Chef Cyrus Todiwala makes first visit to Northern Ireland

Renowned chef Cyrus Todiwala made his first visit to Northern Ireland last month to introduce over 100 Junior Chefs' Academy graduates and their guests to his innovative approach to Indian cuisine.

His masterclass was part of a celebration event organised by People 1st, the sector skills council for hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism, which introduced the Junior Chefs' Academy programme, along with Compass Group UK & Ireland, to Northern Ireland to address a skills shortage identified in research with the industry locally.

The young chefs aged 12 to 16 graduated from Junior Chefs' Academy programmes held in each of the six regional colleges. Two young chefs from each college took part in a live cookery challenge on stage judged by James McGinn, general manager of the Europa where the event took place.

Talking about the event Todiwala said: "I've been privileged to cook alongside many Junior Chefs and I never fail to be delighted by the enthusiasm these young people demonstrate for the art of cooking. As a chef proprietor and employer it is this fresh enthusiasm we'd like to harness for the future."

"It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm that Junior Chef's Academy has created. There is a real need for programmes such as this to instil passion and interest in our young people to encourage them to consider a career in the sector."

Words: Maria Bracken

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