Maldivian chefs bag silver and bronze in historic wins at Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge semis

Maldivian chefs achieved historical success on Saturday, as they won silver and bronze medals at the Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge Asian semi-finals.

According to the Chefs Guild of Maldives (CGM), Chef Uwais Fayaz won the bronze medal in the Global Chefs Challenge category, while Chef Fathimath Suma Areef secured a spot in the 2027 World Finals in China by winning the silver medal in the Global Vegan Chefs Challenge.

The silver medal awarded to Suma is the highest accolade given in that category at this year's tournament. Securing this award and advancing to the finals represents the highest achievement a Maldivian chef has attained in the Global Chefs Challenge to date.

Uwais and Suma are culinary team members at the dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives.

They both worked and trained under the resort's executive chef Mohamed Adil and executive pastry chef Ahmed Nashath.

The semi-final challenge required both chefs to prepare a three-course menu within 2-and-a-half-hours.

The CGM commended the artistry, skills, and creativity demonstrated by both chefs throughout the tournament, and extended warm congratulations the chefs for their success, patience, and exemplary professionalism.

The association also extended congratulations to Mohamed Adil and Ahmed Nashath for training and preparing the duo for the competition.

This year’s competition marks the second time a Maldivian team has participated in the Global Chefs Challenge Asian semi-finals. The previous Maldivian team secured a bronze medal in the Global Pastry Chefs category and a silver medal in the Global Chefs category.

“The association considers Chef Suma qualifying for the finals with a silver medal a proud and historic milestone for both the organization and the local culinary sector,” said the CGM.

The association also expressed gratitude to the Atmosphere Foundation for providing the sponsorship that enabled the Maldivian team's participation this year, helping enhance local culinary skills and showcase local talents on the international stage.

The Worldchefs Global Championship finals will take place from March 30 to April in Shanghai, China. The event will feature 88 teams from seven global regions competing across nine total categories, including Global Chefs, Pastry Chefs, Young Chefs, Vegan Chefs, Heritage Chefs, Butchery, Bakery, and Recognized Schools.