The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition has officially launched its seventh edition, opening applications for young chefs worldwide on February 16, 2026. This esteemed global initiative aims to discover and support culinary talent under the age of 30, inviting aspiring chefs to showcase their skills on an international stage.
A Global Platform for Culinary Talent
The competition is not merely a contest; it serves as a comprehensive platform for fostering creativity and helping young chefs develop their culinary identity. Participants from across the globe will have the opportunity to gain valuable exposure and mentorship through connections with influential figures in the culinary world.
Chefs are grouped into 15 regions, with selections made by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. The competition culminates in 15 Regional Finals, where regional winners will advance to the Grand Finale. Throughout the process, chefs will be evaluated based on their technical skill, creativity, and personal philosophy.
New Mentorship Initiative Enhances Opportunities
This edition introduces a mentorship initiative, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to supporting chefs beyond the competition. Ardy Ferguson, the Global Winner of the 2024–25 edition, will benefit from a dedicated mentorship experience. He will spend three weeks working alongside esteemed chefs Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan, both of whom served as judges in the previous competition.
“The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience and has provided me with opportunities in ways I couldn’t have imagined,” said Ferguson. “Being able to continue learning with chefs I admire so much is incredible, and it allows me to keep pushing my craft and building on everything the Academy offers as I continue to grow as a Chef.”
This mentorship is designed to provide meaningful guidance and inspiration for young chefs considering participation in the competition. They will witness firsthand the dedication and creativity that define the culinary arts at the highest level.
For those interested in applying, further information about the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition can be found at sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com. This competition not only seeks to identify future culinary stars but also aims to cultivate a supportive community that nurtures the next generation of chefs.
Founded with a vision to enhance culinary culture, S.Pellegrino continues to prioritize sustainable practices in its operations, emphasizing the importance of water as a vital resource. The ongoing commitment to supporting young talent in the culinary field reflects the brand’s dedication to enriching the gastronomic landscape.
