Young Talent Shines: 15 yrs Aishath Zara Zaheen Wins Bronze at Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2025

Aishath Zara Zaheen has made a spectacular debut at the prestigious Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2025, proving that passion and talent know no age limit. At the age of 15 years, as the youngest participant in the competition, Zara entered the highly competitive Young Chef Challenge category and remarkably secured a bronze medal.

Competing against seasoned resort employees and university students, Zara demonstrated exceptional skill and creativity, in preparing an amazing dish “Pan seared Seabass with Ghost Pepper Glaze Daebak Tteokbokki Cream Sauce, served with Drumstick Ravioli, sauteed Bok Choy & Sweet Potato Beetroot mash” that impressed the International Judges.

A Culinary Journey Inspired by Family

Zara's journey into the competitive culinary world was sparked by a moment of inspiration while witnessing her mother, the renowned Jury, Chef Mariyam Shiuna, judging at the SICA Culinary Olympiad Chennai 2025. Determined to showcase her own calibre, Zara initiated the effort to participate in the Hotel Asia challenge.

This desire to compete is not entirely new. In 2023, Zara participated in the FHAM Kids category, where she won a Silver medal. Although there were only few participants in that category, it was a crucial step in her competitive development.

Following in the Footsteps of a Culinary Icon

Zara's biggest inspiration is undoubtedly her mother, Chef Mariyam Shiuna, a true forerunner in the Maldivian culinary landscape. Chef Shiuna is the second Maldivian female to achieve the highly respected Continental Judge license from WACS (World Association of Chefs' Societies).

As one of the most decorated chefs in the Maldives, Chef Shiuna's extensive experience working as a Jury in numerous countries provides Zara with a world-class role model.

The Dream of a Fusion Chef

Clearly following in her mother's footsteps, Zara is already setting ambitious goals for her future. She aspires to become a fusion chef, driven by a constant desire to experience new techniques and new ingredients.

For this young culinary prodigy, winning a medal at the Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge is just the beginning. Zara's dream is to participate in an international culinary challenge and win a medal at this young age, a goal she is well on her way to achieving. Her bronze medal is a testament to her dedication and a thrilling promise of the culinary star she is destined to become.