By Celestine Chacon | December 9, 2024
The Kids Cooking Academy, founded by Chef Kester Robinson, has been making a significant impact on the lives of hundreds of children since its establishment in 2019.
Chef Robinson, who is also the executive chef at The Pergola Experience, a local restaurant, shared that his passion for cooking evolved into a desire to give back to the community.
The academy provides young learners with valuable culinary skills and insight into potential career opportunities within the tourism and hospitality industry.
Last year alone, the program engaged over 100 students, including participants from orphanages, equipping them with professional training and motivation to pursue careers in the culinary or tourism sectors.
Chef Robinson highlighted the academy’s commitment to sustainability by incorporating environmentally friendly materials such as bamboo, banana suckers, and coconut shells.
These locally sourced items are repurposed to meet international culinary standards, providing an innovative and eco-conscious approach to the training.
Looking ahead, the Kids Cooking Academy will focus on secondary school students, offering specialized programs to prepare them for the growing demands of Guyana’s thriving tourism and culinary industries.
The academy has partnered with the Guyana Tourism Authority and the Ministry of Tourism to host several culinary competitions and training programs.
The most recent event was the Junior Tourism Cooking Competition, which provided a platform for young chefs to showcase their skills.
The Kids Cooking Academy continues to play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of chefs while promoting sustainable and innovative practices in the culinary arts.