Chef shares message of diversity

Windy Wulandari Binti Anif in Miss Galaxy Australia 2020. Photo taken in 2020, used by permission.

Windy Wulandari, a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef and pageant queen, has a personal message to share that diversity in all things (including food) is beautiful.

Le Cordon Bleu trained professional chef Windy Wulandari Binti Anif is an Indonesian/Afghanistan contestant in the Queensland finals for Miss World Australia 2020. Windy hopes to use her pageant influence to showcase Indonesian cuisine and culture, and share the message that diversity in all things (including food) is beautiful.

With a Grand Diplôme from Le Cordon Bleu Sydney, Windy stepped straight into her role as Commis Chef at Hamilton Island Resort after graduating. Juggling a blossoming modelling career paid off, Windy is now competing in Miss World 2020 Queensland state title in June, and if successful, will enter the national finals.

What attracts you to participating in Miss World?
I was born in Jakarta and my heritage is half Indonesian/half Afghanistan. For me, the Miss World pageant is an opportunity to share the message that diversity is a strength. With my heritage, I don’t fit the stereotype of the fair skinned, tall, skinny model at all, and it hasn't stopped me trying to achieve my dreams.

Who has been your biggest supporter?
My Dad! My mum wanted me to be a lawyer or doctor, but in the end, she supported my decision to follow my culinary passion.

What did you cherish about your time at Le Cordon Bleu Australia?
The best thing about Le Cordon Bleu is the amazing chefs and lecturers, most of them are famous in their own right for winning awards around the world. I also enjoyed friendships with people from many different cultures.

Who inspired you to pursue a career in culinary arts?
I know it sounds a bit 'cheesy', but I was inspired to be a chef as a young girl, by the animated film 'Ratatouille'. I just fell in love with cooking and the dream of going to Le Cordon Bleu in Paris.

What are some highlights from your career?
Working with the amazing George Calombaris (MasterChef Australia) at a huge charity event. In the pageantry world, coming fourth in Miss Galaxy Australia 2020, and winning People’s Choice Award. I've worked at five-star establishments Sheraton Port Douglas, Hamilton Island Resorts, and Qantas First Class Lounge, Sydney International Airport.

What are your culinary career dreams?
My ultimate dream is to work at Australia’s best restaurant, Attica and work with Australia’s best chefs. I hope to open my own restaurant one day, travel around the world and host a TV food series.

As an international student, what did you love most about Australia?
I've always felt accepted in Australia, it is multicultural, with the best cities for students to live in and one of the best education systems in the world. Australia is my second home, especially now that I have residency. I feel lucky to have studied at Le Cordon Bleu, one of the world's most prestigious culinary arts schools.