Elena Duggan is a chef, educator, food storyteller and food systems advocate, and winner of MasterChef Australia 2016. Her work sits at the intersection of food, people and place, connecting communities with ingredients, producers and practical food skills.

Through Straight To The Source, Elena works to strengthen connections between Australian farmers, fishers, growers, producers, chefs, hospitality and the wider community. An experienced farmers’ market guide, she has also developed and delivered food education and culinary programs across Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland, including the Unity Challenge and Kitchen Challenge.

As an HSC Hospitality teacher at a School for Specific Purpose, Elena creates inclusive, industry-relevant learning experiences for young people with diverse learning, communication and support needs, building confidence, independence and practical skills alongside pathways into hospitality.

Elena is passionate about Australian native foods and the broader knowledge systems surrounding them, committed to lifelong learning and listening and to their role in a more sustainable and culturally connected food future.

Her career spans television, podcasting and live events, including hosting My Market Kitchen and Appetite for Change, with a focus on inclusive ingredients, dietary diversity, joyful eating and the people behind Australia’s food culture.

Warm, curious and practical, Elena brings together provenance, sustainability, culinary creativity and human connection in everything she does.