A 21-year-old Oldham student is one of nine young hopefuls competing in the latest series of Young MasterChef.

Rima Aishah Begum, whose videos have racked up more than 8 million views on TikTok, is competing to become the latest winner of the show, now in its second series.

Already available on BBC iPlayer, and airing on BBC Three at 8pm tonight, the series sees Michelin-trained social media star Poppy O’Toole judging contestants alongside author and YouTube food star Big Has.

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Rima, who learned how to cook from her mother when she was younger, is currently studying at York St John University.

The 21-year-old, who turns 22 on Monday, January 15, is one of eight siblings hailing from Oldham.

As well as appearing in the new series of Young MasterChef, Rima also runs a business, having been made the owner of family-run Hustle Burger, located on Mitchell Street, in April 2023.

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In promotional material for the new series, Rima said: “Cooking in the MasterChef kitchen is a crazy feeling. It is very tough but at the same time feels so unreal.

“You’re in this electric atmosphere with all this brand new amazing equipment cooking with the best quality produce you’ve probably never used before. Overall, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience!”

Describing her style of cooking, Rima said: “I love all types of cuisine and I’d say my style of cooking is very diverse. I enjoy free-styling rather than following recipes.”

In December, co-host Poppy O’Toole said: “We have super high expectations but I know standards are going to be up there. I can’t wait to get started and find 2024’s Young MasterChef Champion!”

Co-host Big Has said: “This is going to be special. I’m ready for the cooks to walk through the doors and show us what they’ve got.”

Update, January 24: This article has been updated to say Rima is one of eight siblings, not four.

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