Professional Summary
Dr. Chef Rifka Rafi is an award-winning Sri Lankan culinary artist, food and nutrition specialist, and menu creator whose inspiring trajectory reflects resilience, exceptional creativity, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. Hailing from a rural village in Badulla, Sri Lanka, Chef Rifka overcame significant economic obstacles and personal loss following the passing of her father in 2023. Relocating to Colombo to pursue her passion, she built a thriving career in the hospitality industry, establishing herself as a respected professional and a powerful advocate for aspiring chefs, women, and youth in gastronomy. She currently serves as the Treasurer of the Chefs’ Unity of Sri Lanka (CUSL).
Professional Experience & Background
Chef Rifka has honed her craft across Sri Lanka’s dynamic restaurant and hospitality sector, gaining hands-on expertise in food preparation, restaurant operations, and quality food service:
- V Eleven One Pure Vegetarian Hotel (Sri Lanka)
- Taste and Theory Restaurant
Her professional scope encompasses advanced culinary arts, creative food presentation and plating, food and nutrition, comprehensive menu planning and development, and innovative recipe creation.
Leadership & Community Contributions
As the Treasurer of the Chefs’ Unity of Sri Lanka (CUSL), Chef Rifka plays a vital administrative and developmental role within the organization. Through CUSL, she actively contributes to:
- Coordinating culinary initiatives, professional events, and community-building programs for chefs.
- Fostering collaboration and professional development across the Sri Lankan culinary landscape.
- Mentoring and encouraging emerging culinary talent, with a dedicated focus on empowering women and young professionals entering the hospitality sector.
Honorary Academic Recognition
- Honorary Doctor of Gastronomic Science (Awarded July 25, 2026): A monumental milestone recognizing her dedication, expertise, and growing influence within the culinary field.
Awards & Distinguished Achievements
Chef Rifka’s talent and perseverance have earned her numerous prestigious accolades and competitive honors:
- Mastermind Awards Winner 2026
- Sri Lanka Abhimani Keerthi Sri Deshamanya (Awarded June 25, 2026)
- Sri Lanka Abhimani Keerthi Sri Vishwa Bhani (Awarded May 24, 2026)
- First Place — Bairaha Culinary Competition
- Best Presentation Award — Bairaha Culinary Competition
Vision & Mission
Dr. Chef Rifka Rafi views food not merely as nourishment, but as an expressive medium of culture, knowledge, and care. Her life and career stand as a testament to the belief that personal background does not dictate future success. Moving forward, her mission is to expand the boundaries of her culinary career, advance the standards of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry, and continue inspiring the next generation of chefs to pursue their dreams against all odds.
