IWD 2025 - an interview with: Chef Maria Carranza

Tell us a little about your career journey leading to where you are now.

For me, the culinary world has never been just a career, it’s a calling. My journey officially began at 16 when I enrolled in university to study International Restaurant Administration, but in reality, my passion for food was ignited long before that. Growing up, I was lucky to have incredible role models in the kitchen—my mother and grandmother—both exceptional cooks who instilled in me a deep love for food.My professional path has taken me across Mexico, from the vibrant streets of Monterrey to the coastal charm of Cancún and the fast-paced energy of Mexico City. Eager to expand my horizons, I pursued international internships in the U.S. and Canada, gaining invaluable experience along the way. Then, at just 21, I took a leap of faith and moved to the United Arab Emirates, ready to make my mark.I started as a Commis 3 at Maya, one of the region’s pioneering Mexican restaurants. From there, my career unfolded through a series of roles—each bringing its own challenges and triumphs. I’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible mentors, but I’ve also had to navigate my fair share of obstacles. Through it all, I stayed resilient, refining my skills and staying true to my passion.Today, I am proud to lead the kitchen at Trader Vic’s in Hilton Dubai Jumeirah. It’s a place where I feel valued, supported, and inspired every day. My journey has been one of perseverance, growth, and unwavering dedication—a true testament to the power of passion in the ever-evolving world of gastronomy.

What does the International Women’s Day slogan “accelerate action” mean for you?

Progress isn’t just about having conversations about taking meaningful action. True equality in the industry won’t happen by waiting for change; it requires continuous effort and bold steps forward. It’s not enough for women to simply have a seat at the table—they need to be heard, respected, and given the opportunity to lead.The momentum must be relentless, the pressure consistent, so that we keep breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Real change is long overdue, and it’s up to us to push it forward.

How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?

We talk a lot about women supporting women, but the real question is—are we truly putting that into practice? It’s time for a shift in mindset. We need to move beyond unconscious rivalry and foster a culture of empathy, support, and loyalty.When women uplift one another, it creates a ripple effect of empowerment. Success shouldn’t be a solo journey—it should be shared. By actively encouraging and championing each other, we ensure that opportunities grow, not just for ourselves, but for the women who come after us.

How important is diversity across senior leadership teams? 

Balance is essential in all aspects of life, and leadership is no different. A strong team isn’t built on one perspective alone—it thrives on diversity. When feminine and masculine energies are in harmony, they complement each other, creating a dynamic and supportive environment where innovation and growth flourish.Diversity in leadership brings a wider range of ideas, experiences, and approaches, ultimately making businesses more adaptable, resilient, and successful.

Senior leadership: 26%, C-suite: 19%, 1 in 4: Chief-level. These are the percentages and numbers of female leaders in our industry. What do these numbers represent to you?

These numbers highlight a stark reality—women are still underrepresented at the highest levels of leadership. While progress has been made, the fact that only 26% of senior leadership roles and 19% of C-suite positions are held by women shows that systemic barriers still exist.This isn’t just about representation; it’s about opportunity, recognition, and ensuring that women rise based on merit, not outdated biases. The fact that only one in four chief-level executives is a woman underscores the urgent need for structured mentorship, sponsorship, and policy changes that create equitable career paths.Leadership should not be defined by gender but by capability, vision, and expertise. It’s time to actively break down the barriers preventing women from reaching the highest levels, so future generations inherit a truly diverse and inclusive landscape.

As a successful leader, how do you think (business) leaders can accelerate action toward closing the gender gap and ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace?

Closing the gender gap starts with a fundamental shift in mindset—one that prioritizes trust, fairness, and opportunity. Business leaders must move beyond outdated biases and create environments where women can thrive.One critical step is implementing corporate programs that support professional women who are also mothers. Maternity should never be a career roadblock. Providing parental leave, childcare support, and return-to-work programs allows women to balance both their careers and families without compromise.Flexibility is another game-changer. Offering hybrid roles, adjusted work hours, and career development paths that accommodate different life stages can encourage more women to stay and grow within the industry.Ultimately, accelerating progress means fostering a workplace where women are empowered, supported, and given the space to lead. When businesses actively break down barriers and champion equality, they don’t just uplift women—they strengthen the entire industry.

Can you share your top tips for entrepreneurial/managerial/leadership success?

1. Stay true to your vision – Have a clear purpose and believe in what you’re building. Challenges will come, but a strong vision will guide you through them.
2. Empower your team – Surround yourself with people you trust and give them the freedom to shine. Leadership isn’t about control, it’s about inspiration.
3. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity – Not everything will go as planned, and that’s okay. Every setback is a chance to grow stronger.
4. Prioritize clear communication – Transparency fosters trust, strengthens teams, and helps resolve issues faster.
5. Find balance – Success isn’t just about working hard; it’s also about knowing when to step back and recharge.

What’s the most important piece of advice you’d give to a woman thinking of starting a career at leadership level?

Believe in yourself—unapologetically. Don’t let anyone put limits on your ambition. Your dreams are yours to chase, no matter how big they are.Keep pushing forward, even when the road feels tough. Never feel bad for wanting more and never let a "no" be the end of the story. Keep knocking on doors—eventually, one will open.

Have there been any role models through your life (work or professional) who have helped shape you as a leader?

My circle of female friends may be small, but each of them is a powerhouse in her own right. Their success, intelligence, kindness, and unwavering confidence have shaped my own leadership journey in ways I never expected.They remind me that true empowerment comes from lifting each other up. Leadership isn’t just about guiding others, it’s also about learning from the people around you. Their influence has been a constant source of inspiration, pushing me to grow into the leader I am today.