The competition designed to develop and sharpen the culinary skills of young
people within the educational system enters the first phase today.
The event is the anticipated inaugural Taste of Wadadli Junior Chef Cook-Off
Competition. “Hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism
Association (ABHTA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, this culinary
extravaganza takes place at the GARD Centre across two action-packed days – on
Friday, November 3, and Monday, November 6, marking the grand
commencement of a delectable voyage into the world of gastronomy,” according to
the ABHTA.
This competition celebrates the quintessential local dish, Pepperpot, and
participating schools have dedicated the past four weeks to honing their culinary
skills in preparation for this epic showdown. Following the thrilling preliminary
rounds, the top four schools will ascend to the finale, slated for Monday, December
4, 2023, under the umbrella of the annual Tourism Week celebration.
The competition is structured into four electrifying rounds, each featuring a set of
talented schools:
Friday, November 3, 2023:
1. Round 1 (8:30 a.m.) will bear witness to the culinary wizardry of Glanvilles
Secondary, St. Mary’s Secondary, Sir McChesney George High School, and
Sir Novelle Richards Academy as they go head-to-head to demonstrate their
culinary prowess.
2. Round 2 (1:00 p.m.) will showcase a fiery Pepperpot showdown between
All Saints Secondary School, Princess Margaret School, Pares Secondary
School, Antigua Grammar School, and the Seventh Day Adventist School.
Monday, November 6, 2023:
1. Round 3 (8:30 a.m.) will shine a spotlight on The Antigua and Barbuda
Hospitality Training Institute, Antigua State College, Clarehall Secondary
School, Jennings Secondary School, and Ottos Comprehensive School.
2. Round 4 (1:00 p.m.) will culminate in a thrilling faceoff between Christ the
King High School, The Antigua Girls High School, Irene B. Williams
School, and St. Joseph’s Academy.
This event underscores the collaborative efforts of the ABHTA and the Ministry of
Tourism both dedicated to nurturing the talents of students in the hospitality
industry. ABHTA Chairman, Craig Marshall, expressed the organization's
unwavering commitment to this mission, stating, "We intend to include this
competition in our annual calendar of events at the ABHTA. Our primary goal is to
identify students across Antigua and Barbuda who possess a natural talent for
culinary arts and provide them with a platform to nurture their passion. This is a
key mission for the ABHTA."
With an overwhelming response from 18 schools and colleges, the ABHTA
extends its gratitude to the dedicated Home Economics teachers and Principals of
these institutions for their steadfast support.
To the students, the message is clear: bring your A-game and showcase what you
have practiced diligently, every day, as this is your opportunity to shine on the
culinary stage. Well-wishers and supporters are welcome to visit the GARD
Centre to view the competition on both days, where local treats will be made
available for sale.
