Maldivian chefs shine in international culinary competitions

September was a landmark month for the for the Chefs Guild of Maldives, and Maldives culinary industry as local chefs participated in three prestigious international competitions held across three different countries. Their performances not only brought home medals but also highlighted the growing recognition of Maldivian culinary talent worldwide.

SICA Culinary Competition, Chennai

At the South Indian Culinary Association (SICA) Culinary Competition in Chennai, India, Maldivian chefs made their mark with outstanding results. Chef Mariyam Rushdha captured the spotlight, winning a Gold Medal in the Wedding Cake category and a Bronze Medal in Dress the Cake. Meanwhile, Chef Rashfa Ahmed earned a Merit Award in both the Dress the Cake and Plated Desserts categories.

China Young Chef Pastry Challenge Asia

In Guangzhou, China, the Maldives was represented at the Asian Young Pastry Chefs Challenge by a young chef team featuring Reesha from Four Seasons Kuda Huraa and Shahana Shuhad from Villa College, guided by team manager Pastry Chef Mohamed Abdulla from Barcelos Nasandhura. The team proudly secured a Bronze Medal in the competition.

“For our young pastry chefs, this competition was more than just about medals. It was about exposure, learning, and gaining the confidence to perform under pressure on an international stage,” said Chef Guilds of Maldives.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, Villa College, and Barcelos Nasandhura for their invaluable support in granting access to their facilities and resources for the training of our team. Their unwavering commitment to nurturing emerging talent plays a vital role in the continued advancement of the Maldivian culinary industry.”

Worldchefs Global Semifinal Asia- Malaysia

For the first time ever, Maldivian chefs took part in the Worldchefs Global Semifinal Asia, held in Malaysia, a remarkable milestone for the country’s culinary journey. Chef Ajwad, Junior Sous Chef from Joali Maldives, secured a Silver Medal in the Global Chefs Challenge Asia Semifinal, where no Gold medal was awarded in this category. Chef Mariyam Lahufa, Demi Chef de Partie Pastry from Joali Being, proudly won a Bronze Medal in the Global Pastry Challenge.

“Standing our participants on that stage with the Maldives flag was the proudest moment for us. Winning silver at this level proves that our small island nation can compete with the best in the world,” said Chef Guilds of Maldives.

“We are deeply grateful to JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING for their generous sponsorship and support. Their continued investment in the professional growth of Maldivian chefs exemplifies the powerful collaboration between the hospitality sector and the national culinary community.”

Judges Representing the Maldives

Additionally, four Maldivian culinary professionals served as continental judges across these competitions: Chef Fathimath Umar – Global Chefs Semifinal Asia, Malaysia Chef Mohamed Abdulla – Asian Young Pastry Chefs Challenge, China, Chef Mariyam Shiuna and Chef Ibrahim Naeem – SICA Competition, Chennai, India

“It was an honour for us to see our judges representing the Maldives at international competitions. Notably, one of our judges had the opportunity to serve on the panel of the Global Semifinal Competition, marking the first time our nation contributed to such a high-profile international event. This is a proud and historic moment for the Chefs Guild of Maldives (CGM).”

In September, CGM extended its support by facilitating the participation of three Maldivian teams in prestigious international culinary challenges across India, China, and Malaysia. Through guidance, coordination, and representation, the Guild ensures that Maldivian chefs not only gain access to world-class competitions but also receive the mentorship and recognition they need to grow in their careers.

The Chefs Guild of Maldives (CGM) played a pivotal role in making these international achievements possible. As the national association for culinary professionals in the Maldives, CGM is dedicated to developing, supporting, and promoting local chefs on both national and global platforms

By fostering talent and creating pathways to international exposure, CGM continues to strengthen the Maldives’ presence in the global culinary community.

These achievements mark an inspiring chapter in the Maldives’ culinary journey. The chefs’ success stories reflect the nation’s evolving gastronomic identity, while their participation on international platforms strengthens the Maldives’ position within the global culinary community.