Fatima Sydow, one of South Africa’s most beloved and influential chefs and cookbook authors, has died at the age of 50 after a brave fight against cancer. She passed away on Sunday, December 19, 2023, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Sydow was diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma, a rare and aggressive type of cancer, in December 2020. She underwent several treatments and surgeries, but the cancer proved to be resistant and spread to other parts of her body. Despite the pain and challenges, she remained optimistic and grateful for the support she received from her fans and friends.
Sydow was best known for her Cape Malay cuisine, a fusion of Malay, Indian, Dutch, and African influences that reflect the rich and diverse heritage of Cape Town. She started her culinary journey by selling homemade pies and cakes from her home in Manenberg, a township on the Cape Flats. She soon gained popularity and recognition for her mouthwatering dishes and desserts, such as bobotie, biryani, koeksisters, and milk tart.
She published several cookbooks, including Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow, The Journey of Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow, and Fatima Sydow Cooks. She also hosted a cooking show on VIA TV, called Kaap, Kerrie en Koesisters, with her twin sister Gadija Sydow Noordien, who is also a chef and cookbook author. The show featured the sisters cooking traditional and modern Cape Malay recipes, as well as sharing stories and insights about their culture and family.
Sydow was not only a talented chef, but also a generous and compassionate person. She often donated food and money to the needy and the homeless in her community. She also mentored and encouraged young and aspiring chefs, especially women, to pursue their dreams and passions. She was a role model and an inspiration to many people, both in and out of the kitchen.
Fatima Sydow BIO/WIKI
| Name | Fatima Sydow |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | November 8, 1973 |
| Place of birth | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Date of death | December 19, 2023 |
| Cause of death | Soft tissue sarcoma |
| Occupation | Chef, cookbook author, TV host |
| Spouse | Ebrahim Sydow |
| Children | Four sons |
| Siblings | Gadija Sydow Noordien (twin sister), two brothers, two sisters |
| Cookbooks | Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow (2015), The Journey of Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow (2017), Fatima Sydow Cooks (2019) |
| TV show | Kaap, Kerrie en Koesisters (2018-2019) |
| Awards | Gourmand World Cookbook Award for Best TV Chef Book in English (2018), Gourmand World Cookbook Award for Best Local Cuisine Book (2019) |
How the world reacted to Fatima Sydow’s death
Sydow’s family confirmed her death on Facebook, saying: “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved sister and aunt, Fatima Sydow. She fought a courageous battle against cancer, but God had a different plan for her. She is now resting in peace, free from pain and suffering. We thank you all for your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. We ask that you respect our privacy and allow us to grieve in peace.”
Sydow’s twin sister, Gadija Sydow Noordien, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, saying: “My dearest twin sister, Fatima, words cannot express how much I miss you and love you. You were my soulmate, my best friend, my partner in crime, my everything. We shared so many memories, joys, and sorrows. We laughed together, we cried together, we cooked together, we lived together. You were the most amazing sister anyone could ask for. You were always there for me, no matter what. You were strong, brave, kind, generous, and beautiful. You touched so many lives with your food, your books, your show, and your spirit. You left a legacy that will live on forever. You are my angel, my hero, my inspiration. I know you are watching over me and our family from heaven. I know you are proud of me and what we achieved together. I know you are happy and at peace. I know we will meet again someday. Until then, I will always carry you in my heart. I love you more than words can say. Rest in peace, my twin. You are forever in my duaas.”
Conclusion
Fatima Sydow was a celebrated chef and cookbook author who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. She was known for her Cape Malay cuisine and her warm personality. She inspired generations of South Africans with her delicious dishes and her generous spirit. She left a legacy that will live on through her food, her books, her show, and her family. She was a culinary icon and a national treasure. She was loved and respected by many. She will be remembered and honored by all.
