ELEVEN chefs from Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa have won medals at two major culinary competitions, with their success showcasing the growing skills and capabilities of Fiji’s hospitality workforce.
Nine chefs secured medals at the Fiji National Salon Culinaire, at the Fiji National University’s Namaka Campus on October 21, with Varsha Lata leading the team with a gold medal in Southeast Asian Cuisine. Six chefs received silver medals across three categories.
Kaushik Chand and Farhaan Ali won silver in classic local dish, while Etuate Tawase, Siteri Nabulagi and Elenoa Qalomaiwasa were recognised in desserts. Nikhil Krishna secured silver in the Junior Chef category. Paula Tuni won bronze in seafood dish, while Ledua Raikasakasa received bronze in cake decoration.
The team’s success continued two days later at the Hospitality and Tourism Exhibition and Conference (HOTEC) Culinary Competition 2026 at Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay Resort.
Chefs Samuela Tamaitunasoga and Michael Wise each won gold medals in the Mystery Box Challenge, which tested their creativity, technical skills and ability to transform mystery ingredients into quality dishes.
Hilton Fiji Cluster general manager Carey Osborne said the achievements reflected the resort’s commitment to investing in its employees and creating opportunities for local talent.
“At Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa, we believe in recognising potential, investing in our people and creating opportunities for local talent to grow, develop and excel,” Ms Osborne said.
She said the resort supported its chefs through training, mentorship and participation in industry competitions to strengthen their skills and professional development.
She said the achievements would provide valuable preparation for next year’s Hilton Hotels and Resorts Australasia and South Pacific Food and Beverage Masters competition, where the team would compete against chefs from other hotels in the region.
