The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association has named the three
distinguished members of the judging panel for Monday’s Taste of Wadadli Junior
Chef Cook-Off Competition.
The Chef Judges will eagerly savor the culinary creations of the talented young
competitors in the first-of-its-kind event taking place at the Antigua and Barbuda
Hospitality Training Institute.
The panel comprises Chef Olvanah Richardson Burnette, Chef Dean Samuel, and
Mario Colindres.
An ABHTA release described each judge individually.
Chef Olvanah Richardson Burnette, initially on a path toward business
administration, discovered her passion for the culinary arts at the age of 17 at the
Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute. Drawing inspiration from her
experiences at St. James Club and Carlisle Bay Resort, she earned CHTA
scholarships and the distinction of being the first Young Chef recognized by Chef
Julian Waterer. Chef Olvanah’s 26-year journey has encompassed roles as a Chef,
EMT volunteer, judge, and instructor at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality
Training Institute, culminating in a rewarding career in the hospitality industry.
Hailing from Freetown, Antigua, Chef Dean Samuel is a culinary virtuoso
currently making waves in Anguilla. With over 25 years of expertise, specializing
in pastry, Dean honed his skills at the Antigua and Barbuda Hotel Training School
and further refined them in Naples, Charleston, Phoenix, and Anguilla's Cap Juluca
Hotel. Formerly recognized as one of the top 25 chefs in the region, Dean
champions dedication, creativity, and authenticity in Caribbean cuisine. His
accolades include being named "Supervisor of the Year" in Anguilla and leading
Team Anguilla to multiple gold wins in the Taste of the Caribbean Competition.
Mario Colindres, whose culinary journey began in El Salvador, has worn various
hats—Pastry Chef, Production and Purchasing Manager, and Operations Manager.
In 2001, he brought his culinary prowess to Goddard Catering, St. Maarten, rising
to the rank of Executive Chef and Operations Manager. He is currently serving as
the General Manager at Goddard Catering Group Antigua and Barbuda.
Adding an extra layer of excitement, the judges will unveil a secret ingredient on
the day of the competition and students will showcase Fungi as the star of their
local dish presentation.
The Junior Chef Cook-Off competition is a feature of the second day of Tourism
Week 2023 and will feature finalists representing St. Joseph’s Academy, Antigua
Seventh Day Adventist School, Antigua State College, and Sir McChesney George
Secondary School.
