Young chef Danish Adham Nuqman Soon (centre) with the medals and trophy he won at the 2019 World Chef Championship recently. With him are his mum, Nurliza Adnan (right), and Datuk Michelle Soon Cheng Luan.NSTP/IZZALI ISMAIL
Young chef Danish Adham Nuqman Soon (centre) with the medals and trophy he won at the 2019 World Chef Championship recently. With him are his mum, Nurliza Adnan (right), and Datuk Michelle Soon Cheng Luan.NSTP/IZZALI ISMAIL

ALOR SETAR: Winning 17 medals at the 2019 World Chef Championship has inspired a youngster who dreams of becoming a celebrity chef.

Danish Adham Nuqman Soon, 17, a culinary arts student at Kolej Vokasional Langkawi, said he did not expect to win in all the categories that he took part in because there were more experienced competitors.

“The juries themselves were shocked when I repeatedly stepped on stage to receive the medals. They were sweet victories for me and my family.”

Danish also took home the “Outstanding Hot Cooking Chef” trophy after bagging medals in all 17 categories at the championship..

Danish, who was the youngest participant in the competition, said the support of his teachers and parents was a key driver of his success.

‘The experience I gained by participating in cooking competitions since I was in school helped me stay focused and overcome my anxiety.

‘Besides that, I used the critique and advice from the chefs to ensure I made no mistakes during the competition.’