Sheik Mukthar Ahmed, a resident of Nakavu in Nadi, has pursued his passion for cooking from humble beginnings to his current role as a Demi Chef De Partie at a prestigious five-star resort on Denarau Island. Mukthar credits much of his love for food to his mother, Hazra Begam, whose cooking was infused with love and creativity.
Starting his culinary journey in 2007 as a steward, Mukthar learned the fundamentals of the kitchen—cleaning plates and observing seasoned chefs. These early experiences fueled his ambitions and motivated him to dream bigger. Today, he works at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort, where he has been inspired by mentors like Chef Rakesh and Chef Dante. With their guidance, he achieved a significant milestone by winning a gold medal at the Fiji Chefs National Salon Culinary 2024, a moment he proudly regards as a key highlight of his career.
Mukthar thrives in the kitchen, where he manages various stations, including Indian cuisine, omelettes, and soups. He views cooking not just as a job, but as an art form that allows him to connect with guests and create memorable dining experiences. He acknowledges the challenges of catering to dietary restrictions, which he sees as opportunities for growth and creativity.
For aspiring chefs, Mukthar has a motivational message: while the culinary path is fraught with difficulties, the rewards of pursuing one’s passion are invaluable. He emphasizes that success in the kitchen requires hard work, resilience, and the courage to dream big. “Every dish tells a story—what will yours be?” he asks, encouraging others to embrace their culinary journeys.
With such a passionate dedication to his craft, Mukthar’s story is an inspiring reminder of how love for food can transform lives and foster connections through the joys of cooking.
This article highlights the importance of resilience and passion in professional growth, celebrating individual journeys that inspire others in the culinary field. It’s a testament to how one can rise from humble beginnings to achieve great things with dedication and mentorship.
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