YRC 2025: One Step Closer

After countless hours in the kitchen, refining every detail and pushing myself beyond limits, I am proud to share that I have made it to the final and been named the 8th finalist. This journey has been intense, humbling and unforgettable. Today marks my 10th attempt at cooking this risotto. With every plate, I have learned how to balance flavours, manage timing under pressure and present my dish with more clarity and confidence. Growth has come with every stir, every taste, every adjustment.

I am so grateful to Paulo for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. He is the best mentor and chef any student could ask for. Ashley, as always, thank you for being there. You always support me no matter what, and yes, you are an amazing driver too. Thank you Michael and Laura for creating the menu. The judges seemed to like it, especially when I saw them taking pictures of the framed menu. And to everyone at UWL who has supported me, thank you, thank you, thank you.

To Livio, Ben, Mia, Tia, Amie and Emily, you are all strong competitors, and it was a tough one. I truly admire your work and spirit. Come back stronger. We might compete again one day.

A huge thank you to Artis, Claire, Dasha and everyone else from North Herts College who were involved. You helped me a lot, a lot, a lot. It was such a lovely little college with a warm, welcoming kitchen and kind people who made the experience even more special.

To Jason, Anthony and Rees, thank you for tasting my risotto and for the valuable feedback. I will take it on board and use it to improve.

To my family and friends, thank you for being behind me every step of the way. Your messages, your belief in me and the fact that so many of you wanted to come and watch me in the final mean more than I can say. I felt your support with me in every moment.

I am holding onto this feeling. The final is coming. I am ready.