Arona Yster Wins The Taste Master Junior Season 2
14-Year-Old Arona Yster Crowned Champion of The Taste Master Junior Season 2 in Epic Festive Finale
After weeks of intense culinary battles and creative challenges, 14-year-old Arona Yster from Krugersdorp has officially been crowned the winner of The Taste Master Junior Season 2. The much-anticipated festive finale saw the top three contestants go head-to-head in a high-stakes cook-off, where Arona’s heartfelt, flavour-packed menu secured her the coveted title.
The grand finale challenged the finalists to prepare a full celebratory festive feast, including a main dish, four side dishes, and a dessert. Rising confidently to the occasion, Arona presented a memorable menu featuring roasted leg of lamb and lemon herb chicken, paired with potato salad, mashed potatoes, beetroot roses, and a TODAY spinach and mushroom pie. She rounded off her feast with Yum Yum peanut butter frosted cupcakes. Her dishes impressed the judges with their bold flavours, thoughtful execution, and strong sense of family-inspired warmth.
As the Season 2 champion, Arona walks away with an impressive prize package. This includes R200,000 in cash from Capitec, a Hisense double-door refrigerator from Clover along with a year’s supply of Clover products, a R30,000 Food Lover’s Market voucher plus an additional R10,000 cash and a year’s supply of TODAY pastry, a baking kit worth R20,000 from Huletts, a year’s supply of Yum Yum products, and R40,000 worth of KitchenAid products.
Runner-up Tyler Robinson receives a year’s supply of Clover and Yum Yum products plus R10,000 cash, while third-place contestant Kodi Bertish takes home R5,000 in cash. In addition, all Top 12 contestants are awarded Hisense air fryers courtesy of Clover.
Reacting to her win, Arona shared her excitement and gratitude.
“When my name was announced as the winner, I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was totally surprised and super excited! The whole experience was awesome, and I learned so much. I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat. I’ve grown a ton—speaking in front of judges, guest judges, and other contestants has boosted my confidence in my skills and abilities like never before.”
she said
Judge Fritz Schoon praised Arona’s consistency and composure throughout the competition.
“Arona showed great commitment and focus in the kitchen, especially in the finale. She approached the challenge with confidence and handled a demanding menu well, which ultimately set her apart.”
Fellow judge Zola Nene echoed these sentiments, highlighting Arona’s development over the season.
“Throughout the competition, Arona demonstrated steady improvement and a willingness to learn. In the final challenge, she brought together flavour, structure, and presentation in a way that reflected how far she’s come during the season.”
Looking to the future, Arona already has ambitious plans.
“I want to start creating food content and eventually build a confectionery business. I’ve always dreamed of starting a YouTube channel and my own business, so with the prize money, I plan to save three-quarters for studying architecture later, and use the rest to buy a vlog camera. I’ll also make the most of my Food Lover’s and Huletts vouchers to create fun food content on my channel.”
she explained
Brought to viewers by Clover, the second season of The Taste Master Junior once again showcased the extraordinary talent, passion, and creativity of South Africa’s young cooks. From technical tests to emotional storytelling through food, the season celebrated growth, confidence, and the joy of cooking. Arona Yster’s victory marks a fitting and inspiring end to a standout season, firmly establishing The Taste Master Junior as a powerful platform where young culinary talent continues to shine.
