As South Africa’s presence at the FIFA World Cup continues to captivate global audiences, one of the country’s most celebrated cultural ambassadors, Lorna Maseko, took centre stage in Atlanta, using the universal language of food to tell a uniquely South African story.

Hosted by Brand South Africa at the exclusive Retreat at The Gathering Spot, the Ubuntu Welcome and Honorary Dinner brought together an extraordinary gathering of political leaders, business executives, cultural icons, sporting legends and friends of South Africa for an evening that celebrated heritage, unity and the enduring spirit of ubuntu.

While the evening honoured the longstanding relationship between South Africa and Atlanta, it was through Lorna Maseko’s carefully curated culinary experience that guests were invited to truly taste the essence of South Africa.

Working alongside acclaimed Chef Sosa, Maseko crafted a menu that reflected the country’s rich cultural diversity, blending contemporary elegance with authentic South African flavours. Paired with premium South African wines from Steenberg and Graham Beck, the dining experience became a powerful expression of national identity, showcasing the country’s creativity, sophistication and world-class hospitality on an international stage.

For Maseko, whose career has transformed her into one of Africa’s most recognised food personalities, the opportunity represented far more than serving a meal. It was a moment to present South Africa’s story to the world through one of its most treasured cultural assets: its cuisine.

The prestigious gathering took place ahead of South Africa’s highly anticipated World Cup fixture in Atlanta and coincided with the commemoration of June 16, marking 50 years since the Soweto Uprising. Throughout the evening, guests reflected on South Africa’s remarkable journey, its democratic legacy and the powerful bonds that continue to connect South Africa and the United States.

Among those in attendance were legendary civil rights leader and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Andrew Young, former Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, current Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, representatives from the Nelson Mandela Foundation, media pioneer Felicia Mabuza-Suttle, football icon Simphiwe Tshabalala, music stars Jermaine Dupri and 2 Chainz, alongside an influential mix of leaders from business, government and civil society.

The evening also paid tribute to football pioneer Dr Kaizer Motaung, recognising his historic ties to Atlanta and celebrating the role sport continues to play in building bridges between nations, cultures and communities.

Speakers reflected on the deep historical connections between Atlanta and South Africa – relationships forged through decades of collaboration, solidarity and shared values. Mayor Andre Dickens spoke warmly about the significance of welcoming South Africa to Atlanta during one of the world’s biggest sporting events, while Ambassador Andrew Young shared heartfelt reflections on his lifelong admiration for South Africa and the special place the country occupies in his personal journey.

Yet amid the diplomacy, the speeches and the celebrations, food remained a central thread weaving the evening together. Through every course, Maseko offered guests an invitation to experience South Africa not simply as a destination, but as a living, breathing culture rich in history, resilience and innovation.

The Ubuntu Welcome and Honorary Dinner ultimately became more than a pre-match celebration. It was a showcase of South Africa’s soft power — where food, sport, culture and storytelling converged to create meaningful connections across continents.

And at the heart of it all was Lorna Maseko, serving not only a meal, but a compelling reminder that South Africa’s greatest export may well be its ability to bring people together around a table, united by shared experiences, mutual respect and the timeless spirit of ubuntu.