Mary Berg’s journey to becoming one of Canada’s most beloved chefs is as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking. Born on December 13, 1989, in Pickering, Ontario, Mary grew up in a family that faced unimaginable tragedy. But through the darkest moments, she found light in the kitchen—a place where love and healing came together.

Mary was just four years old when her life changed forever. On a snowy March day in 1994, her family was involved in a devastating car accident while driving to a friend’s cottage. Their car hit a patch of black ice, flipped, and collided with a sign. Moments later, an oncoming truck struck their vehicle. The accident claimed her father’s life instantly and left her mother and older brother with severe injuries. Her mother’s arms were so damaged that she required a special walker she could push with her chin, while her brother suffered a head injury that required extensive rehabilitation. Miraculously, young Mary escaped with minimal injuries—a stroke of luck often seen in children due to their flexible bodies.

Before the accident, Mary’s father worked as a microbiologist, and her mother was a homemaker. The sudden loss of her father, the family’s primary breadwinner, forced them to adapt to a new reality. Mary’s mother channeled her strength into starting a business that helped children with acquired brain injuries and learning disabilities, providing for her family while making a difference in the lives of others.

As Mary grew up, the financial strain on her family meant she had to mature quickly. Cooking became her way of contributing to the household. Her Nana stepped in to help the family after the accident, showing Mary that food could be a source of comfort and care. By the age of six, Mary began baking, and by 13, she was preparing full dinners for her family. From Italian chicken to daily crepes, Mary experimented with recipes, honing her skills and finding joy in the process.

Despite her passion for cooking, Mary initially pursued a different path. She attended Wilfrid Laurier University, earning a double major in History and English, followed by a master’s degree in Information Technology from the University of Toronto. For five years, she worked as an insurance broker, but her heart always belonged in the kitchen.

In 2016, Mary decided to take a leap of faith and auditioned for MasterChef Canada. Her warmth, creativity, and undeniable talent won the hearts of viewers and judges alike, ultimately earning her the title of the first female winner in the show’s history. Along with the $100,000 prize, her victory marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. She left her corporate job and embraced her culinary dreams. Her success on MasterChef Canada led to hosting her own cooking shows, including Mary’s Kitchen Crush on CTV, which premiered in 2019. The show, where Mary shared personal stories and cooking tips while whipping up delicious dishes, won a Canadian Screen Award for Best Lifestyle Program or Series in 2020.

Mary’s charm and approachable style quickly made her a household name. She gained a devoted following on social media, amassing over 117,000 Instagram followers. Through her posts, she shares recipes, cooking tips, and glimpses into her life, inspiring her audience to embrace the joy of cooking at home. Her genuine connection with fans has solidified her place as a beloved figure in the culinary community.

Mary’s story is not just one of success—it’s one of resilience. The tragedy that claimed her father’s life and reshaped her family also ignited her passion for cooking. What began as a way to help her family became a celebrated career that has touched countless lives. Today, Mary continues to inspire with her warmth, talent, and unwavering determination. Her journey from heartbreak to culinary stardom is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to find joy, purpose, and triumph.