"I’m proud that we brought the regional trophy home."
Two colleagues from the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL)’s Retail Catering team have made it through to the final of the NHS Chef of the Year 2025 competition.
They will be one of just eight teams from across England who will be part of the contest’s final this October.
Retail Catering Production and Development Manager, Eddie Makuwaza and Retail Catering Assistant, Akhil Antony impressed judges at the Midlands heat where they have to produce a low-carbon, three-course meal within a budget of £6 – £8.
The menu had to include an allergen-free course, and one which was plant-based – including a hot main meal, and a dessert with 50 per cent fruit content.
Eddie Makuwaza said: “It’s a great honour to participate in this competition, and I’m proud that we brought the regional trophy home to Leicester. We’ve had great support from our management team and especially our colleague Ismail Badat, who was also our driver, cheerleader and provider of moral support.”
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