Justin Narayan
Justin Narayan | |
|---|---|
| Born | Sydney, Australia |
| Occupation(s) | Television chef, youth pastor |
| Known for | Winning MasterChef Australia 2021 |
Justin Narayan is an Australian television chef and youth pastor with Fijian-Indian ancestry. He gained widespread acclaim after winning MasterChef Australia 2021, receiving a prize of $250,000.
Early life and family
Born in Sydney, Narayan comes from a family with roots in Fiji and India. He developed an interest in cooking at the age of 13, inspired by the culinary heritage passed down through his family.
Career
Before participating in MasterChef Australia, Narayan served as a youth pastor and was involved with the organisation Try Alpha.
In addition, he appeared in the 2018 short film titled Rash Decision.
MasterChef
Narayan reached the final 24 contestants on MasterChef Australia 2021 and ultimately won the competition on 13 July 2021, securing the $250,000 prize. His culinary approach combined Indian flavors with global influences, presenting dishes such as curry broth with poached fish, Indian-style chicken tacos, and traditional Indian chicken curry.
During the final round, chef Peter Gilmore challenged Narayan and fellow finalists to replicate two of his signature dishes within a limited timeframe. Narayan achieved the highest score of 125 points, narrowly edging out Pete Campbell who scored 124 points, and Kishwar Chowdhury who earned 114 points.
He became only the second winner of Indian heritage in MasterChef Australia, following Sashi Cheliah, a former prison officer.
After MasterChef
Post-victory, Narayan announced plans to use his $250,000 winnings to pursue further education and to establish a food truck or restaurant that highlights Indian cuisine reflective of his cultural background. Additionally, he intends to dedicate a portion of his earnings toward initiatives focused on providing nourishment and education for children living in India’s slums.
Narayan has expressed a commitment to collaborate with Vision Rescue, a Mumbai-based non-governmental organisation founded in 2004 that supports vulnerable children through nutritional programs, healthcare services, educational opportunities, sports activities, and assistance for women impacted by human trafficking.
In May 2023, Narayan revealed that he had donated the majority of his prize money to charitable efforts while investing the remainder.