Maria Bradford was born in Freetown, but has lived in London for many years. She is a very popular chef and has established herself as the visionary behind Shwen Shwen, a catering company specializing in Sierra Leonean and Afro-fusion cuisine.
In 2023, she made her debut as an author with the release of her cookbook, “Sweet Salone” – if you follow our newsletter, you’ll already know about her! She is part of the new generation of chefs spearheading the diffusion of creative West African cuisine in Europe and beyond.
Maria Bradford: A Culinary Journey Bridging Cultures
Maria Bradford’s culinary journey is a captivating blend of her Sierra Leonean heritage, formal training at Leiths School of Food and Wine, and a relentless passion for sharing the diverse flavors of Sierra Leone with the world. Her story is one of cultural connection and culinary innovation.
Nurturing a Culinary Identity
Maria’s culinary journey began in the vibrant landscapes of Sierra Leone, where her childhood experiences with traditional dishes laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Growing up in Freetown, she developed a deep connection with the local cuisine, which inspired her to pursue a career in cooking.“I was born and raised in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. I have many fond childhood memories, mainly related to my fascination with age-old African recipes. Discovering fresh, local, flavorsome ingredients and cooking for my family and friends fueled my enduring love for the taste of home. This passion has led me to turn my lifelong love of food into a fulfilling business, bringing the reinvention of African dishes to a broader audience. This is my calling, and I love it!” – Maria Bradford
Crafting Culinary Expertise
Maria further honed her culinary skills by attending Leiths School of Food and Wine in the United Kingdom, an award-winning institution renowned for its comprehensive programs. While formal education refined her techniques, Maria emphasizes that she learned how to cook in Sierra Leone.
A Cultural Ambassador of Sierra Leonean Cuisine
Driven by a deep love for her cultural roots, Maria founded Shwen Shwen, a platform dedicated to showcasing the rich and diverse cuisine of Sierra Leone. Shwen Shwen acts as a cultural bridge, offering dining, catering, an online store, and “Sweet Salone: Recipes from the Heart of Sierra Leone,” which presents original recipes and aspects of Sierra Leonean food history.
Recognizing Culinary Prowess
Maria has received numerous accolades for her contributions to culinary arts. National Geographic has acknowledged her role in sharing the distinct tastes of Sierra Leonean food. Foodism magazine celebrated her passion for exploring and expanding Sierra Leonean cuisine. The Independent commended her efforts to introduce these flavors to a broader audience, contributing to London’s cultural tapestry.
Creating a Culinary Legacy
Maria is recognized as Salone’s ambassador of food, heritage, and culture. Her vision is for Freetown, Sierra Leone, to become a Culinary Capital. Until then, she continues to work with stakeholders to elevate Sierra Leone’s position on the global food map. As a contributor to Great British Chefs, Maria shares her expertise both in the UK and globally, further solidifying her reputation as a culinary innovator.Maria’s journey from Sierra Leone to becoming a culinary ambassador demonstrates the power of food to connect people across cultures. For more information, visit www.shwenshwen.com.