Bavlyn Muktar wins gold at chefs competition in Nadi
Fiji National University (FNU) student Bavlyn Muktar bagged herself a gold medal at a recent annual chefs competition in Nadi.
The 33-year-old participated in the Live Cake Decoration category at the FMF Salon Culinaire 2022, Class 12 competition held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi. Originally from Sigatoka, the mother-of-two said it was difficult being away from her two children while studying in Suva.
“I am a mother of two wonderful children, and my husband has been extremely supportive in taking care of them throughout my studies and a full-time job. After classes on Friday, I rush to the West to spend quality time with them,” Ms Muktar said.
“The toughest times were not being there when they had celebrations and events at school or when they would call me during their functions.”
Ms Muktar is currently studying for a Certificate in Baking and Patisserie (Level 3) programme at the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS). Speaking about the competition, she said: “It was a tough competition, with some of the industry’s best, and the win was humbling and a learning experience.” Ms Muktar said she gained vast experience from renowned resorts in Fiji as well as the Cook Islands. “I am the first in my family to take up the profession. I became involved in the profession to start work somewhere. I then worked for five-star resorts, such as ShangriLa Fijian, Warwick, Outrigger, and Aitutaki Island Resort.”
She was among six students from FNU’s Nasese campus that took part in the FMF Salon Culinaire 2022 competition.
College of Business, Hospitality and Tourism Studies (CBHTS) Dean, Professor Arun Elias said it was a great feat for CBHTS that all six students from Nasese campus won medals.
“CBHTS is a dual-sector business school and hospitality and tourism studies play a very important part in our TVET stream of learning,” Professor Elias said.
“Education is about broadening your mind, and I hope students, that we have given you an opportunity to broaden your mind.” Hospitality and Tourism Studies Acting Head of School Aman Narayan said it was a big achievement for the school.
“This competition involves chefs from hotels, resorts and universities from all over Fiji that take part to showcase their talents and artwork,” Mr Narayan said.
“Our chefs took part in the Local category, which involved chefs from the local industry, and this has provided them with exposure to the talent within their industry.”
One gold medal, three silver medals and two bronze medals were won by students from the Nasese campus; whilst nine medals were awarded to students from the Namaka campus.
Fiji National University (FNU) is now accepting applications for Semester 1, 2023 studies.
Students interested in studying for a Certificate in Baking and Patisserie (Level 3) programme or other TVET courses at FNU can apply now for one of the 4600 placements available through the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS).
Eligible students must obtain a pass in Year 12, Certificate I, Certificate II or secure a final offer letter for any Certificate Level III, IV or Diploma level 5 programmes offered at FNU.