England and Sri-Lanka win silver and bronze in the 12th IIHM International Young Chef Olympiad; But the language of food, and unity on a plate triumphed
After six days of competition, cultural exchange, and evaluation across multiple Indian cities, the 12th IIHM International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) 2026 concluded in Kolkata with a new world champion, Albania, the country of origin of one of Kolkata’s most loved and adored people, Mother Teresa. Enri Cuedari, the young chef from Instituti Kulinari Neranxi, lifted the Golden Trophy and was crowned with the golden toque in a competition that witnessed the largest congregation of young chefs in the world
England, the winner of YCO 2025, emerged second with Dominic Thomas Grundy of Westminster – Capital City College receiving the silver trophy.
The second runner up was the island nation of Sri Lanka lifting the bronze trophy, proudly represented by Vidanagamage Rumira Reshan Piyasiri of the Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management, completing a podium that reflected the high standards and global diversity of the competition
India, represented by IIHM Kolkata’s Kotamsetti Satya Teja, performed brilliantly in Round 1 of the competition catapulting him to to the coveted grand final of the top ten countries.
The Olympiad brought together student chefs from 40 countries, making it the largest competition of its kind for young culinary professionals. Conceived in India and now recognised internationally, YCO has grown into a multi-city platform that combines competitive cooking with structured learning and cultural exchange.
The Top 10 finalists represented a wide geographical spread, were selected after progressing through multiple rounds designed to test not only culinary technique, but also time management, decision-making, teamwork, and composure under pressure, earning their places through skill, integrity, and an unmistakable respect for both tradition and innovation.
