Culinary stars shine at NamChefs Chef of the Year Competition
The kitchens at the NUST Hotel School were buzzing last weekend as some of Namibia’s most talented chefs went head-to-head in the annual NamChefs Chef of the Year Competition.From sizzling pans to tears, the event showcased the incredible passion and creativity shaping Namibia’s culinary future.
In the school category, young chef Isabella Adamson claimed the title of Chef of the Year, wowing the judges with her confidence, creativity and flawless execution.
Chef Elizabeth Shikongeni stole the spotlight by taking home two major awards - Junior Chef of the Year and Overall Winner. Her talent and precision earned her loud cheers and a standing ovation. She received her awards from Executive Chef and Chairperson of the Namibian Chefs Association, Curt Burns, who congratulated all the competitors on their exceptional standard and professionalism.
The Senior Chef of the Year title went to Tandiwanashe Namate, whose emotional reaction and warm congratulations from his peers made for one of the most memorable moments of the evening.
Adding to the inspiration was Elizabeth Isai, last year’s Chef of the Year, who has since gone on to win major competitions in the UAE and is now preparing to compete internationally. Sharing words of wisdom with this year’s winners, she reminded them: “Hygiene and cleanliness are the most important parts of cooking. They also judge based on taste and presentation.”
Judge and catering company owner Hantie Jansen praised this year’s competitors for their world-class standard, saying: “The competition is at a high level this year. The skill is incredible. Namibian chefs’ skills are not any different than chefs around the world.”
From fresh vegetarian starters to perfectly cooked spinach and salmon mains and finally decadent chocolate desserts, this year’s NamChefs Chef of the Year Competition proved that Namibia’s culinary talent can stand proudly on the global stage.