Winner will appear in Taste of Home magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and take home $25,000
Passionate home chef who loves cooking & baking. I entered before, didn’t win—but showing up was my first victory, and I’m back stronger!
Want to learn more about our competition?
Learn MoreWant to be notified if their position changes?
Receive Text UpdatesMy signature dishes are pasta and salmon because I enjoy creating flavorful meals that people can enjoy and remember. I also love making different desserts and trying new ideas to make them unique and creative. Cooking allows me to express myself, and I enjoy combining flavors and presentation to make each dish special.
Who is your culinary inspiration?My culinary inspiration is myself. I’m inspired by how far I’ve come with my cooking and baking skills and how much I continue to grow creatively. Being able to turn my ideas into delicious dishes and treats motivates me to keep pushing myself to learn more and improve. Starting my own food business and seeing people enjoy what I create reminds me why I love cooking so much. Every challenge and accomplishment inspires me to keep going and become even better.
What would you do with the $25,000?If I won the $25,000, I would invest it into my bakery business by purchasing a shed and turning it into a storefront where I can grow my brand and serve more customers. It would help me create a space of my own to continue doing what I love and expanding my business. I would also use part of the money to give back to my community and help people in need because being able to support others is very important to me.
Vote for Samyiah D to be the next Favorite Chef while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting the James Beard Foundation and their mission to lead chefs and the broader culinary industry toward a new standard of excellence.