A team of Maldivian chefs, led by experienced Chef Ibrahim Zuhair and under the guidance of MMPRC’s Board Member Maha Naseer, displayed the culinary artistry of Maldives at ITB Berlin 2024. A diverse range of traditional Maldivian delicacies were showcased at the stand, offering visitors a taste of the flavors and ingredients that define local cuisine. The team also played a key role in catering the Maldivian Evening gala event.
Chef Zuhair, with over a decade of experience in the F&B sector of the Maldivian tourism industry, is a champion of local flavors. His career spans over a decade, with positions at some of the most prestigious resorts in the Maldives, including Soneva Jani, where he served as Sous Chef at the private island, and Siyam World, where he led the main restaurant kitchen.
Aminath Junaina Jamsheed honed her skills at Jazz Cafe’, where she quickly rose from Commis Pastry and Bakery to Assistant Pastry Chef within a few months. In 2022, Junaina joined Kurumba Maldives as Commi 1 Pastry, further expanding her knowledge and experience. Her talent in crafting Maldivian desserts and pastries was evident at ITB Berlin 2024.
Mariyam Lahufa brought a blend of marketing and culinary expertise to the team. Her culinary journey began in 2019 with a pastry internship at Lux* North Male Atoll. Over the next four years, Mariyam worked her way up, holding positions from Commis III to Commis II at Lux* North Male Atoll. In 2023, she joined Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island as Demi Chef De Partie.
The Maldivian chefs at ITB Berlin 2024 created a dynamic culinary experience for the visitors. Live cooking demonstrations, showcasing traditional Maldivian cooking techniques and offering a glimpse into the heart of Maldivian cuisine, were conducted at the fair. The chefs actively engaged with visitors, explaining the ingredients and cultural significance of each dish, fostering a cultural connection through the strong language of food. The chefs also displayed local ingredients at the stall, highlighting how Maldivians use fresh, local produce in our cuisine.
For the Maldivian Evening gala event, the team went beyond tradition, creating innovative fusion dishes, showcasing the team’s creativity and ability to bridge the gap between Maldivian heritage and international palates.