Late Top Chef Contestant Fatima Ali Remembered as "Shining Star" as Namesake Foundation Honors Her Legacy

Two years after her passing, Top Chef's Fatima Ali is being remembered by the foundation created in her honor as they mark a new chapter in the work being done to celebrate her legacy. The namesake foundation, the Chef Fatima Foundation, first launched last August, and the organization's website launched this week on the anniversary of her passing following a battle with cancer. 

"It's a day that weighs heavy on many hearts. On January 25th, 2019 we lost our beloved Fati, our shining star. Two years on we have taken a leaf out of Fati's own book and created this Foundation in her name. Our labour of love, the Chef Fatima Foundation was launched on August 8th, 2020, her 31st birthday, and today, we launch our website. Her spirit continues to lead the way for the Foundation. We hope to execute her vision by shining a brighter light on our country and beauty within by helping others and not being afraid to take the road less travelled," a statement on The Chef Fatima Foundation's Instagram reads about the work being done in the memory of the late Bravo's Top Chef Season 15 Fan Favorite winner, who passed away after a battle with Ewing's sarcoma.

According to the foundation's website, their mission is explained as being "a non-profit organization based in Lahore, Pakistan. Our Foundation was the brain-child of our namesake, Chef Fatima Ali who lost her battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma on January 25, 2019. Fati’s hopes and dreams were larger than life. She was convinced that nothing could ever come in the way of the goals she set for herself. This is the philosophy that drives the Chef Fatima Foundation."

The website further notes that it plans to achieve their goals through four programs: "Fati’s Food — Spread joy through food; Training — Provide training to those interested in the Culinary Arts; Chef Exchange — Global exchange of food and culture through mutual teaching and learning; and Grants — Fulfill dreams of those passionate about making food their livelihood."