Michael Barazi was born in Damascus, Syria. When he was 6, he left his home country. As his father used to trade in China, every year little Michael came to China during holidays, so he was familiar with Chinese. He has travelled around the world for several times. As he felt there were more opportunities in China than any other places, he settled in Guangzhou.

Michael is particularly good at making pizzas.

From August 2 to 6, Michael was nominated as the chef of Spanish Food Festival in Zhongshan. This event was one of the highlights of the 2023 Zhongshan-Spain Cultural Festival.

Michael at the Spanish Food Festival.

It gave Michael the chance to learn more about Zhongshan. In addition to lighting industry of Guzhen and Cantonese food like roast pigeon, he also felt fascinated with Qijiang River Park near the hotel he worked. "I didn't expect that Zhongshan actually has many beautiful places, just like this." He said.

Michael wanders in the Qijiang River Park.

At Sheraton Hotel in Zhongshan Michael prepared some Spanish buffet to celebrate the 50 years' establishment of diplomatic relationship between China and Spain. Those simple but ceremonial cuisine brought different cultures together. Michael believes food is very important to express identity and exchange culture. It helps people get together easily.