The Chefs, their experiences and advice.
Chef J'Ai Samuda-Thomas
The Junior Chef of the year competition was a competition that required great preparation and dedication. It was my first time competing at an international level and as such it desired much more from me, since I was not just a mere competitor but also an Ambassador of the Jamaican culture. I was assigned a manager, Rochelle Grindley, who worked tirelessly and steadfastly with me from start to finish. In order to harness the mental, emotional and physical capacity of being prepared for this competition I did vast research on new culinary trends; especially that of molecular gastronomy and attempted as many as possible to see which item would be most suitable for the time allotted (2 hours: 1 hour for preparation and 1 hour for cooking).
Team competition:
The team competition was much easier because I was accompanied by two Senior Chefs and a Pastry Chef. Vast training was obtained for this competition. The Captain for the team, Chef Brian Lumley, delegated tasks which made duties clear for the persons on the team and contributed to the smooth transition from one task to the other. The team worked with great cohesiveness and this garnered positive result. Team Jamaica received the silver award, which was an improvement for the bronze medal received in the previous year.
Advice to all culinarians and persons with the desire to compete in culinary competitions
My advice to persons who desire to compete both nationally and internationally is to appreciate all opportunities granted and to take pride in all dishes cooked and plated; from both a savoury and sweet prospective. Competing in culinary competitions are priceless prospects that not all persons are privy to and as such all tasks assigned should be completed with great zeal, dedication and a willing heart. Jamaica possesses a vibrant culture that should be represented with passion and enthusiasm. Researching old and contemporary culinary trends from your country of residence as well as that of the competitors’ is a great asset that will enable and promote positive results.
“Opportunities don’t just happen; individuals create them.”