
Ping Coombes at work
Ping Coombes is one of the many incredibly hardworking women whose career and homelife balance, and sheer ambition, made me think of creating an ‘inspiring women’ series of interviews on FashCatherine. Chef and now author of her own cookery book, ‘Malaysia: Recipes from a family kitchen‘, Ping became a household name after winning Masterchef in 2014 with her culinary wizardry. Growing up and learning the virtues of ‘good food’ in Malaysia, Ping took her creative talent and passion, and applied it in the face of adversity; something we can all take inspiration from. Here, she talks about how she became a household name, top tips for starting out, and taking inspiration from her travels – and, Dame Judi Dench.
A chicken satay and peanut sauce from Ping’s cookbook
How would you describe your job, and how much of your time does it take up?
What was your biggest setback and how did you overcome it?

“@rivercottagehq with my students for hands on cookery course.”
Did you ever feel held back in the workplace, because you are a woman?
How have you gained confidence within your working role?


Work aside, how do you prioritise your social time? Who gets the most of your attention?
How do you relax?

What would you say to women who are interested in starting a career in your industry?
How do find your own inspiration – for work, and for play?

What are your three top tips for starting your own business?
How ambitious are you? Are you still striving for more success? How?

What is your favourite/best social media tool?
- Check out Ping Coombes for Scott Dunn‘s delicious menus
- Find Ping online at Ping’s Pantry
- Buy a copy of Ping’s book, Malaysia: Recipes from a family kitchen
Read the other interviews in our ‘women inspiring women series
- Caroline Watson, stylist and bag designer, here
- Kids’ fashion designer Jessica Seaman, here
- Lifestyle PR guru Shosh Kazab, here
- Fashion and beauty blogger Danie Vanier, here
- Nutrition expert + lots more Yvonne Wake, here
- Writer and social media expert, Susie Verrill, here
- WGSN kids’ fashion editor, Clare Weston, here