On Friday, October 10, more than 175 students from Colegio EPI, EPB Oranjestad, and EPB San Nicolas took part in the first educational workshop of the Autentico Culinary Festival. This activation is part of the Culinary Education Plan, an initiative by the Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) in collaboration with the festival. The workshop offered students a real-world glimpse into the culinary industry and served as an inspiring platform for their future careers.
Throughout the program, students gained valuable knowledge from various industry professionals. Chef Aldwin Donata, an Executive Chef, encouraged students to pursue careers in the culinary arts, sharing his personal journey and the dedication required for success.
Lorraine Cooyman led a session titled “From Farm to Table”, highlighting the importance of sustainability and local produce in gastronomy. Drawing from her own experience as a farmer, Cooyman introduced students to microgreens, allowing them to taste and take samples home for a hands-on farm-to-table experience.
Zaida Everon, a bread sommelier, demonstrated how bread can enhance the culinary experience. She showcased different bread pairings with local dishes and explained various baking techniques. The session was interactive, as students touched, observed, and tasted the famous sourdough bread.
Jessika Theysen, a wine sommelier, taught students how to pair wines with different dishes and emphasized that serving wine is not just a gesture but an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
The program concluded with Chef Jean Claude Werleman, who performed a live dessert-making demonstration. His session showcased how creativity and technique are essential in preparing desserts and pastries. At the end, students who correctly answered his questions were rewarded with a chance to taste the dessert.
The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) expressed gratitude to all presenters for their valuable contributions and to the participating schools for their active involvement in this successful educational initiative.
Photo credits: https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/mas-cu-175-studiante-a-participa-den-e-prome-tayer-di-autentico-culinary-festival
