytellers

A special shout-out to:

• Known Associates Group

• Joel Chikapa-Phiri, Group Chairman

• Tshepiso Chikapa-Phiri, Group CEO

• Moroba Nkawe, CEO of Known Associates Entertainment

• Leo Chikapa-Phiri, Head of Production

• John Barker, Director at A Barking Rat Film  your father would be proud

The documentary airs live on e.tv Sundays from 25 January at 5pm (@etvonline) and streams on Netflix from 27 January.Be sure to watch it, Skinnies you will be blown away.

And salute to a nation that continues to rise  one chapter at a time.

Skinny Chef Recipe: “Rise of a Nation” Heritage Chicken Stew

Inspired by the spirit of the Class of ’96  humble beginnings, bold flavour, and unity — this dish celebrates South African resilience, shared tables, and food that nourishes both body and soul.

Why This Dish?

Just like that legendary team, this stew is:

• Built from simple, honest ingredients

• Strengthened by time and patience

• Best enjoyed together

A reminder that greatness often comes from slow cooking and strong foundations.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 whole free-range chicken, jointed (or 1.5kg chicken pieces)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp mild curry powder

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 2 ripe tomatoes, grated

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 litre good-quality chicken stock

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 potatoes, cubed

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (to finish)

Method

1. Build the Base Heat olive oil in a heavy-based pot over medium heat.Sauté onions until soft, golden, and slightly sweet.

2. Layer the Flavour Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.Stir in spices and allow them to bloom.

3. Brown with Purpose Add chicken and brown on all sides. Depth comes from patience — don’t rush this step.

4. Tell the Story Add grated tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 5 minutes until rich and thick.

5. Slow Rise Pour in stock, add carrots and potatoes, season well, and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Patience Wins Cover and cook on low heat for 45–60 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce deeply flavourful.

7. Finish Strong Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh herbs, and rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve (Skinny Chef Style)

Serve with:

• Steamed samp or soft pap for authenticity

• Or brown rice or quinoa for a lighter, modern twist

Best enjoyed around a table filled with conversation, reflection, and pride.

Final Note from the Skinny Chef

Food and football have something in common they bring people together when words fall short.

This dish is my tribute to the Class of ’96:

rooted, resilient, and proudly South African.

Cook it slow.Share it widely.And remember we rise together. Thank you for tuning in, same time, same place!

Love the, Skinny Chef.

Creative Director: Shadre Leonard