Fourteen secondary school students have embarked on their culinary journey as the 2026 Taste of Wadadli Junior Chef Academy gets underway, according to Antigua News Room. The six-week programme offers hands-on training in professional kitchens across Antigua and Barbuda, running from July 13 to August 21.
Participants will train alongside experienced chef mentors at leading hotels and restaurants, gaining practical exposure to the hospitality industry. The programme concludes with a Cook-Off Challenge scheduled from August 25 to 28, where students will demonstrate the skills acquired during their internships. An awards ceremony on September 3 will crown the 2026 Taste of Wadadli Junior Chef.
This year's academy introduces a notable regional opportunity through a new partnership with the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association. The overall winner will travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2027 to participate in the Junior Lit'l Chefs Program, part of the TCI Hospitality Adventure Camps, where they will train with professional chefs and engage with other young culinary students from the region.
Organisers acknowledged the Isaac family for their support of the programme, offered in honour of the late Ted Isaac. Sponsors including Global Ports Holding (Antigua Cruise Port), participating hotels and restaurants, chef mentors, teachers, and additional partners were also recognised for their contributions.
The Taste of Wadadli Junior Chef Academy continues to serve as a platform for developing young talent and fostering careers in Antigua and Barbuda's vital hospitality and tourism sector.
