
We're excited to see the field of competitors who have already won their golden ticket and registered to compete at the 2025 World Food Championships. And we are always proud to announce our special guests and celebrity judges participating in our judging events across the nation - we're sure the championship food certainly helps! Best of luck to our 2025 competitors!

COMPETITOR
Azhar Katarbayeva
HEAD COOK: Azhar Katarbayeva
COMPETITION: World Noodle Championship
My name is Azhar, I’m from Kazakhstan currently living in Dubai for the last 5 years. Since I was kid I was helping my mom a lot in the kitchen, that’s where I learnt main skills and knowledge of ingredients and flavors. I have lived in South Korea, France, UK which helped me to experience different cuisines and expand my flavor profile. My husband and I still travel a lot and try to discover new cuisines and ingredients. 1 year ago I started hosting supper club and workshops where I teach people how to make Central Asian style dumplings and noodles. My mission is to spread love, create connections and community of people who share the same values as family and friendship. I want everyone who tries my food to have this comfort feeling that they are home no matter where they are and that they belong. I quit my corporate job I went to ICCA culinary academy in Dubai to learn more about cooking, meet likeminded people and pursue my passion. I am so excited to compete and connect with the chefs from all over the world!