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Meet our experts
OUR JURY HAVE MADE THEIR CHOICE. AND THE WINNERS ARE...
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Rajiv is an experienced head Chef with over 10 years work experience in Dubai's top fine-dining restaurants. From Gault & Millau awarded restaurant, Michelin Green Star and MENA's top 50 Best Restaurant, everywhere Rajiv works, he infuses excellence in food preparation, execution, presentation, and impeccable taste.
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Christine Assouad is a serial entrepreneur with over 27 years of experience, particularly in the Food & Beverage sector, where she launched renowned brands such as Dunkin’ in Lebanon and Semsom. As a strategic advisor and board member, Christine has helped drive growth and development across multiple markets, including the UAE, KSA, and Europe. With a passion for mentoring, she has supported over 100 female entrepreneurs through her Empowering Tribe program and thousands with Her Book Club. Christine's extensive education graduating from AUB, McGill, Harvard , her experience, her board positions, and her role on the YPO Global Retail Network, have established her as a prominent leader in retail and business strategy
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Leading the award-winning catering division of DWTC, Georg is a brilliant Director of Culinary Operations. Born in Germany, Chef Georg Hessler has a three decade-long career spanning four continents and senior level positions in three Michelin starred-restaurants, five-star hotels and resorts and world-leading cruise line brands. He is responsible for the overall culinary operations, and leads a 148-strong team of chefs representing a world map of nationalities, knowledge and gastronomic inspiration, working hand-in-hand with DWTC’s venues services management team.
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A highly dedicated and enthusiastic individual who is thoroughly committed to succeeding at the highest level. Holding a Bachelor of Science (hons) degree in International Hospitality Management from Emirates Academy in Dubai, Raha has been living in the UAE for the last 22 years. He gained a vast amount of hospitality experience, both in terms of strategy, operations and expertise. Raha has been involved for the past 14 years in the foodservice consultancy and manufacturing business.
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Mariam's Caffeinated CV:
- Certified Q Arabic Grader | Food Technologis
- 2023 UAE National Barista Champion & 3rd World Cezve/Ibrik Champion
- 2022 UAE National Cezve/Ibrik Champion
- 2021 UAE National Brewers Cup Champion
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