Who is chef William Joshua MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 contestant?

This week sees the final round of heats in this year’s MasterChef: The Professionals 2024, which next airs on Monday, November 18 at 9pm.

Introducing William Joshua, junior sous chef at Hanway Place in London.

William moved from Jakarta to London last year, working for the Hakkasan group in both locations. His specialty is in Chinese cuisine.

NAME

William Joshua

AGE

26

WHERE ARE YOU FROM/WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

William grew up in Indonesia with his parents and younger brother. Both sides of his family are Chinese, so a love for Chinese food has been prominent from an early age. He moved to the UK in 2023 and now lives in south east London.

CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

William studied a three-year Chinese Cookery course at the Sichuan Tourism University in Sichuan Province, China. During this course he interned at Intercontinental Century City in Chengdu and then at The Bridge by chef Andre.

In 2019, he started working for the Hakkasan group back home in Jakarta and has worked his way up from chef de partie to junior sous chef within the group, starting work in Dubai and then in 2023, moving to their Hanway Place restaurant in London.

WHO AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CHEF?

“When I was a kid, I loved to help my mother to cook for my entire family. During that time, I learned how to make it better and it became a passion of mine. I love art. I never stop trying to make something beautiful on the plate – so the dish is not only good for the eye, but also the taste.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF COOKING AND ANY INFLUENCES ON IT?

“My cooking style is all about modern Chinese cuisine. Through years of experimentation, I’ve had so many influences from different countries that I’ve been to. I’ve always had the passion to use different techniques and ingredients, that are rarely used in Chinese cooking, but still bring the pure instinct of taste that suits a wide range of preferences.”

WHY DID YOU WANT TO TAKE PART IN MASTERCHEF: THE PROFESSIONALS?

“Since I was in high school, I always dreamt of competing in MasterChef Indonesia but was too young to apply back then. I had no idea that in fact it would be in the UK that my dream would come true!

Joining MasterChef: The Professionals here in the UK, and having the support of my executive chef to take part, is absolutely amazing. As a passionate culinary lover, it is a great opportunity to be in the show. I would like to prove that I’m capable of competing with other talented chefs. I believe the pressure, along with comments from the judges, will sharpen my abilities and expand my knowledge.”

OUTSIDE OF COOKING WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

“When I’m not cooking, I love to play music such as guitar and piano. I also love to read, especially cookbooks. My girlfriend has now moved over to the UK too and is currently studying in Leeds, doing a Master’s in business. So, I go and see her as much as I can. We really enjoy exploring new restaurants and food together.”