Pastry Chef, Aminath Hameed: Crafting Culinary Masterpieces

Words by Imthishal

The demanding world of gastronomy, quite reasonably, requires creativity, accuracy and passion. Traits that Aminath Hameed possesses without a doubt. With her determination, raw talent and knowledge this Pastry Chef has captivated the culinary scene in Maldives. Some of you may know her as a Pastry teacher, most of you may know her as FHAM’s Best Pastry Chef 2022, or from the countless awards she won throughout the years, in the Asian Pastry Cup, Hotel Asia and several others. More recently the local community recognises her from “Maldivian Patissier X Ell & Eve’s”, the first gourmet Patisserie to open up in the capital. Admittedly having a lasting impression on both taste buds and soul.

Embarking into adulthood after A-Levels, Aminath began studying accounting while working a part time job as a Corporate sales officer at Ooredoo Maldives. It was during this period of her life, she attended a Cake Decorating class, this immediately sparked an interest. Still in the fog, she is unaware of her full potential, nevertheless passion overcame her and she knew exactly what had to be done. Later on, she dropped her accounting course and her hobby slowly transformed into an online cake shop. While experimenting with recipes, flavors and ingredients, she created and sold a variety of cakes, making a name for herself in Male for roughly 4 years. However, in 2009 Aminath felt she wanted to become a professional Chef and began studying Culinary Arts in Winstone, Sri Lanka and Australia.

Once she was done with her education, she was eager to get into the workforce. In 2016, Aminath kickstarted her career by joining Conrad Maldives as a pastry intern; “with 12-14 hour shifts, it was hard, starting off as an intern the first few month all i did was cut fruits, set the buffet, scoop ice creams all day, i was questioning myself a lot.Then I realized that’s how everyone starts”. Contemplating her next step she asked her senior chef; “I would like to learn something, what else can i do?” .This simple action highlighted her determination to learn and do whatever it takes to triumph. Within a mere three months, she was offered a permanent position as a Commis Chef, marking the beginning of her venture into the hospitality industry. Over the course of two years at Conrad, Aminath had the privilege of working in both desserts and bakery, honing her skills and expanding her expertise. She highlights, “it was a very good learning experience”

Furthermore, she was part of the pre-opening team in Waldorf Astoria. Working as a Chocolatier for two years, each day brings forth fresh challenges and valuable opportunities for growth. Aminath emphasizes; “it was one of the best properties I have worked at. It felt like a dream” While working with the finest chocolate available globally, she picked up a wealth of knowledge and with continuous practice earned a reputation as an esteemed Chef. More significantly, she was responsible for inventing various chocolate masterpieces, creating special requests for VIP patrons, and meticulously handcrafting petit fours and bonbons served in the fine dining establishment at Waldorf.

Currently, Aminath works at Ritz-Carlton as Pastry chef for the past 2 ½ years. She elaborates; “I joined the pre-opening team here, it was quite hard since it was during the pandemic. We didn’t have much staff on board at the time, but it was another great learning experience. I had more responsibilities with the position so things were very different, but it was amazing”.

The newly opened outlet at SME Hub showcases an extensive array of delectable pastries.
The noteworthy establishment “Maldivian Patissier x Ell & Eves”, operated by Aminath Hameed, is a collaboration with her sibling, Soozan Hameed. With a bold rotational menu, this little pastry shop has become an overnight hit, attracting every sweet tooth in the Island. However, Aminath states the difficulties that come with a progressive menu “ it is hard convincing people to try a different dessert. A lot of Maldivians love chocolate desserts, people are scared to try new things, I think people are now more aware and embrace the new flavors. It’s very nice to be able to do that.” The captivating realm of chocolate and consistency inspires Aminath to strive for excellence in all her endeavors. One of her most loved creations is called the “Signature Rocher”, a perfect symphony of dark chocolate and passion fruit; “people doubt it at first but it is an amazing mix, whoever tries it loves it”.

Additionally, one principle Aminath seems to follow in her work is to “never compromise on quality”, something she truly comprehended from her mentor, the Executive Pastry Chef of Waldorf. Taking this into heart she states; “I only use premium quality ingredients. Even the chocolate I use is an Artisanal Belgian Chocolate, called Veliche”. Overall, Maldivian Patissier x Elle & Eves is quite simply “a place for people who want to have good pastry”.

What people seem to forget is that the kitchen is a hard environment to work in, it is demanding and highly challenging, therefore being passionate as a chef is crucial; ”I’ve seen so many interns come and go, but only very few people come with passion and they are the ones who last”. Further, Aminath emphasizes; “This career is not easy, you have to work hard and get along with your team, when people are from different cultures and countries you have to adapt and learn to love them, because in the kitchen they are your family”. It is clear that no amount of knowledge will guarantee a successful culinary career, there are a number of other skills you must sharpen.

The field of Culinary arts within Maldives has witnessed a remarkable transformation, particularly for women. They have emerged as influential figures in this traditionally male-dominated field, and this is exactly because of individuals like Aminath Hameed. Unconsciously spreading hope to young aspiring chefs of Maldives, showing them the possibilities that exist, breaking barriers and daring stereotypes.

As she continues to push boundaries in the art of pastry, Aminath Hameed serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs in Maldives. Her passion, talent, and unwavering commitment to her craft continue to shape the future of confection, ensuring that the art of pastry remains an ever-evolving and truly extraordinary experience.