Australian Culinary Federation and Nestlé Professional announce inaugural Young Chef Scholarship recipients
/The Australian Culinary Federation (ACF) has announced the recipients of the inaugural Nestlé Professional Scholarship for Young Chefs, recognising two outstanding emerging chefs from across the country.
Awarded across a Merit stream and an Equity stream, each scholarship is valued at $4,000 and is designed to support the next generation of Australian chefs in advancing their skills and careers within the food industry.
The scholarship attracted more than 40 applicants in its first year, with judges noting the exceptional calibre of candidates across both streams.
Ashleigh Handsaker has been named the Merit stream recipient, with Matilda Solecki receiving the Equity stream award.
Ashleigh, a Sous Chef at Irongate Kitchen in the Hunter Valley with nine years of industry experience, said the scholarship represents an important milestone in a career she has worked hard to build.
“Cooking has grown from an interest into a real passion and career path for me”
Ashleigh Handsaker (NSW) – Shortlisted for dedication, skill and a genuine love of the trade.
"Cooking has grown from an interest into a real passion and career path for me. I enjoy the challenge of service, the teamwork involved in a busy kitchen, and the satisfaction that comes from producing food that people genuinely enjoy. Receiving this scholarship will allow me to strengthen my technical skills and continue learning from experienced professionals, so that I can pass that knowledge on to the next generation of young chefs."
Matilda Solecki, a 16-year-old apprentice chef at The Mexican in Maclean, NSW, who is also studying at TAFE Grafton, said the scholarship will make a practical difference to her career journey.
“Cheffing is what I am most passionate about”
Matilda Solecki (NSW) – A standout example of the dedication and heart this stream was built to champion.
"Cheffing is what I am most passionate about. I rely on public transport to get to work and study, and this scholarship will help me get there more reliably, so I can keep learning and working towards the kitchen I want to run one day.”
ACF President Karen Doyle said the response to the inaugural program exceeded expectations.
"The quality and commitment we saw from every applicant made this an incredibly difficult process for our judges. These are young chefs who are committed to the trade and their future in this industry, and we are proud to support them at this stage of their careers."
Nestlé Professional Brand Manager Karlie Durrant said the passion she witnessed from applicants this year was something she won't forget.
"These scholarships are part of Nestlé Professional's commitment to supporting the next generation of chefs, building on the support we provide through the Nestlé Golden Chef's Hat Award. With the hospitality industry facing staff and skills shortages, it's more important than ever to give young chefs opportunities to build their careers, grow their confidence and keep developing the craft they love."
