Meet the Candidate: William MORDIDO
William Mordido is the 2nd youngest of a family of seven. His family arrived in New Zealand from the Philippines when he was five, making him a 1.5 generation Filipino-Kiwi.
He completed is culinary training through the apprentice scheme at Auckland’s Sky City.
His drive and ambition led him to start BUKO, a Pop-Up restaurant that has held exclusive events in Auckland, Melbourne, and Fiji. Our flavours are typically in the Asia Pacific region, with a special focus on the Filipino and NZ ingredients.
William recognises the high level of commitment required to participate at Bocuse d’Or. Having been through several rigorous training programmes to prepare for the international stage, such as:
- San Pellegrino Young Chef of the Year
- International Jeunes Chef Rotisseurs Competition
- NZ Hans Bueschkens Young Chef Challenge
- Restaurant Association NZ Chef of the Year
- WorldSkills
Currently, William is the Culinary Standards Manager at Air New Zealand.
He feels now is the right time to tackle Bocuse d’Or!
Meet the Commis: Szren HAMBERGER
Szren is 20 years old and has been working in kitchens since she was 15. Szren grew up in Northland, New Zealand and is currently completing her apprentice at the Park Hyatt, Auckland as a demi pastry chef.
Szren has worked alongside a few leading NZ chefs at various events and even as an assistant on a TV cooking show. To her credit has also competed in several local culinary competitions.