Jamaican pastry chef finding sweet success in Dubai

Dubai, capital of the United Arab Emirates, has become a popular travel destination and vacation spot, especially for Jamaican influencers or travellers.

However, 28-year-old Shauna Silvera has taken it to another level by making Dubai her home. The talented pastry chef moved to the Emirates in 2017 with her then partner to work at the first Jamaican restaurant there. Silvera, who is originally from St Mary and raised in St Ann, harbours big dreams of establishing her own pastry shop, with outlets across the globe.

"That's the ultimate goal, to have my own business. I've told my friends, same way you see KFC in every country, this is how you're going to see a Silvera pastry shop in every country. That is the vision and that's what I'm working towards," she said. Her passion for food stems from her traditional upbringing.

"I've always been a foodie. My whole household has always loved food. Not only eating it, but always finding joy in cooking or making traditional delights. My auntie was a pastry chef, so I kind of started young. From doing 'pink on top, white a bottom', blue draws to wedding cakes and all the sweet treats," Silvera explained. While many Jamaicans look for opportunities in the US or Canada, Silvera asserted that Dubai also provides great opportunities and experiences.

"It's a really good opportunity to live here, and I feel really good that I'm in pastry because pastry holds a special place in the hearts of people here. These Emiratis love sweets, so they go out for coffee and cake through and through; so sweets actually make money in this country," she explained. She has made a name for herself by creating continental and international desserts and cakes. She also specialises in customised cakes for any celebration.

"The Jamaican part does come out, but just around Christmas, when you know everybody is searching for a fruitcake, and because of the demand, we do a sale," she noted.

Despite recently signing a new contract with another restaurant, Silvera was previously promoted to head pastry chef at her former job, a testament to her skill and dedication. Transitioning to life in Dubai, she experienced a major cultural shift. Initially, Dubai had strict rules on public displays of affection, dress codes, and cohabitation. By 2019, these rules were relaxed, and today the city has become much more liberal, allowing casual dress and cohabitation. The lifestyle is now easier and more relaxed, reflecting Dubai's efforts to attract more global visitors.

"I see a lot of Jamaican influencers here all the time. Once you say you're from Jamaica, that's a different ballgame! The love is real for Jamaicans here, because no matter how disassociative they are with Africans or other races, once you say Jamaica you are loved," Silvera shared.

Even though there are opportunities to make up to J$500,000 per month, Silvera acknowledges that "no weh like yaad".

"The thing is, you see, when you leave, that's when you realise what you had and how amazing home (Jamaica) is. Financially and work-wise, Jamaica is tough, but to see family and the environment, I love home."

Travelling back to Jamaica for visits is not without its challenges. A ticket to Dubai for June may range from US$2,500, which is approximately J$389,000.

"I try to go home like every year and a half, two years max. I try to make a trip home but it's expensive. The expenses, plus having to support my father and child back home, it's not the best choice," Silvera said.