Students from Ulster University’s Department of Hospitality Tourism and Events Management have delivered an outstanding medal haul at IFEX 2026, with multiple gold awards and “Best in Class” titles secured at Northern Ireland’s premier hospitality and foodservice showcase.
Held at the Eikon Exhibition Centre from 24–26 February 2026, IFEX Northern Ireland is the region’s leading biennial trade event for the food, drink, retail and hospitality sectors. The exhibition attracts thousands of industry professionals and showcases the latest innovations in catering equipment, specialty food and hospitality services. A major highlight of the event is the prestigious Salon Culinaire competition, where chefs and hospitality students compete live in front of industry judges.
Standout Gold Winners
Ulster University students achieved exceptional success across a range of high-profile categories, with several claiming the competition’s top honours:
- Northern Ireland Chef of the Year
Sophie Smith – Gold, Best in Class - Student Culinarian of the Year
Ellen Morewood – Gold, Best in Class - All Ireland Young Pastry Chef of the Year
Marija Kusaite – Gold, Best in Class - NI Cook Serve Team – Gold, Best in Class
Grace Campbell
Jonathan Brown
Sophie McKenzie
Taniesha Clark
Further Medal Success
The University’s success extended across multiple specialist categories:
- Larder – Vegetable Cuts
Ieuen McLean – Gold, Best in Class - Plant-Based Cuisine
Enya Gallagher – Gold - Food Photography
Lazlo Olah – Multiple medals - World Cuisine – Sustainable Practice
Alex Marija Saniya – Silver medal
“Competitions such as IFEX test far more than technical ability. They demand confidence, communication, adaptability and the courage to put your work up for scrutiny in front of industry leaders.
"What we saw from our students was leadership in action – they managed pressure, supported one another and demonstrated exceptional professionalism on a national stage. These are the stars of the future, and they represent the very best of what the next generation of hospitality talent in Northern Ireland looks like.
"We are incredibly proud of their achievements. They are not only winning medals; they are shaping the future of the hospitality industry here in Northern Ireland.”
Northern Ireland Chef of the Year 2026, Sophie Smith, described the award as a deeply personal milestone:
“This was my first senior competition and I still can’t quite believe I’m able to say I’ve been named Northern Ireland’s Chef of the Year 2026.
"The past two months have demanded discipline, focus and constant refinement as I developed my competition menu. I’m incredibly grateful to Chef Sean Owens, Michael Gillies, Jacqui Quinn and the entire Ulster University Culinary Arts Faculty for their guidance and support throughout.
"To be the youngest and first student to receive this title means a great deal. Yesterday would have been my nana’s birthday – she was the reason my love of cooking first flourished – and I thought of her often throughout this journey.”
The success reflects the strength of the University’s industry-focused approach, including the mentorship and guidance provided through the Academy Restaurant and dedicated teaching staff.
The achievement also underscores Ulster University’s commitment to developing not just capable graduates, but future leaders for Northern Ireland’s hospitality and food sectors.
Congratulations to all students who competed and represented Ulster University with distinction at IFEX 2026.
