Culinary Stars to Judge Regional Finals of S.Pellegrino Young Chef Competition
Meet the Local Jury for Africa, Middle East & South Asia in the Sixth Edition of S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-25
The sixth edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy competition has begun, and anticipation is building for the regional finals. This prestigious event, aimed at discovering and nurturing the world’s most talented young chefs, features a new panel of esteemed judges from Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. This year, the jury includes Bertus Basson from South Africa, Roaya Saleh from Bahrain, and Akmal Anuar from Dubai. These culinary luminaries will be evaluating the dishes presented by young chef finalists in Cape Town later this year.
Bertus Basson
Bertus Basson, a celebrated South African chef, is renowned for his award-winning restaurants in Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands, such as Eike, Spek en Bone, and Geuwels. Known for his traditional South African food with a contemporary twist, Basson brings a wealth of experience to the jury. He was named Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year in 2019. As a juror, Basson emphasizes the importance of seasonal flavors and authentic cooking. He looks for chefs who are organized, methodical, and technically skilled. Basson is excited to see how young chefs will showcase their heritage and culture through their dishes, highlighting the distinct and recognizable cuisines of their regions.
Roaya Saleh
Roaya Saleh, a self-taught chef and pioneer in the Bahrain dining scene, is on a mission to share Khaleeji and Bahraini cuisine with the world. Her restaurant, Villa Mamas, blends influences from Iran, India, and Europe with nostalgic flavors from her childhood. This successful approach has led to Villa Mamas opening locations in London, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh. Saleh is looking for chefs who demonstrate passion and a deep understanding of working with produce. She believes in the importance of mentoring young chefs, helping them to become better than their predecessors. Saleh is eager to hear the stories of young talents and see their potential come through in their dishes.
Akmal Anuar
Akmal Anuar, raised by street vendor parents in Singapore, has risen through the culinary ranks to become the head of multiple award-winning restaurants in Singapore, the Middle East, Europe, and the USA. He is the chef-proprietor of White Rice, a company specializing in bespoke food-centric experiences. His portfolio includes MENA’s 50 Best and Michelin-starred 11 Woodfire, as well as Michelin Bib Gourmand Japanese restaurants Goldfish and OTORO. Anuar values originality, taste, and philosophy in cooking. He seeks precision and craft in simplicity and is excited to see young chefs push their creativity and present something new and unique. This is his first time participating in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition, and he looks forward to the collaboration and innovation it fosters.
For more information, visit the official website: S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy.
