Age: 31

Western Australia

Instagram: @ruetendom

Previous season & place: Season 15, placed 7th 

Dental hygienist Rue Mupedzi admits fear held her back from reaching her full potential in season 15 of MasterChef Australia, but this time she is determined not to squander her second chance to do it right.

Eliminated from 2023’s competition in seventh place, Rue now dreams of leaving her career behind and pursuing her passion for the kitchen full time. With her unforgettable smile set to light up the kitchen as she comes Back To Win, she is putting all her eggs in one basket in pursuit of success.

Known for her pastry prowess and love of all things sweet, following her MasterChef Australia kitchen experience, Rue worked part-time as a chef for private catering events, and completed cooking courses to perfect her cooking skills and technique. She has also travelled abroad to develop a greater understanding of different food cultures and flavours.

Inspired locally by Reynold Poernomo, Jess Liemantara and Kirsten Tibballs and internationally by Yotam Ottolenghi, Ramon Morato and Franciso Migoya, Rue says her number one ingredient would have to be butter. She returns to the MasterChef Australia kitchen ready to showcase her growth and perseverance, promising to bring her competitive nature to the kitchen every day.

Rue tasted success in her last season, when her mouthwatering BBQ sauce, BarbeRue, was stocked in Coles stores across Australia. The feedback she received was off the charts and she’s ready for more.

Originally hailing from Zimbabwe, Rue moved to Australia aged 15 alongside her parents, older sister and younger brother. Bubbly, calm and bringing a unique brand of joy, Rue loves food because in her culture, it brings people together and she knows just what joy it can bring.

Coming Back To Win is a step in the direction of Rue’s dreams. With ambitions of one day having her own champagne and dessert bar, Rue also is planning a stint in Paris to study pastry and elevate her skills to the next level.