Phnom penh: One of Cambodia’s most prominent chefs, Chef Mariya Un Noun, is gaining international recognition through her presence in Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe and world-class culinary destinations across Southeast Asia. Her efforts are helping to elevate Khmer cuisine and showcase Cambodian culinary talent on a global platform.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, despite her international acclaim, Chef Mariya continues to devote her time to Cambodia, mentoring local chefs and sharing her experiences to promote Khmer cuisine and inspire the next generation of Cambodian culinary professionals. Her journey from poverty to culinary prestige began with vocational training provided by Smiling Gecko Cambodia, a non-governmental organisation focused on sustainable development.
Dr. h.c. Hannes Schmid, co-founder of Smiling Gecko Cambodia, recalled that Mariya showed incredible cooking gifts from the start. After demonstrating exceptional talent, she was selected for advanced training in Switzerland, where she refined her skills and built her reputation in elite kitchens, he added. Chef Mariya has presented her Khmer culinary creations to world-renowned chefs such as Franck Giovannini and Andreas Caminada, earning admiration for her innovative interpretations of traditional Cambodian dishes.
She has also led culinary programmes in Singapore and Bangkok, introducing Khmer flavours to diverse international audiences. Mr. Ngon Sokleap, who left a legal career to co-found the Smiling Gecko Cambodia, describes Mariya’s success as a powerful example of what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity.
As founders of Smiling Gecko Cambodia, Mr. Ngon Sokleap and Dr. h.c. Hannes Schmid are committed to continuing to invest in Cambodian youth, helping them build sustainable careers through vocational education and community development. With more success stories like Mariya’s, the organisation hopes to become a self-sustaining model that empowers Cambodians to rise out of poverty and pursue their dreams.