Sanjay Sharma, 30, was  overwhelmed when he was awarded the gold medal during the Tanoa Group of Hotels 9th annual Salon Culinaire at the Tanoa Skylodge yesterday.

The Sous Chef who works at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi could not contain his joy after winning his first ever gold medal.

He has been part of the Tanoa Group for the last seven years and this was an early home coming.

“I am very happy since I have won my first gold medal; I have been participating the past years but have only got to silver and bronze medal,” he said with a grin.

“My plan now is to work harder and become an Executive Chef some day,” Mr Sharma said.

He also won the Tanoa Culinary Find award.

Tanoa Group area general manager, Mathew Gillespie said: “We are trying to invest heavily and develop our people.

“Culinary was at the back of the house where nobody could see them and not getting recognition for what they do so we thought we could have our own Culinaire competition.

“We invest a lot of time and training and when they go to nationals they can really shine.”

Only Tanoa Rakiraki did not participate because of Tropical Cyclone Winston’s impact.

“Despite that all, our hotels from junior to head chefs have participated today. They are also recognised for their abilities.”

Edited by: FARZANA NISHA

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