Springboard Programme: Springboard FutureChef

Year: 2017

“After FutureChef I was around 15 years old. I was still very young but I knew I wanted food in my future. It was at this time, with the encourage of my family I started “Bobby’s Bakes”. My very own baking business. It started off by baking cakes and cookies for friends and family but in a few years I was working with local businesses. And in 2021, I was even recognised by Wise for their 20 under 20, an award given to 20 business owners age 20 and under.

During my teen years I picked up any work I could get related to food: pizza maker, barista and grill chef. I really value my education so I had to balance my passion for cooking and my academics.

When the time came to choose my path for higher education, I decided to study mechanical engineering, another field I was deeply passionate about. Despite my commitment to my engineering studies, my love for the culinary arts remained ever-present. Throughout my time at university, I continued to nurture my culinary skills, using cooking and baking as a way to unwind and explore my creativity amid the demanding coursework.

As fate would have it, “Bobby’s Bakes” continued to grow and gain popularity during my university years. The business expanded beyond my inner circle, reaching customers across the nation. Managing the business alongside my studies taught me valuable lessons in time management, entrepreneurship, and customer service.

Now, with a year left of my degree, though I didn’t take the direct path to a culinary career, I still see food as my future. I continue to create food content online and foster my passion alongside my studies. So when it comes to academics and cooking, you can have your cake and eat it!

Being a finalist on the first season of Young MasterChef holds a special place in my heart. Participating in Young MasterChef was a transformative experience that fuelled my culinary journey. The competition challenged me to push my boundaries, embrace creativity, and strive for excellence in every dish I crafted. Throughout the rigorous challenges, I learned invaluable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and the art of precision in the kitchen.

Becoming a finalist was a testament to my dedication and passion for the culinary arts. The competition not only allowed me to showcase my skills but also provided a platform to learn from some of the most accomplished chefs and industry experts. Including FutureChef alumni and “Queen of Potatoes” Poppy O’ Toole.

Since my time on Young MasterChef, I’ve continued to grow and evolve as a chef. I’ve had the privilege of working with amazing companies and gaining hands-on experience in various culinary styles. The exposure and knowledge I gained from my competition journey have been instrumental in shaping my culinary identity.

However, I believe that true achievements extend beyond accolades and competitions. For me, the most significant achievement has been the ability to share my passion for cooking with others. Whether it’s through my own culinary creations, my online content, or community engagements, I find immense joy in inspiring and encouraging others to explore the magic of the kitchen.

I can’t emphasize enough how crucial they are in shaping the future of culinary excellence and fostering a new generation of talented chefs. Programs like FutureChef provide a platform for young, aspiring chefs to showcase their culinary skills and creativity. By offering a competitive environment, these programs encourage participants to challenge themselves, push their boundaries, and refine their abilities.

It helped build my confidence in the kitchen as I received recognition for my skills and hard work. This confidence extends beyond the kitchen and empowers young chefs to pursue anything they set their mind to.

The culinary arts thrive on creativity and innovation, and these programs nurture and celebrate these qualities. With the help of mentors young chefs are encouraged to experiment with flavours, ingredients, and techniques.

These competitions welcome participants from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and communities. They celebrate culinary heritage, creating an environment that promotes inclusivity and appreciation of different cuisines and cooking traditions.

FutureChef is a catalyst for personal and professional growth, fostering the next generation of cooks. By providing opportunities, support, and exposure, they shape the future of the culinary industry.”