Gastronomy has the potential to transform society, shaping a more inclusive, more sustainable future. But to do so takes talent.
That's why S.Pellegrino has created a platform to attract, connect and nurture the next generation of culinary talents. An environment that will empower them through education, mentoring and experience opportunities - as well as through the renowned global competition.
Where talent knows no boundaries
Welcoming all past, present and future participants, mentors and jurors in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef competition, the Academy opens its doors to members from over 70 different countries, ensuring that talent is not constrained by geography, ethnicity or gender.
It's a place where passionate young chefs interact with the most influential players in global gastronomy, and where together they cultivate an inspiring culinary community.
Nelson Freitas, S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2023
Jerome Ianmark Calayag, S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2021
Yashiro Fujio, S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2018
Mitch Lienhard, S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2016
Mark Moriarty, S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2015
A global contest to celebrate the next generation
In 2015, S.Pellegrino launched the S.Pellegrino Young Chef competition to support new talent in the world of gastronomy. The first four editions of this ambitious competition have attracted 10,000 young chefs from around the world, and involved hundreds of renowned senior chefs as jurors and mentors.
The most recent overall winner was chef Nelson Freitas (Iberian Countries), who beat 14 other finalists to take the title in 2023. The young talents who claimed the prestigious prize before him were Jerome Ianmark Calayag (UK and Northern Europe) in 2021, Yasuhiro Fujio (Japan) in 2018, Mitch Lienhard (USA) in 2016 and Mark Moriarty (UK & Ireland region) in 2015.
A community where youth meets experience
The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy ensures that, once the competition is over, the young chefs who participate can continue to be mentored by the best in the industry.
Because success in the restaurant business requires a broad set of skills, the Academy provides online seminars, videos, podcasts and more covering everything from management and marketing to technology and innovation.
Connections that lead to opportunities
The Academy makes it easy for young chefs to network with colleagues and industry figures around the world. What's more, senior chefs and partners have access to profiles of all the S.Pellegrino young chefs, so they can find the best talent for events and job opportunities.
A watchful eye on Young Chefs around the world
Among its other services, the Academy also runs a periodic survey exploring the working conditions of young chefs, as well as their ambitions, strengths and weaknesses.
Inspiring the next generation of culinary game-changers
