Every young chef deserves guidance, encouragement, and the opportunity to grow with the support of those who have walked the path before them.
In recognition of World Youth Skills Day, Worldchefs is proud to introduce the new Young Chefs Mentorship Program Toolkit, a practical resource created to help National Chef Associations build structured mentorship opportunities for young chefs in their communities.
The toolkit offers associations a clear starting point to connect young chefs with experienced culinary professionals, turning mentorship into a more accessible and consistent pathway for learning, confidence-building, and career development.
Why Mentorship Matters
Supporting young chefs means investing in the future of the culinary profession. The early years of a culinary career can be exciting, but also demanding: young chefs are finding their voice, building confidence, and learning what it means to grow within a team, a kitchen, and a wider professional community.
Mentorship helps make that path less solitary. It creates space for guidance, honest exchange, and shared experience, while strengthening the connection between generations of chefs. This is the spirit behind the Young Chefs Mentorship Program Toolkit: helping associations create more structured opportunities for young chefs to feel supported, stay engaged, and develop into future industry leaders.
For more on young chef development and the pathways that can support the next generation, watch Jasper Jek, Chair of the Worldchefs Young Chefs Development Committee, in his session from Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026here.
Start Building Your Mentorship Program
Ready to create more opportunities for young chefs in your association? Start by downloading the Young Chefs Mentorship Program Toolkit and using it as a practical guide to shape an initiative that fits your local community.
The toolkit gives National Chef Associations a clear starting point to recruit mentors, invite young chefs to take part, match participants, guide the first meeting, and support the journey over time. It is structured enough to help associations begin with confidence, while remaining flexible enough to adapt to local needs and resources.
Inside, associations will find editable documents and PDF versions, including mentor recruitment forms, mentee application forms, mentor profile forms, first meeting guides, activity kits, and evaluation forms.
With this toolkit, Worldchefs invites National Chef Associations to turn mentorship into action, creating stronger pathways for young chefs to learn, connect, and lead!
Mark Your Calendars: International Chefs Day is October 20th!
Each year on October 20, chefs around the world come together to celebrate International Chefs Day. Founded in 2004 by the late Chef Dr. Bill Gallagher, this global tradition honors the culinary profession and its role in inspiring, educating, and supporting the next generation through food.
For International Chefs Day 2026, Worldchefs and Nestlé Professional are bringing back the Food Explorers campaign and taking it a step further. Building on the enthusiasm and success of last year’s activities, the campaign returns with a strong focus on ingredients, encouraging people of all ages to explore what goes into their food, where it comes from, how it is grown or harvested, and why it matters.
And that’s where you come in. Every chef, in every corner of the world, has something to teach. By sharing your knowledge, skills, and passion for food, you can help future chefs become curious, confident Food Explorers.
Get involved
To help you get started, visit worldchefs.org/internationalchefsday and download the 2026 Food Explorers Toolkit. The toolkit includes step-by-step workshop guides, user-friendly recipes using Nestlé Professional’s Hero Ingredients, posters, certificates, and more.
Use these resources to create an activity that works for your community, whether it is a short classroom moment, a hands-on cooking session, a garden visit, a sustainability activity, or a full-day celebration.
October 20 is the official day, but the whole month of October is yours to make it happen. Together, we can continue shaping a healthier, more sustainable future, one young chef at a time.
The International Chefs Day Committee is here to support you with ideas, resources, and inspiration. Thank you for helping children discover the world through food, health, sustainability, and the joy of cooking.
Let’s make 2026 another inspiring International Chefs Day for future chefs around the globe!
Warmest Culinary Regards, Vanessa Marquis CEC AAC, Chairman International Chefs Day Committee “Preparing future chefs for a Healthy Life!” internationalchefsday@worldchefs.org
Inspiring a new generation of food explorers through International Chefs Day, we celebrate the creativity, achievements, and global participation that shaped this year’s events.
International Chefs Day 2025 continued the annual tradition of empowering children through culinary education, hands-on food exploration, and meaningful community engagement.
With participation across more than 80 countries, the “Food Explorers” theme sparked creative events led by thousands of chefs dedicated to supporting healthier futures.
This year’s celebrations featured workshops, school collaborations, cooking sessions, and community-led activities that helped strengthen the global impact of International Chefs Day. Learn more about International Chefs Day and its legacy here.
Paris, 15 December 2025 – The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) is proud to share the outcomes of this year’s International Chefs Day.
Celebrated on October 20th, International Chefs Day 2025 brought chefs and communities together around the world to inspire children through hands-on cooking, culinary discovery, and lessons on healthy eating. From classroom cooking sessions to community gardens, chefs in more than 80 countries helped hundreds of thousands of children explore food, nutrition, and culinary skills.
Thanks to the long-standing collaboration with Nestlé Professional, thousands of culinary professionals were equipped to deliver creative workshops and activations, bringing imagination, curiosity, and flavor to food education.
Empowering Children Through Hands-On Learning
Using this year’s “Food Explorers” theme, chefs around the globe delivered creative, locally tailored workshops. Activities ranged from sensory workshops to farm-to-table lessons, all designed to spark imagination and promote lifelong healthy eating habits.
Drawing from the 2025 global activity reports, the scale and energy of participation were remarkable:
The success of International Chefs Day 2025 has been nothing short of extraordinary, with thousands of our dedicated chefs worldwide transforming kitchens into vibrant classrooms under the ‘Food Explorers’ theme. By igniting young minds with the joys of healthy, sustainable cooking and the magic of local ingredients, we’ve not only honored our craft but sown the seeds for a generation of culinary innovators. To every chef who participated: your passion fueled this global initiative, and together, we’re preparing children for healthier lives.
Vanessa Marquis, CEC, AAC Chair, Worldchefs International Chefs Day Committee
A Lasting Legacy, A Growing Movement
International Chefs Day continues to reflect the late Chef Dr. Billy Gallagher’s belief that chefs can help build brighter futures for children. After more than two decades, it continues to flourish because of the passion and generosity of culinary professionals dedicated to sharing their knowledge with the next generation.
Nestlé Professional has played a critical role in supporting them and International Chefs Day through educational materials, toolkits, recipes, and creative assets that help chefs host impactful community activities. This long-standing partnership continues to broaden the reach and accessibility of food education for children worldwide.
Share Your 2025 International Chefs Day Events
Whether your International Chefs Day activity was large or small, every event contributes to our shared impact. If you hosted a workshop this year and haven’t had the chance to share it yet, we’d love to hear from you.
Submit your 2025 events so we can continue to spotlight global International Chefs Day activations.
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 skills in 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.
Mark Your Calendars: International Chefs Day is October 20th!
Each year on October 20th, chefs around the globe come together to celebrate our profession and share our passion with the next generation. Since 2004, International Chefs Day, founded by the late Chef Dr. Bill Gallagher, has been a moment to give back, educate, and inspire.
On behalf of Worldchefs and Nestlé Professional, we’re excited to unveil this year’s theme: Food Explorers. This campaign invites children to embark on a culinary journey — discovering where food comes from, learning to prepare simple, healthy dishes, and cultivating curiosity, creativity, and a lasting appreciation for good food and sustainable practices.
Whether it’s a cooking workshop, a garden visit, or just a moment of food-filled fun, every experience counts. Through your leadership, you can help children explore healthy eating, sustainability, and the joy of cooking, one bite at a time.
To get started, visit worldchefs.org/internationalchefsday and download the 2025 Food Explorers Toolkit, packed with everything you need: step-by-step workshop guides, fun recipes using Nestlé Professional’s Hero Ingredients, posters, certificates, and more.
We encourage you to host a workshop on or around October 20th, but any day in October can be an opportunity to share knowledge and create a meaningful experience with kids in your community.
Together, let’s shape a healthier, more sustainable future, one young chef at a time. Be sure to share your photos and videos with us at internationalchefsday@worldchefs.org and tag your posts with:
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Thank you for your continued passion and dedication. Let’s make 2025 the biggest and most impactful International Chefs Day yet!
Culinary Regards, Vanessa Marquis CEC AAC, Chairman Worldchefs International Chefs Day Committee “Preparing Children for a Healthy Life”
What is the most inspiring aspect of International Chefs Day? What motivates you to get involved?
“For me, it’s about promoting our profession and sharing the joy and enthusiasm of cooking with children. International Chefs Day provides a meaningful opportunity to bring that passion to the world.”
How can chefs around the world get involved in this year’s International Chefs Day?
“Even small steps can lead to a big impact. Consider organizing a simple gesture to celebrate the day — something meaningful for your customers or team. For example, you could create a special item like “International Chefs Day” cupcakes and share a photo of your initiative. It’s a great way to participate, spread awareness, and inspire others to join in.”
Chef Tilak Senaratne of Sri Lanka
What is the most inspiring aspect of International Chefs Day? What motivates you to get involved?
“International Chefs Day unites chefs around the world to use their skills for a greater purpose—especially in educating and uplifting children through food.”
If you could describe International Chefs Day in one word, what word would you choose?
“Inspiring”
Chef Badya Khaireddin of Syria
How can chefs around the world get involved in this year’s International Chefs Day?
“Make an online workshop together and record videos and share it on social media for awareness!”
If you could describe International Chefs Day in one word, what word would you choose?
Celebrating two decades of advocacy and community engagement through International Chefs Day, we reflect on its history, the achievements and memorable moments of this year’s events, and its global impact.
International Chefs Day 2024 marked its 20th anniversary, uniting chefs in over 100 countries for a day of advocacy under the theme “Growing Great Chefs”.
The celebrations featured impactful activations and events large and small, including workshops, events at the Worldchefs Congress in Singapore, and widespread community engagement.
Learn more about International Chefs Day and its legacy here.
Vanessa Marquis, CEC, AAC Chairman of Worldchefs International Chefs Day Committee “Preparing Children for a Healthy Life”
Paris, 28 November 2024 – As the World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs) commemorates the 20th anniversary of International Chefs Day, we are thrilled to share the incredible outcomes of this year’s celebrations.
Launched in 2004 by the late Dr Bill Gallagher, International Chefs Day has become a pivotal platform for chefs worldwide to unite in fostering education, sustainability, and the love of cooking among future generations.
A Milestone Anniversary with a Purpose
This year, International Chefs Day adopted the theme “Growing Great Chefs,” reflecting a dedication to inspiring curiosity, creativity, and sustainable practices in the culinary arts. Activities spanned across the globe, uniting chefs and communities to celebrate the art of cooking while promoting the importance of healthy eating and environmental responsibility.
The 20th anniversary was marked with vibrant celebrations and impactful initiatives. Chefs in over 100 countries organized workshops, demonstrations, and interactive events to engage children and communities. These initiatives highlighted the power of culinary arts to shape healthier and more sustainable futures.
Remarkable Results from a Global Effort
This year’s campaign connected with nearly 150 thousand participants globally, a testament to the enduring power of International Chefs Day. From large-scale events in culinary hubs to smaller community gatherings, each activation contributed to a shared mission of building a healthier, more sustainable future through food.
279 events
5,865 chefs and young chefs
149,220 children reached
Vanessa Marquis, Chairperson of the Worldchefs International Chefs Day Committee, shared her thoughts: “For 20 years, International Chefs Day has brought together chefs from every corner of the globe to engage with children for a better future, using their craft to educate and empower. It’s inspiring to see how they’ve prioritized this initiative, finding creative ways to participate, even beyond the official date of October 20th, to make a positive impact on children’s health.”
Worldchefs President Andy Cuthburt added, “International Chefs Day is a celebration of our profession and its potential to influence the world for good. This anniversary reminds us of the incredible unity and creativity within our community and the bright future we are building together.”
Growing Great Chefs at Worldchefs Congress 2024
During the 40th Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Singapore, an International Chefs Day workshop on October 19th and a special speaker session on October 20th celebrated this landmark year. Attendees explored practical approaches to culinary education and sustainability, with engaging discussions captured in our YouTube recap.
Community Highlightsfrom Around the World
A diverse range of activities showcased the creativity and passion of the global culinary community. From hands-on cooking classes for children to educational sessions on urban farming, the reach and impact of this year’s initiatives continue to inspire.
For over a decade, Nestlé Professional has partnered with Worldchefs to bring International Chefs Day to life. This collaboration began in 2014, with a shared mission to inspire and educate children about healthy eating habits while promoting sustainable food practices. Through their dedicated efforts, Nestlé Professional has helped to expand the reach and impact of International Chefs Day, ensuring that its message resonates across global communities.
Nestlé Professional also provides a toolkit to support chefs in hosting their International Chefs Day events. This resource includes detailed instructions, educational materials, recipes, and social media tips, ensuring that participants have everything needed to create impactful and engaging activities. The complete 2024 toolkit is available for download and can be used as an educational resource long after the 20th of October.
The Legacy of Dr. Billy Gallagher
The late Dr. Billy Gallagher, affectionately known as the “Father of International Chefs Day,” was instrumental in shaping this global celebration. As a former president of the Worldchefs, his vision extended beyond the kitchen, aiming to unite chefs worldwide in a shared mission of education, mentorship, and sustainability. Dr. Gallagher’s passion for the culinary arts was matched by his belief in its power to bring about meaningful change. International Chefs Day stands as a tribute to his legacy, fostering a global movement that champions healthier, more sustainable practices and inspires future generations to carry forward his remarkable vision.
As we close this year’s chapter, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every chef, partner, and participant who brought International Chefs Day 2024 to life. Together, we are growing great chefs and shaping a brighter future.
Watch our 20th Anniversary Video to see the highlights and celebrate this milestone achievement.
Looking Forward
As we move forward, chefs everywhere can leverage Worldchefs’ resources to continue making a difference for the next 20 years and beyond.
Explore educational materials, podcasts, webcasts and more available on Worldchefs website.
Take the free sustainability course with the Worldchefs Academy for training and professional development opportunities to strengthen your impact.
Stay connected with a free Worldchefs account on Hosco for the latest industry updates and stories from our global chef community.
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.
Mark Your Calendars: International Chefs Day is October 20th!
Over the years, Worldchefs has partnered with Nestlé Professional to inspire children worldwide to embrace healthy eating through engaging, fun-filled workshops. This year, we continue our commitment with the International Chefs Day campaign, themed Growing Great Chefs.
Teaching our children about the impact of food production and consumption on the environment is essential to ensuring a healthy life and planet for future generations. That’s why our focus for International Chefs Day remains on sustainability, environmental stewardship, growing gardens, and fostering healthy eating habits.
Together, we can make a difference!
Let’s give the children in our communities something to celebrate and enjoy with their friends. Join me and chefs from around the world on or around October 20th to host a fun and exciting event, or create a short video to share on social media. Every child can benefit from this experience, and now more than ever, it’s crucial to share the joy of learning about and enjoying healthy food!
To get started, visit www.worldchefs.org/internationalchefsday and download the toolkit and recipes. These resources will help you organize and launch your International Chefs Day 2024 Workshop. The toolkit includes everything you need, from instructions and materials to recipes, games, and tips for growing a garden. Remember, no workshop is too small or too large. Dedicate some time this October and share a special moment with children.
In 2004, the late Dr. Bill Gallagher established International Chefs Day to celebrate our profession and pass on our knowledge and culinary skills to the next generation. It is our legacy to inspire children to get excited about healthy food and our industry.
If you plan to host a Growing Great Chefs workshop, the entire International Chefs Day Committee is ready to support and guide you. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.
Vanessa Marquis, CEC, AAC, Chairman Worldchefs International Chefs Day Committee “Preparing Children for a Healthy Life!” internationalchefsday@worldchefs.org
Mark Your Calendars: International Chefs Day is October 20th!
Nestlé Professional and Worldchefs are delighted to unveil the theme for this year’s International Chefs Day campaign, titled “Growing Great Chefs.” In memory of the Late Chef Dr. Bill Galagher, a visionary in the culinary world, this campaign aims to share our noble profession with children around the globe, inspiring little ones and the new generation of aspiring chefs.
International Chefs Day, celebrated on October 20th each year, brings together culinary professionals worldwide to promote the art and science of cooking. This year’s theme, “Growing Great Chefs,” provides a passion for mentoring young minds and nurturing culinary talent.
The campaign’s focus is to introduce children to the joys of cooking and the world of gastronomy through an array of engaging activities and educational resources. Nestlé Professional and Worldchefs have collaborated to create a comprehensive toolkit packed with innovative recipes, an interactive game, and a fun-filled approach to starting a garden.
The key to fostering culinary excellence lies in providing children with early exposure to the art of cooking. Through ‘Growing Great Chefs,’ we aim to ignite the imaginations of children, encouraging them to explore the wonderful world of flavors, textures, and cultures found in culinary arts.
The toolkit provided by Nestlé Professional and Worldchefs offers accessible and enjoyable ways to help children understand the intricacies of cooking. It includes recipes tailored for children, highlighting simple yet delicious dishes from various cultures. The matching game is designed to make learning about ingredients an exciting adventure.
Furthermore, the campaign emphasizes sustainability and responsible food practices by incorporating a gardening component. Children will learn about growing their ingredients, understanding the value of fresh produce, and connecting with nature through planting and nurturing their very own gardens.
Nurturing the culinary passions of young minds is a truly rewarding experience. We are proud to honor the legacy of the Late Dr. Chef Bill Galagher through this campaign, bringing joy and knowledge to children worldwide and fostering the development of future great chefs.
The “Growing Great Chefs” campaign promises to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for cooking among children from all walks of life. By sharing the joys of the culinary profession, Nestlé Professional and Worldchefs hope to leave a lasting impact on young hearts, nurturing the potential of future culinary leaders.
Being a chef can be a hectic life. However, even spending just 5 minutes or 2 hours with your child, a student, or another child in your community can make a positive impact. If you are busy on October 20th, consider taking some time on any other day in October to connect with them.
Please share with us your fun moments, workshop experiences, or the beginning of your garden by sending us your pictures and/or videos via email. Don’t forget to use the hashtags below. Join me and thousands of chefs in October by Preparing Children for a Healthy Life!
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