Lana in MasterChef: The Professionals 2026, Heat 8 / BBC
Age: 29
Lives: Kidderminster, Worcestershire with her husband
What is your background in the industry?
“Cooking has been a constant throughout my life. I grew up helping in the kitchen at home, and that early exposure became the foundation of everything I do now. I took catering as a GCSE, then trained for two years at catering college in Redditch before securing my first professional role at The Elms Hotel.
“Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of kitchens that each shaped me in different ways. Fishmore Hall stands out as especially memorable — it challenged and developed me both technically and creatively. During MasterChef filming, I was working at the Prince Rupert Hotel, a venue known for classic flavours with a twist. Today, I’m part of the team at The Crown in Martley, a modern gastropub with a café attached, where local and seasonal produce shape the menu and the philosophy of the kitchen.”
How would you describe your cooking style?
“I love taking classic dishes and flavour combinations and putting my own twist on them. I’m also drawn to experimenting with ingredients I’ve never used before. That sense of curiosity keeps my approach evolving and pushes me to create dishes that feel familiar yet fresh.”
What are three ingredients you couldn’t live without?
“Salt, butter, garlic.”
Why did you take part in the show?
“I wanted to build confidence — not just in my cooking, but in myself. I wanted to learn, push my limits, have fun, and discover more about who I am as a chef. Taking part in MasterChef felt like the right step toward growth, both personally and professionally.”
The new series of MasterChef: The Professionals is ongoing on BBC One and iPlayer.
