My name is Najee. I am from Panjshir in Afghanistan and grew up in a big family in the country’s capital city, Kabul. I would spend my time walking and exploring the historical places in the city and became interested in art and architecture. I started drawing when I was very young and my work depicts traditional life in Afghanistan. I always see art in food. When I am cooking, I don’t just consider the taste.

Food has to look good and I spend time designing its presentation. I realised that I had a talent for cooking when I was a teenager when friends invited me to their homes – not as a guest, but to cook for them! I am very proud of Afghan food. We don’t have a lot of ingredients but the care we take in preparing food makes it one of the tastiest cuisines in the world. In my class, I have used my art to create a feast for your tastebuds and your eyes.