The representatives of the participating technical universities in the second edition of Joy Prime’s Big Chef Tertiary culinary contest have been officially unveiled.

Two students, totaling eighteen, are to represent their schools in this year’s competition.

The contenders were selected from nine technical universities in Ghana, including Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University in Wa, Bolgatanga Technical University, Tamale Technical University, Kumasi Technical University, Koforidua Technical University, Takoradi Technical University, Cape Coast Technical University, Accra Technical University, and the reigning champions, Ho Technical University.

They are expected to battle it out in kitchen throughout thirteen episodes to clinch the ultimate prize for the season.

Officially unveiled on the Joy Prime channel on Friday, September 20, all contestants are enthused about the competition. 

Dignitaries who graced the occasion include representatives from the Ghana TVET Service, Ghana Tourism Authority, Ghana Chefs Association and sponsors of the season. Songstress Lamisi, Lekzy Decomic and Militant Dance Family also lighted up the event with some performances.  

Representing Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University from the Upper West region are Carolina and Beatrice. They are specialized in homey, rustic dishes that evoke nostalgia and are passionate about traditional cooking.

From Bolgatanga Technical University in the Upper East region are Mabel and Baraka. They are adventurous and love to blend culinary traditions.

Also representing Tamale Technical University are Philemon and Harriette. With their passion for blending diverse flavours and techniques, they create a harmonious fusion that tells a story on every plate.

Kumasi Technical University constitute an all-boys squad Emmanuel and Isaac. This team celebrate cuisines across the world and each of them represent different culture, combining local recipies with modern twist.

From the Central Region, Cape Coast Technical University is represented by Elizabeth and Linda. With a desire for spices across the globe, the two create bold flavours that tell a story and aims to showcase the magic of spices in every bite.

Constituting Koforidua Technical University are Kerberson and Helena. Speedy and efficient, the team focus on delicious meals that can be made in a flash. Their clever use of ingredients ensures that no flavor is sacrificed in the name of time.

Takoradi Technical University is represented by Joseph and Emmanuel. The duo balances sweet and savory flavours expertly and are ready to impress with their innovations.

Representing Accra Technical University are Theophilus and Iddrisu. Bringing the heat, the two excel at outdoor cooking. Their smoky flavours and grill perfection are sure to impress both judges and the audience.

The reigning champions, Ho Technical University is represented by King Jones and Sherifatu. They are best known for their exquisite cake and artisanal sauces that elevate any dining experience. With a keen eye for flavor, pairing and passion for creativity, they craft cakes that burst in unique flavour combinations.

The judges for the season are;

Samuel Anaman, an award-winning Executive Chef and lead consultant with Anaman Hospitality Consult popularly known as the Grandpa Chef. With in-depth knowledge in hospitality and customer service, Chef Anaman has over fifteen years of experience in Hospitality and Customer Service, Chef Sam has over 15 years’ experience backed by relevant qualifications, first-hand skills in Culinary, Hospitality Management, Food Safety Management Systems, Menu and Recipe Development. He is bent on redefining the industry and improving the performance of a business that provides food, beverages, accommodation and offer assistance with events in the hospitality industry. Being tagged as the mean judge, Chef Anaman is a Celebrity Chef with different shows with standard operational procedures. He is currently based and working with Teesside International Airport, UK and has flown down just for Big Chef tertiary, season two.

Rafiatu Yussif, currently the 'Chef de Cuisine' at Hallmark Café and has about 18years of experience in the Food Industry. Chefess Raff draws her inspiration for cooking from Northern and Chinese cultures which influences her style in culinary with special ingredients. She has a unique way of her recipe fusions to make tasty and healthy dishes.  Rafiatu has great love for Art which made her pursue Arts and Interior Designs in her academic journey. She displays these arts in the way she plates, toss and turns her ingredients. This is what sparked a special signature cuisine called "Fufu Alveoli" as one of the unique recipes at Hallmark Café made by her with local seasonal harvest as her signature approach in creating new dishes. Chefess Raff specializes in Seafood but based on her current love for Vegan foods, she looks forward to involving Vegan Foods and recipes in the near future.

Rejoice Asabagna, a Nutrition Officer at the Ghana Health Service. She is committed to improving community health through evidence-based nutrition strategies, capacity building, and advocacy particularly for vulnerable populations. A result-oriented nutrition officer with 3 years work experience in public health and nutrition programs in Ghana. Her expertise in food science, coupled with her warm approach, makes her a perfect judge for Big Chef Tertiary, where she’ll ensure contestants balance flavor with nutrition.

With the dynamic and fun-loving Michelle Agyekum as host, this season promises an exciting blend of energy and her exceptional presenting skills. 

As the competition kick starts on Sunday, September 22, all representatives are braced to exhibit exceptional culinary prowess and dazzle the judges at the end of the first episode. Tune in to Joy Prime this and every Sunday at 5 p.m. to experience a whirlwind of mixed emotions as the battle begins.

Meanwhile, voting have commenced officially and members of all competing schools are permitted to vote for their delegates to sustain them in the contest. Dial *711*60# and follow the procedure to vote for your favourite school.

The season 2 of Big Chef Tertiary is brought to you by Fortune, introducing a delicious all-purpose margarine and Frytol Cooking Oil. It is sponsored by Hallmark Café, Chefware, Indomie, D33d3w Spices, Kivo Pepper, Enterprise Advantage Points Endpoints, and Get Rewarded, Ecobank and supported by Adansi Travels, Western Serene Atlantic Hotel, Volta Serene Hotel, Miklin Hotels, and Gariba Lodge.