Life
Known for setting new standards in the culinary world, Chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi is the first Emirati Pastry Chef in the UAE.
On the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day 2024, we invited four inspiring women, pioneers in their fields of expertise to share their remarkable journeys.
Regarded as MENA’s best Pastry Chef, the Emirati star is becoming a role model for pastry chefs in the region and all over the globe.
Having previously works as a pastry chef at Burj Al Arab, her culinary skills were put to the test. Through her resilient nature, she was able to establish herself in the industry and carve a niche in the F&B industry.
“I always wanted to be a chef, I loved making new pastries, finding new ingredients and new techniques on creating.” She also emphasized on how the learning process never stops.
As a male dominated field, the hospitality industry is slowly steering away from its preconceived notion. Now, more than ever, Emirati women are taking the lead and Chef Sahar is one of them.
By drawing on local recipes, Al Awadhi also seeks out the best local ingredients for her dishes. While the UAE has been dependent on importation in the past, she explains how this food culture is gradually changing.
“Whatever it is that you do, do it wholeheartedly without taking any shortcuts and learn everything on the way,” she advises the younger generation of Emirati women in the region.
Having completely changed her career trajectory, since she first started. With the vision of now seeing more Emirati Chefs in the industry. Through mentorship and guidance, she’s open to paving the way for many young talents to exceed in this arena.
