Suvechha Sarkar
From the very first moment Cydni J. Stickney stepped into season 24 of Fox’s ‘Hell’s Kitchen,’ it became clear that she was there not just to cook but also to represent her state, North Carolina. As the heat in the kitchen went up week after week, she proved that backing down was never an option. Even when she found herself nominated for elimination more than once, she never gave up and always remarkably bounced back. The constructive criticism further helped her show why she deserved to compete. During her very first challenge, Cydni found herself in an unexpected situation while cooking in a short dress. While it could have rattled many chefs, she brushed it off and powered through the ordeal like a professional.
Cydni Stickney’s Consistent Efforts Led Her to Become One of the Strongest Contenders
Right from the beginning of the contest, Cydni J. Stickney faced multiple setbacks and moments of doubt. Yet, by episode 8, she had found her footing, steadily regaining her confidence, and proving that she belonged among the strongest chefs in the kitchen. By the time episode 12 came around, Cydni was tasked to prepare a dish that represented her state, North Carolina. With relentless resilience, she delivered a stand-out dish that showcased both her roots and growth. Although she didn’t get the black jacket in that challenge, she refused to let it dictate her performance in the following round. She had to create an elevated pizza dish, paying tribute to the host state, Connecticut. Cydni’s creativity and execution eventually shone through, earning her a coveted black jacket alongside Lisa.
As the competition intensified, Cydni faced tense moments, including ingredient clashes and high-pressure services. Yet, she remained composed and confident in her abilities. Even when communication issues put her at risk of elimination, her refusal to back down and her determination to fight for her own place truly stood out. It ultimately led Gordon Ramsay to give her another chance. In the Semifinals, she once again proudly represented her state, impressing the judges with her pork chop. When twists and sabotage threatened to derail her leadership, Cydni caught two critical mistakes and earned praise from Gordon himself. Ultimately, she secured a place among the final three competitors.
Cydni Stickney Showcases Her Culinary Skills as an Executive Chef
Cydni J. Stickney had opened up on the show that her love for cooking began when she was just a little girl. However, that passion faced a significant threat when she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the tender age of 12. Yet, instead of letting it stop her, she pushed forward and chose to pursue a professional trajectory in cooking. Cydni’s journey was built step by step as she completed her schooling at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School in 2015, laying the foundation for the next step. Soon after, she pursued further education, attending the Arizona Culinary Institute’s Culinary Arts program. Even as a student, she began gaining real-world experience. In 2015, Cydni started working as a Chef at The Cheesecake Factory, where she remained until November 2016.
From there, Cydni stepped into the role of an Expeditor at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she sharpened her leadership and kitchen coordination skills. She continued to rise in her career, paving the way for her to join McNinch House Restaurant as an Executive Chef in September 2022. Additionally, Cydni has recently become active on social media, particularly on Facebook and Instagram. She utilizes these platforms to advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her advocacy is further highlighted through her participation in Pride rallies, where she promotes messages of peace and equality. Through her professional Instagram account, Cydni proudly showcases her culinary creations, including a diverse array of thoughtfully crafted dishes that reflect not only her skill but also her passion.
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Cydni Stickney Loves Making Memories With Her Family and Furry Companions
Away from the kitchen and the pressure of competition, Cydni’s world revolves entirely around her family. She shares an unbreakable bond with her mother, LuSung Lei Ward, which becomes evident from the fact that they share matching tattoos. Cydni often describes her mother as the “best momma” and “My ride or die.” What further symbolizes their deep connection is that the mother and daughter never shy away from expressing their love for each other openly on social media. She and LuSung often explore new restaurants together and even attend wine events, creating meaningful memories. Apart from that, Cydni never lets go of an opportunity to travel back to her home, cherishing the time spent with her family and finding comfort in familiar surroundings.
Moreover, Cydni’s home is filled with the love of her furry companions, including pups and a kitten, as well as her pet snake, Prince. Over the years, she has gradually welcomed them into her home one by one. One of her beloved pups was Tank, but unfortunately, she shared her grief about losing him forever in May 2020, expressing how much she missed his presence. To fill that void, Cydni welcomed another furry pup, Willow, into her world in that very same month. As a tribute to one of her great companions, she even added a cute kitten, Laika, to her family. In her free time, she finds comfort in cuddling with them. In February 2024, Cydni excitedly adopted a husky, Killua, who further lit up her home with joy. Her friends also play an equally important role in her life.
Cydni’s friends often join her for hockey games at the lively stadium, spontaneous trips to Renaissance fairs, or even adventures to Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland. In May 2020, she faced a major heartbreak when her dearest friend, Deshown Martez Miles, suddenly passed away. Whenever the world feels heavy from the losses, Cydni turns to nature for healing, with most of her escapades taking place in the forest, where she enjoys long walks with her beloved pups by her side. Being adventurous by nature, she also loves attending festivals, with the most notable being the Breakaway Festival in May 2023. Although Cydni has honestly shared that she is currently in a relationship, she has decided to shield the identity of her loved one from the public eye.
