Naoise Ahern of Coláiste Íde agus Iosef, Abbeyfeale, has emerged as the winner of the local Young Chef of Ireland Award, a regional event for Limerick and Clare hosted by Limerick Rotary Club (with special acknowledgement to Sinéad Marron) in conjunction with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, LCETB.
There was a strong entry from both counties, with a shortlist of five selected for the cook-off final at The Hospitality Training Campus, Roxboro. The contenders were Naoise, Ruby Shanahan (Scoil Mhuire agus Íde, Newcastle West), Roxane Andre-Liddane (Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh), Dara Ajala (Coláiste Chiaráin, Croom), and Oscar Mehta (St Anne’s Community College, Killaloe).
In the final, the quintet all demonstrated exceptional culinary skill during the two-hour competition. However, following an impressive showcase of talent, Naoise emerged victorious. The perpetual trophy was generously sponsored by Luke Nolan of KBR Foodservice Equipment, Wicklow.
Event organiser Tom Flavin, Chef and Food Consultant and Youth Lead for the Limerick Central Rotary Club, said: “We are delighted to host this competition for the fourth consecutive year and to shine a spotlight on the remarkable talents of these young chefs.
“Through this event, we hope to highlight the many pathways available for students interested in pursuing culinary arts, whether through apprenticeships or higher education.”
Tom is a native of Monagea. Of his successful career, he commented: “I consider myself very lucky to have met and worked with amazing people, learning from some of the best in the industry throughout my career of over 30 years. Now, for me, it is all about continuing to build new relationships and help businesses, as well as giving something back to the food community through the positive promotion of the culinary industry.”
Bernadette Enright of LCETB said: “It is vital that we continue to support and encourage hospitality training in our secondary schools. The standard demonstrated by the students in this competition is truly inspiring.”