The chef behind Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant KOL in London's Marylebone was recognised for 'inspiring a new generation of cooks, artisans and producers' and was the the only UK-based chef to feature on this year's list, which was announced at a live ceremony in Bilbao, Spain, last week.
Now in its second year, 50 Next celebrates people aged 35 and under from across the wider food and drink scene, from producers and educators to tech creators and activists. It also champions those over the age of 35 who have recently set out on a new career path.
A list but not a ranking, 50 Next specifically celebrates people, complementing the annual rankings of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and The World’s 50 Best Bars as well as the 50 Best regional restaurants and bars lists. It was formed through robust research and analysis by 50 Next and the internationally renowned Basque Culinary Center, following an overwhelming response to open calls for applications and nominations and a proactive scouting for candidates.
Building on the first edition of the list revealed in 2021, the second edition of 50 Next features people from 30 different territories across six continents.
The list is divided into seven categories: Gamechanging Producers; Tech Disruptors; Empowering Educators; Entrepreneurial Creatives; Science Innovators; Hospitality Pioneers and Trailblazing Activists.
Alongside Lastra, the Class of 2022 includes a wide range of ground-breaking individuals including: innovative thinkers Anusha Murthy and Elizabeth Yorke, who are sparking conversation around Indian food systems; Dinara Kasko, the Ukrainian cake-maker who started a pastry revolution; vertical farming advocate Jessica Naomi Fong, who is feeding Hong Kong with fresh local produce; Mmabatho Molefe, the chef empowering Black women and challenging misconceptions of indigenous cuisine, and Lefteris Arapakis, the fisherman tackling ocean pollution in Greece.
The youngest on the list is 22-year-old Mustapha Diyaol-Haqq, the Ghanaian coder leading the charge for agricultural innovation.
“We are delighted to announce the 50 Next Class of 2022 at a live ceremony, where we can celebrate the next generation of gastronomic leaders together and pay homage to their incredible achievements,” says William Drew, director of content for 50 Best.
“With the support of the Provincial Council of Biscay, Basque Government and the Basque Culinary Center, we are able to bring together this truly diverse group of young people and focus on nurturing talent and creating a platform for those fighting for a brighter future for gastronomy.
“We have no doubt that both the Class of 2021 and Class of 2022 will continue to do tremendous work in their various fields and we look forward to following their projects for many years to come.”