Job: Birth Trauma Specialist Midwife

Key Quote: "My strengths are definitely flavour and my weaknesses are finesse! I always rush and so often don’t have time to neatly finish in the way I want to."

Great British Baking Show Season 15

Born in London as one of eight siblings, Illiyin grew up in Norfolk in a busy household in which she helped her mum to bake, soon becoming the go-to family member for birthday cakes. Living in a community of myriad cultures and nationalities, Illiyin is inspired by the ingredients and flavours of many different cuisines. For example, she loves using Middle Eastern ingredients, such as dried fruits, nuts, honey, rose and mint, in her cakes; while her savoury bakes are typically inspired by the flavours of the Caribbean. A qualified midwife and published author, Illiyin now freelances to help women as they embark on their parenthood journey. She lives with her sister and nieces, and her Spanish husband and their two young children.