Maria Bradford was born in Sierra Leone. She grew up in Freetown, and started helping her mother prepare family meals from about nine years of age. Inspired by her heritage, Maria reinvents traditional African dishes to create high end Afro-fusion cuisine, and is renowned for her 'Salone Spark' and 'Salone Fire' sauces. Maria studied at Leiths School of Food and Wine and founded Maria Bradford Kitchen in 2017. Her catering is in high demand for corporate events, weddings and private dining throughout Africa and the UK. Maria lives in the south of England with her husband and two children.