The Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards (MFDHA) has proudly announced the return of The Burnt Chef Projectas its official charity partner for 2026, marking another meaningful collaboration as the awards celebrate their 9th anniversary.
Recognised as one of the most important dates in the regional hospitality calendar, the MFDHA continues to shine a spotlight not only on excellence across the sector, but also on the wellbeing of the people who power it. By partnering once again with The Burnt Chef Project, the awards reaffirm their commitment to raising awareness around mental health in hospitality — an issue that remains more important than ever.
The Burnt Chef Project works tirelessly to eradicate mental health stigma within the hospitality industry. Through education, training, and accessible support services, the organisation provides vital resources to individuals and businesses, helping to create healthier, more sustainable working environments across the sector.
Speaking on the renewed partnership, Ifraz Ahmed, co-founder of the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be partnering once again with The Burnt Chef Project. Hospitality is an industry built on passion, resilience and people — but behind the scenes, there are real challenges. It’s vital that we use our platform to not only celebrate success, but also support the wellbeing of those who make it all possible.”
Co-founder Anita Chumber added:
“The work The Burnt Chef Project does is truly inspiring and deeply needed within our industry. As we come together to celebrate the very best in food, drink and hospitality, it’s equally important that we raise awareness and contribute towards creating a more supportive and open culture around mental health.”
Matt Loughrey, Partnerships & Community Manager at The Burnt Chef Project, shared:
“We are truly honoured to once again be named charity partner for the Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards as the event marks its 9-year anniversary. MFDHA has become a powerful platform for recognising the exceptional talent, innovation and dedication that defines hospitality across the Midlands.
What makes these Awards especially meaningful to us, is their clear understanding that excellence and wellbeing go hand in hand. We cannot truly celebrate the very best of our industry without also championing the mental health of the people behind it. At The Burnt Chef Project, we work to eradicate mental health stigma in hospitality through education, training and support, and we’re incredibly grateful to partner with an event that shines a light on achievement, as well as the importance of creating healthier, more sustainable workplaces for our sector.”
The partnership will see The Burnt Chef Project take centre stage on the awards night, with opportunities to raise both awareness and vital funds to support their ongoing work.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 ceremony, organisers are encouraging the public and industry professionals alike to get involved and show their support.
Nominations for the 9th Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards are now open and will close on 8th May 2026.
Visit www.mfdhawards.co.uk to submit your nominations and help celebrate the individuals, teams and businesses that truly embody the spirit of hospitality.
The awards will take place on 22nd June 2026, bringing the industry together for an unforgettable evening of recognition, unity and celebration.
#MFDHA26 #MadeOfHospitality
