CHEF/CULINARY CATEGORY
AWARD TITLES AND DESCRIPTIONS
1. Best Overall Chef (Male)
Honours a male chef whose exceptional culinary talent, creativity, and influence
have made a significant mark in the African food space.
2. Best Overall Chef (Female)
Celebrates a female chef whose leadership in the kitchen and excellence in
African or global cuisine have stood out remarkably.
3. Best Pastry Chef
Recognizes mastery in pastry and dessert creation — from baked goods to
modern sweets — with creativity and consistency.
4. Best Gourmet Chef
For the chef who has elevated the fine dining experience through flavour,
presentation, and innovation rooted in African culinary stories.
5. Best Food Artist
Rewards the chef or culinary creative who transforms meals into visual art,
showcasing the aesthetic brilliance of food.
6. Best Mixologist
Honours a master of drink creation — alcoholic or non-alcoholic — who crafts
exceptional beverage experiences inspired by African roots or global flair.
7. Rising Star
For an emerging talent (under 35 or within 5 years in the industry) whose
creativity, energy, and culinary expression signal a bright future.
8. Best Culinary School
Recognizes an institution offering outstanding culinary training, with a track
record of excellence in grooming next-gen chefs and food leaders.
9. Foodpreneur of the Year
Celebrates a culinary entrepreneur who is building sustainable food businesses,
driving innovation, and impacting local communities.
NOMINATION GUIDELINES
- This being the first-ever edition, all entries must reflect notable activity within the
past 18–24 months. - Open to individuals of African origin or operating within Africa’s food ecosystem.
- Self-nominations and third-party nominations are welcome.
- Nominees must have publicly accessible work, business, or content showcasing
their culinary identity. - Previous award winners do not apply (this is the maiden edition), but finalists will
be profiled as pioneers in future listings.
NOMINEE CRITERIA
- This being the first-ever edition, all entries must reflect notable activity within the
past 18–24 months. - Open to individuals of African origin or operating within Africa’s food ecosystem.
- Self-nominations and third-party nominations are welcome.
- Nominees must have publicly accessible work, business, or content showcasing
their culinary identity. - Previous award winners do not apply (this is the maiden edition), but finalists will
be profiled as pioneers in future listings.
WHAT THE JURY WILL LOOK FOR
- Â Documented evidence of work (photos, videos, press features, testimonials).
- Alignment with African food heritage and/or innovation.
- Quality and consistency across platforms or service points.
- Efforts to promote food education, mentorship, or professional growth.
- Social impact and sustainability practices (where applicable).
