Nestlé Professional is delighted to announce the three visionary chefs who have been awarded the inaugural ‘Green Spatula’ at the Global Chefs Challenge Finals in Singapore.
Created in collaboration with the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs), this prestigious new award celebrates the fusion of culinary excellence with a deep commitment to sustainability, recognizing chefs who excel in both creating world-class dishes and adopting environmentally responsible practices in their kitchens.
The ‘Green Spatula’ Award was presented to chefs competing across three categories: the Global Chefs Challenge, Global Young Chefs Challenge, and Global Vegan Chefs Challenge. Each winner demonstrated outstanding leadership in waste management, and energy and water optimization, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the culinary industry.
The 2024 ‘Green Spatula’ Award winners are:
Tom Lamers, Global Chefs Challenge – Hailing from the Netherlands, Tom impressed the judges with his innovative culinary skill as well as his approach to sustainability in the kitchen.
Andreas Enger Fjellheim, Global Young Chefs Challenge – Competing with other chefs who are 25 years or younger, Andreas, from Singapore, not only won the Global Young Chefs Challenge he also won the Green Spatula Award.
Dinars Zvidrinš, Global Vegan Chefs Challenge – Competing in the first edition of the Global Vegan Chefs Challenge, Dinars, from Latvia, captured the jury’s attention with his inventive plant-based dishes and sustainable kitchen management.
Cornel Krummenacher, Global Head of Food at Nestlé Professional, highlighted the importance of the award, stating, “The Green Spatula Award is more than just recognition—it’s a symbol of the industry’s shift towards sustainability. These chefs are leading the way, showing us how responsible cooking can inspire future generations.”
Rick Stephen, Chairman of the Worldchefs Culinary Competition Committee, added, “The new Nestlé Professional ‘Green Spatula’ Award is a critical step in recognizing chefs who lead by example in sustainable cooking. Through competitions like the Global Chefs Challenge, we’re encouraging chefs to push the boundaries of sustainability, not only in the dishes they create but in how they approach resource management in their kitchens.”
Paris, France, 4 November 2024 – The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) is proud to announce the election of Chef Andy Cuthbert as its new President. Chef Andy was elected by the Presidents of Worldchefs’ 100+ Member National Associations, a testament to his dedication, leadership, and commitment to culinary professionals worldwide. Taking the helm from outgoing President Thomas Gugler, Chef Andy’s leadership marks a new chapter for Worldchefs as it continues its mission of uniting chefs globally and advancing culinary excellence.
Alongside Chef Cuthbert, a newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors brings together a dynamic group of industry leaders dedicated to serving the international chef community.
President Andy Cuthbert: Open, Honest, Transparent
As President, I aim to be open, honest, and transparent, ensuring that we address the real challenges facing our industry. From supporting young chefs to enhancing educational outreach and championing sustainable practices, I am committed to elevating Worldchefs as the global voice of chefs. We have an incredible foundation built over 96 years, and together, with our diverse network, we’ll work to advance our industry for a brighter future.
Chef Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs President
With over three decades in the industry, Chef Andy Cuthbert brings a wealth of experience, having shaped culinary standards in both fine dining and large-scale hotel operations worldwide. His career, which started humbly in Melbourne, Australia, saw him rise through the ranks at prestigious establishments, including Dubai’s Emirates Towers Hotel, where he managed 19 restaurants, helping establish the city as an international culinary destination. A central figure in the Emirates Culinary Guild and Worldchefs, including President of the Emirates Culinary Guild, Worldchefs Continental Director for the Africa Middle East region, and Chairman of the Worldchefs Congress Committee, Chef Andy has long been known for his commitment to the professional development of young chefs, culinary competitions, and the values of unity and excellence within the organization.
His vision for Worldchefs is rooted in a commitment to inclusivity, knowledge-sharing, and sustainable practices, which have earned him respect and admiration throughout the culinary world.
Reflecting on his new role, Chef Andy expressed his dedication to Worldchefs’ values and future growth: “I am honored to lead Worldchefs and build on the foundation of excellence, inclusivity, and camaraderie that defines our organization. Collaborating with member associations across countries presents an incredible opportunity to shape meaningful programs that serve our industry and the chefs who define it. I look forward to inspiring the next generation of culinary leaders through innovation, sustainability, and community.”
New Board of Directors: Leaders for a Borderless Vision
The newly elected Worldchefs Board is composed of accomplished culinary professionals representing regions of the globe. Each member brings invaluable expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the culinary arts.
WORLDCHEFS executive committee & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Andy Cuthbert – President
Rick Stephen – Vice President
Alain Hostert – Secretary General
Kristine Hartviksen – Assistant Vice President
Uwe Michael – Assistant Vice President
Thomas Gugler – Past President
Martin Kobald – Continental Director, Africa & Middle East
Harry Linzmayer – Continental Director, Americas
Willment Leong – Continental Director, Asia
Neil Thomson – Continental Director, Europe North
Mike Pansi – Continental Director, Europe Central
George Damianou – Continental Director, Europe South
Peter Wright – Continental Director, Pacific Rim
Expressing his enthusiasm, Mike Pansi, Continental Director for Central Europe, shared:
“I’m excited to take on my new role and join the newly formed Worldchefs Board. During our first meeting, President Andy and his team demonstrated the potential of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. I’m eager to work alongside my fantastic colleagues to serve as an advocate for our industry and the national associations in Europe.”
Mike Pansi, Continental Director for Central Europe
With this leadership team, Worldchefs remains committed to fostering professional growth, culinary development, and education across its global network. The new board, alongside Chef Cuthbert, will champion initiatives that will continue its legacy of promoting international standards and creating opportunities for chefs of all levels to thrive.
The newly elected meet for the first time in Singapore, 23 October 2024. We are grateful for these dedicated volunteers, who remain committed to helping Worldchefs in its mission of elevating the industry and improving culinary standards around the world. We are excited to see what this board achieves throughout its term!
– END –
About Worldchefs
The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.
Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.
Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:
Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
It is with profound sadness that we share the details of the service to honour the life of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, Patrick O’Brien OAM.
Family, friends, and all those whose lives Patrick touched are warmly invited to join us as we come together to celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy.
We have set up a tribute page for Patrick https://tinyurl.com/2e879xa2. The live stream link will go live on Wed 6th, & the webcast will commence at the beginning of the Ceremony.
Rosary: 7:15 PM, 6th November Our Lady of the Mission Church 270 Camberwarra Drive, Craigie
Funeral Mass: 11:00 AM, 7th November Our Lady of the Mission Church 270 Camberwarra Drive, Craigie Dress Code for Chefs: Optional Chef Jacket – Gentlemen, can you please wear shirt & tie under jacket
Burial: 1:00 PM, 7th November Pinnaroo Valley Memorial Park Whitfords Avenue, Padbury
We are deeply grateful for the love, messages, and support we have received during this time. Your kindness has been a great comfort, and we look forward to gathering with you, whether in person or virtually, to honour Patrick’s memory.
Singapore, 25 October 2024 – The Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024 in Singapore concluded with the announcement of the Global Chefs Challenge 2024 results, closing four days of top-level competition and showcasing some of the world’s most talented culinary professionals. Chefs from across the globe competed across four categories, each challenging competitors to demonstrate technical expertise, creativity, and precision.
A leading international competition, the Global Chefs Challenge has become a prestigious event for chefs to test their skills and bring their best work to the table, setting a standard for excellence within the industry.
“The Global Chefs Challenge showcases the highest level of skill and commitment, where chefs aren’t just competing against each other but against a rigorous set of global standards. The Congress offers the ideal stage to share these experiences, connect as professionals, and drive the industry forward,” said Rick Stephen, Chairman of the Worldchefs Competition Committee. “It’s about testing skills, focus, and teamwork in an environment that champions excellence. Watching competitors rise to the occasion, showcase the talent and diversity of our global chef community, and build international camaraderie, reinforces why this event is so essential to a bright future for our industry.”
Competitors prepared dishes that demonstrated exceptional craftsmanship, a commitment to quality ingredients, and a passion for sustainable gastronomy.
Global Chefs Challenge
Winner: Ale Mordasini, Switzerland
1st Runner Up: Giuseppe De Vincenzo, Italy
2nd Runner Up: Aloysius Tay Yu Wei, Singapore
Best Fish: Francis Derick Flores, Canada
Best Veal: Ale Mordasini, Switzerland
Green Spatula: Tom Lamers, Netherlands
Best Use of Dilmah Tea: Phanttanant Thongthong, Thailand
Global Young Chefs Challenge
Winner: Andreas Enger Fjellheim, Norway
1st Runner Up: Joe Chong Ming Jie, Singapore
2nd Runner Up: Francesco Locorotondo, Italy
Best Fish: Joe Chong Ming Jie, Singapore
Best Veal: Andreas Enger Fjellheim, Norway
Green Spatula: Andreas Enger Fjellheim, Norway
Global Pastry Chefs Challenge
Winner: Luca Bnà, Italy
1st Runner Up: Ng Kia Yi, Singapore
2nd Runner Up: Park Sang Sou, South Korea
Best Use of Dilmah Tea: Simon Tsang, Hong Kong
Global Vegan Chefs Challenge
Winner: Steve Lentz, Luxembourg
1st Runner Up: Nigel Peh, Singapore
2nd Runner Up: Arvi-Christopher Agra, Philippines
Green Spatula: Dinars Zvidrinš, Latvia
“I’m incredibly proud of the skill and dedication shown by each competitor this year,” said Thomas A. Gugler, outgoing President of Worldchefs. “The Global Chefs Challenge competition is a chance for chefs to both challenge themselves and inspire others all around the world. The standard this year was outstanding, with participants embodying the Worldchefs values of unity and passion for our profession. It’s been a privilege to see ‘The Power of the White Jacket’ in the competition arena this week, the Congress event halls, and most importantly taken back to kitchens across the globe.”
The Global Chefs Challenge is a key part of Worldchefs’ mission to promote culinary development, advance international standards, and foster professional growth. The event remains an important international platform for chefs to celebrate their skills and contribute to a collaborative and far-reaching culinary community.
Ragnar Fridriksson, Managing Director of Worldchefs, highlighted the impact of the competition on fostering a connected global culinary network: “The Global Chefs Challenge is more than a competition. It’s about sharing techniques, celebrating cultural diversity, and building lifelong professional networks. It’s inspiring to see chefs uplifting each other while setting new standards for excellence.”
The global leading platform that brings together chef delegates and professionals from across the five continents, Worldchefs Congress & Expo delivers a unique program to help industry players network and expand their professional bonds.
This includes presentations and workshops from leading experts in the industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educators’ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, the Global Chefs Challenge Finals culinary competition, an international trade exhibition, and diverse activities to enhance both your personal and professional network.
The Astronaut Culinary Challenge Culinary Challenge gives young chefs the opportunity to launch their careers and help develop space-ready innovations in cuisine.
Paris, 10 of November 2023 – NASA’s HUNCH program and Worldchefs have announced an exciting collaboration that gives new meaning to haute cuisine. Their partnership empowers young chefs to pioneer space-ready culinary innovations through the Astronaut Culinary Challenge.
As part of HUNCH’s culinary initiative, the Astronaut Culinary Challenge nurtures skill development and the creation of space-friendly cuisine for astronauts. Each year, culinary teams from over 30 schools craft innovative dishes based on a central theme, bringing gastronomy to space exploration.
The HUNCH program’s mission is to inspire students through project-based, student-centric STEM learning. Participants acquire 21st-century skills and gain career-launching experiences by designing and fabricating valuable products for NASA.
Phoebus High School students prepare their dish for judging at the 2020 HUNCH Culinary Challenge at NASA Langley. Credit: NASA
Students learn about space physiology, how nutritional needs change for a body in a microgravity environment, and what to consider when food processing for space flight. Competitors then develop an entree to satisfy the nutrition needs and provide a taste experience for astronauts, ensuring that their creations adhere to the exacting standards of the NASA Johnson Space Center Food Laboratory.
The 2023 Astronaut Culinary Challenge theme is a savory breakfast item that includes a vegetable, with set nutritional guidelines including calories, fats, sodium, and fiber to ensure that astronauts launch into their day with optimal nutrition.
A preliminary round of competition will be held the first week of March, 2024. Teams who advance in the preliminary round will be invited to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston for the competition final in April, where their work will be judged by Food Laboratory personnel, industry professionals, the ISS program office, and astronauts for quality, taste, and their research presented in technical paper and video presentation. The winning entree will be processed by the Johnson Space Center Food Lab and sent to the International Space Station for astronauts to savor.
“We are very happy to announce our extraordinary partnership with NASA’s HUNCH program. Together, we can empower young chefs to take their culinary talents beyond our planet’s boundaries, pioneering innovative, space-ready cuisine,” says Thomas A. Gugler, President of Worldchefs. “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to raising industry standards and inspiring the next generation of chefs to build skills for the future. One small step for chefs, one giant leap for gastronomy!”
NASA/David C. BowmanNASA/Mark KnoppNASANASA / Mark KnoppNASA / Lucy Prince
For more information on the HUNCH program, visit nasahunch.com/programs/culinary. For more on the competition guidelines of the Astronaut Culinary Challenge and how to get involved, visit the competition website.
Founded in 1928, the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) represents the largest international membership of food and beverage professionals dedicated to raising industry standards. With over 240 member national chef associations, educational institutions, and F&B companies, Worldchefs is the global voice of culinary professionals.
Making the world of gelato even sweeter, the 2024 Gelato World Cup introduces new format and Worldchefs partnership, with culinary excellence and global camaraderie set to take center stage in 2024.
The Gelato World Cup and the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) have formed a collaborative partnership, with the 10th Gelato World Cup set to take place in January 2024 in Rimini, Italy.
The 2024 Gelato World Cup will feature teams from five continents competing in various gastronomic trials, fostering culinary excellence and international camaraderie.
Paris, 2 of October 2023 – The Gelato World Cup, the world’s benchmark event for artisan gelato, and the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) have announced a new collaborative partnership. The 10th Gelato World Cup, also known as Coppa del Mondo della Gelateria, will be held as part of SIGEP – International Exhibition of Artisan Gelato, Confectionery, and Bakery, The Dolce World Expo, at the Rimini Exhibition Centre from January 20 to 24 2024.
Since its inception in 2003, this biennial competition has consistently been a highlight of SIGEP, eagerly anticipated by gelato artisans, pastry chefs, and ice sculptors from across the globe. At the core of this prestigious competition are the principles of integrity, professionalism, and fairness, which extend to all nations participating. The event enjoys the invaluable support of a World Committee of Honour, comprised of some of the world’s most eminent gelato experts. It is organized collaboratively by SIGEP – Italian Exhibition Group Spa and Gelato e Cultura s.r.l.
Breaking new ground, the 2024 Gelato World Cup introduces a new format with teams representing five continents engaging in a demanding gastronomic challenge. After intense national and continental trials, the crème de la crème from each continent will converge in Rimini to compete in five distinct trials: Gelato, Pastry and Chocolate Making, Ice Sculpture, and Haute Cuisine.
Leading up to the main event in January 2024, countries around the world will host their own national selections, contributing to the anticipation and excitement. European contestants will vie for their place in the competition during the European selection rounds in 2023.
“We are proud to enter into this exciting collaboration with the Gelato World Cup, an event that provides such a great opportunity for competition excellence and international camaraderie,” says Ragnar Fridriksson, Worldchefs Managing Director. “We share a common commitment to enhancing the excellence of global cuisines and providing opportunities for culinary professionals in all sectors. We look forward to January 2024!”
Stay tuned for more from the 2024 Gelato World Cup, where culinary excellence takes center stage in a truly international showcase of talent and innovation.
Founded in 1928, the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) represents the largest international membership of food and beverage professionals dedicated to raising industry standards. With over 240 member national chef associations, educational institutions, and F&B companies, Worldchefs is the global voice of culinary professionals.
Paris, 7 September 2023 –The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) has announced the results from the Pacific Rim regional semi-final rounds of the prestigious Global Chef Challenge culinary competition. The competition was held with the participation of chefs from Worldchefs’ member countries across the Pacific Rim. Worldchefs represents the largest international membership of culinary professionals, with over 100 national chef society members.
The top culinary teams from the region showcased their skills, creativity, and craftsmanship through three competition categories: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, and Global Young Chefs Challenge – Hans Bueschkens Trophy. Competitors went head to head for a coveted chance to compete at the Global Chef Challenge Finals during the 2024 Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Singapore.
Final Results:
Results are listed below by category: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, and Global Young Chefs Challenge.
Global Chefs Challenge
First Place: New Zealand
Chef Cameron Davies, New Zealand Chefs Association
If you wish to put your talent to the test, contact your National Chefs Association for opportunities to participate. Visit worldchefs.org/Members for a list of member nations.
Global Chefs Challenge Finals at Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024
Worldchefs Congress & Expo is a hallmark tradition of Worldchefs, and has been organized in 39 cities around the world throughout its illustrious 94-year history. The four-day forum brings together delegates from across the five continents to network and expand their professional bonds. The unique program delivers presentations and workshops from leading experts in the hospitality industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educators’ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, an international trade exhibition, the Global Chefs Challenge competition, and diverse activities to enhance both personal and professional networks.
The 2024 Worldchefs Congress & Expo and Global Chefs Challenge Finals will be held in Singapore, hosted by the Singapore Chefs Association.
Read more in the latest issue of Worldchefs Magazine
From mastering the art of sustainable cooking to embracing the latest technological advancements in the kitchen, Issue 29 is your guide to staying at the forefront of the culinary profession.
See the final results for the Global Chefs Challenge Asia Regional Semi-Finals!
The Asia regional semi-final rounds for the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge culinary competition were held August 2 to 5, co-organized with the 2023 Philippine Culinary Cup alongside the World Food Expo in Manila, Philippines.
Qualifying teams will advance to compete in the Global Chefs Finals during the 2024 Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Singapore.
Paris, 16 August 2023 –The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) has announced the results from the Asia regional semi-final rounds of the prestigious Global Chef Challenge culinary competition. The competition was held alongside the 2023 Philippine Culinary Cup during the World Food Expo in Manila with the participation of chefs from Worldchefs’ member countries across Asia. Worldchefs represents the largest international membership of culinary professionals, with over 100 national chef society members.
The top culinary teams from the region showcased their skills, creativity, and craftsmanship through four competition categories: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Vegan Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, and Global Young Chefs Challenge – Hans Bueschkens Trophy. Competitors went head to head for a coveted chance to compete at the Global Chef Challenge Finals during the 2024 Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Singapore.
Final Results:
Results are listed below by category: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Vegan Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, and Global Young Chefs Challenge.
If you wish to put your talent to the test, contact your National Chefs Association for opportunities to participate. Visit worldchefs.org/Members for a list of member nations.
Global Chefs Challenge Finals at Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2024
Worldchefs Congress & Expo is a hallmark tradition of Worldchefs, and has been organized in 39 cities around the world throughout its illustrious 94-year history. The four-day forum brings together delegates from across the five continents to network and expand their professional bonds. The unique program delivers presentations and workshops from leading experts in the hospitality industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educators’ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, an international trade exhibition, the Global Chefs Challenge competition, and diverse activities to enhance both personal and professional networks.
The 2024 Worldchefs Congress & Expo and Global Chefs Challenge Finals will be held in Singapore, hosted by the Singapore Chefs Association.
Read more in the latest issue of Worldchefs Magazine
From mastering the art of sustainable cooking to embracing the latest technological advancements in the kitchen, Issue 29 is your guide to staying at the forefront of the culinary profession.
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