Antiguan Chef Maurine Bowers Achieves Dual Culinary Certifications from American Culinary Federation

Chef Maurine Bowers, Executive Chef at Moon Gate Antigua, has earned the prestigious Certified Executive Chef (CEC) designation from the American Culinary Federation (ACF), according to Antigua News Room. The achievement was celebrated by the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), which highlighted the milestone as a testament to Chef Bowers' professional excellence.

The CEC designation joins an already distinguished credential in Chef Bowers' portfolio — the Certified Executive Pastry Chef (CEPC) certification — making her one of the few culinary professionals in the region to hold both qualifications.

"After nearly 28 years in the hospitality industry, earning the Certified Executive Chef designation is both an honour and a reflection of years of hard work, continuous learning, and dedication to my craft," Chef Bowers said. "Having already achieved the Certified Executive Pastry Chef certification, this was a natural progression in my professional journey. I hope this accomplishment inspires other culinary professionals to continue investing in their development and striving for excellence."

Chef Bowers has been a prominent figure in Antigua and Barbuda's hospitality sector, contributing to numerous ABHTA initiatives over the years. She has served as a judge for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Gala Awards, mentored aspiring culinary talent through the Junior Chef Competition, and led Team Antigua and Barbuda at the 2024 Taste of the Caribbean Competition in Miami.

Her contributions extend to the regional stage as well. She has played a key role in the culinary programme for the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association's Caribbean Travel Marketplace for the past two years. She has also been selected as a culinary judge for the 2025 Taste of the Caribbean Competition in Barbados, where she will help evaluate some of the Caribbean's finest culinary talent.

Through her achievements and continued service to the industry, Chef Bowers remains a driving force in elevating Antigua and Barbuda's culinary reputation both regionally and internationally, while serving as an inspiration to the next generation of hospitality professionals.