Aziza young
Dr. Aziza Young, also known as Chef Z, is a multifaceted professional with a deep passion for both culinary arts and mental health. She began her culinary journey at a young age, helping her Pop-pop’s catering company by the age of 12. Her formal culinary education took place at Montgomery County Technical School during high school. Chef Z’s culinary talents were showcased on a national stage in 2014 when she appeared on Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen with Chef Gordon Ramsay, which launched her into the spotlight of Philadelphia’s culinary scene.
In 2017, she earned second place in Reality Rally’s Celebrity Chef Cook Off, followed by multiple Culinary Excellence Certificates from the Black Chefs Association. Her People’s Choice Award-winning Short Rib Lasagna in 2018 led to the opening of her first restaurant, LAVI BYOB, which quickly gained recognition, including accolades such as Best New Restaurant and a spot in the Top 24 Best Restaurants in the Western Suburbs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chef Z displayed her compassion by working with fellow chefs to provide meals for those in need, resulting in her founding and establishing The People’s Kitchen in South Philadelphia. She is also actively involved with the nonprofit Everybody Eats Philly, which she and her four chef friends founded in 2020 after the George Floyd riots decimated the city. Dr. Aziza also serves as the culinary director for The Community Grocer, an upcoming corner store providing healthy options for government food benefit recipients.
In addition to her culinary achievements, Dr. Aziza holds a doctorate degree in metaphysical science. Last year, she shifted her focus to helping children and young adults cultivate a healthy mindset. She began substituting in both Philadelphia and Montgomery County schools and is also pursuing further education in neuropsychology, reflecting her ongoing commitment to understanding and supporting mental health. Her ultimate goal is to open a mental health center dedicated to serving children and young adults.