Why We Must Invest in the Next Generation of Pastry Chefs — and Judges

Guest blog by Franciane Tartari, International Pastry Judge and Joint Head Judge for The Chefs’ Forum’s Student Pastry Chef of the Year Competition 2025.

As an international pastry judge, I’ve seen first-hand how the artistry and precision of pastry evolve year after year. But one thing remains constant: the need to nurture not only the next generation of pastry chefs, but also the future guardians of excellence in judging.
That’s why I’m thrilled to be leading the judges again this year, jointly, with my esteemed colleague and Pastry Hero, Martin Chiffers, for The Chefs’ Forum’s Student Pastry Chef of the Year 2025 . I’m even more delighted to welcome a true rising star in our field, Nicole McKenzie, to the judging panel as our first Junior Judge (or Rookie judge – A term we use in the industry).

Nicole, who won UK & Ireland’s Junior Chocolate Master title in 2018 and now runs her own boutique cake business, Kiomi Cakes, represents exactly what this competition is all about: talent, dedication, and a commitment to craft. Her journey from decorated young talent to respected professional makes her an incredible role model for our competitors — and now, as a Junior Judge, for fellow young professionals stepping into leadership roles in the industry.

Nicole said

“Being invited to judge The Chefs’ Forum’s Student Pastry Chef of the Year is honestly a dream come true. As a former competitor myself, I know exactly what it feels like to be on the other side of the table — the nerves, the excitement, the adrenaline. To now return as a junior judge and be part of this prestigious competition in a new role is such an honour. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to support and inspire the next generation, just like others did for me.”

We are so proud to have her on board for this year’s final, taking place on 13th May at West London College. As Martin Chiffers — fellow judge and International Pastry Authority — so eloquently put it:

“Nurturing young pastry judges is about passing on knowledge, refining palates, and shaping the future of our industry. By guiding and mentoring them, we help develop the skills and expertise that define excellence in our craft. As the future leaders of our industry, they will drive innovation, set standards, and inspire the next wave of talent.”

His words perfectly echo what we, alongside The Chefs’ Forum, deeply believe: competitions like this transcend the medals and scores. They are living classrooms—spaces where mentorship, dialogue, and growth flourish. For the young chefs, they are springboards. For us, the judges and mentors, they are responsibilities and opportunities to shape the future.

Judging is never just about numbers. It’s about nurturing potential, upholding excellence, and giving feedback that fuels ambition. That’s why we must invest in the next generation of judges too—welcoming them in, guiding them with purpose, and preparing them to lead with the same care and clarity we expect in the kitchen.

The UK Student Pastry Chef of the Year is more than a celebration of emerging talent—it is a beacon for what our industry can achieve when wisdom and youth come together. As we honour the rising stars, we also empower ten seasoned professionals to lead not just with their eyes, but with their hearts—judging with integrity, and teaching others to do the same.

Because the future of pastry doesn’t just happen. We craft it—one young chef, and one wise judge, at a time.