Imagine stepping into the historic Château de Bel Ombre, where the air is filled with the rich aromas of Mauritian cuisine. A warm and friendly face greets you—Gian Sookye. Having joined the Château’s kitchen team as a young cook at just 16, Gian, now a respected 76, continues to share his passion for cooking at Agrïa in Bel Ombre, marking over six decades of unwavering service and dedication.

Early life and career

Gian, the youngest of seven children, was raised in Bel Ombre. His great-grandfather and father worked at the Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, nowknown as Agrïa. Following in their footsteps, Gian began his career as a labourer but soon discovered his true calling in culinary at Le Château de Bel Ombre.

Under the mentorship of Huguette—known affectionately as Matante Huguette—a maid at Le Château, Gian learned the art of traditional Mauritian cuisine.  This early mentorship sparked a lifelong passion for cooking, which he continues to share at Agrïa through beloved dishes like palmiste braisé, venison curry, and his special flan.

Gian’s reputation has grown far beyond Bel Ombre;  establishments like Le Chamarel Restaurant and other local hotels frequently seek his expertise. His generosity in sharing his culinary knowledge has only increased his reputation as a master chef.

A witness to Bel Ombre’s evolution

Throughout his career, Gian has worked under eight different administrators at Le Château de Bel Ombre, witnessing firsthand the transformation of Bel Ombre from a sugar cane estate to a vibrant community with hotels and villas.

This growth has brought economic opportunities and positively impacted countless lives, including Gian’s. Reflecting on his career, he shares:

"I remember Mr. de Spéville, Mr. d'Unienville, and Mr. Couacaud, who supported and encouraged me professionally and personally. Today, I take pride in owning a concrete house and having provided my children with a solid education —all thanks to the stability and opportunities that my career has offered."

Timeless wisdom

Gian's advice to young professionals is rooted in resilience and integrity: "Persevere, maintain good behaviour, and stay disciplined."
His story shows the power of perseverance, meaningful connections, and the importance of a positive attitude. It also highlights the impact of a nurturing work environment and opportunities for growth —making Gian not just an employee, but a cherished member of the Rogers family.