S.Pellegrino has officially announced the opening of applications for the seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, one of the world’s most influential platforms dedicated to nurturing young culinary talent.
Open to chefs under 30 from around the world, the competition continues its mission to discover, support, and elevate the next generation of culinary voices—empowering them to express their unique identity and help shape the future of gastronomy.
More Than a Competition
A Platform for Long-Term Growth
Since its launch in 2015, the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has evolved beyond an international competition into a global community that connects emerging chefs, mentors, and industry leaders.
Rather than focusing solely on results, the Academy offers a comprehensive support system that spans before, during, and after the competition.
Through mentorship, access to global industry networks, and cross-cultural exchange, participants are encouraged not only to refine their technical skills but also to develop their creative voice and personal philosophy.
For young chefs in China, the Academy represents more than a chance to compete internationally—it serves as a platform to express cultural identity and tell personal stories through cuisine.
To further support local engagement, a series of activation events will take place across Shanghai, Chengdu, Beijing, and Guangzhou starting this April.
These include roundtable discussions, chef-led sharing sessions, and in-person networking opportunities—allowing aspiring participants to connect with former jurors, past winners, and industry professionals, and to transition from ‘competitors’ to active contributors within the culinary community.
Voices from the Academy
Liu Chang, Head Chef of GIADA Garden and China Champion of the 2016 S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, reflects on his experience:
“Looking back, the process mattered more than the result. During that time, you constantly question yourself—why this dish, why you, and what does it represent?
“That level of reflection fundamentally changes the way you cook.”
He adds that winning the competition helped him better understand his identity as a chef:
“It gave me clarity and confidence to pursue my own direction. More importantly, the Academy offers something beyond a stage—it’s an ongoing influence that connects you to a larger global conversation and opens up new possibilities.”
Mentorship Beyond the Competition
As a key pillar of the Academy, the mentorship program continues to expand, extending its impact well beyond the competition itself.
Ardy Ferguson, Global Winner of the 2024–2025 edition, will take part in an exclusive mentorship exchange program. He will work closely with internationally acclaimed chefs Julien Royer, Chef-Owner of Odette in Singapore, and Jeremy Chan, Chef-Owner of Ikoyi in London, through an immersive three-week collaboration.
This initiative provides young chefs with meaningful, hands-on guidance while reinforcing the Academy’s role as a bridge between individual development and the broader evolution of the industry.
Wu Rong, founder of Meet the Bund and a jury member for the 2024–2025 edition in China, comments:
“The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is not just a culinary competition, but a meeting point of global culinary perspectives.
“It encourages young chefs to step outside their comfort zones—to explore sustainability, redefine contemporary taste, and go beyond simply replicating tradition.”
Jacqueline Qiu, Director of F&B Operations, Greater China & Mongolia, Hilton, and a long-time Academy jury member, shares her message for this year’s participants:
“Trust that your perspective is unique. This competition doesn’t ask you to become someone else—it asks you to become more fully yourself.
“Be honest in expressing your understanding of ingredients, your memories of place, and your vision of the future, all on the plate.”
From China to the Global Stage
Applications for China officially opened on April 13, and remain open until June 9.
Eligible chefs under the age of 30 are invited to apply via the official platform, submitting a signature dish that reflects their technical skills, creativity, and personal philosophy.
The competition is structured across 15 global regions, with initial selection conducted by ALMA, The School of Italian Culinary Arts.
Shortlisted candidates from China will advance to the regional finals, with the regional winner representing China at the Grand Finale.
In addition to the main title, three special awards will also be presented, recognizing achievements in social responsibility, cultural heritage, and the ability to express personal beliefs through cuisine.
Shaping the Future of Gastronomy
The seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is now underway—in search of the next young chef who will express themselves through food and help shape the future of gastronomy.
This time, voices from China are once again ready to be heard on the global stage.
For applications and more information, please visit sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com or scan the QR code below:
S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna
S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna, and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., based in Milan, Italy.
Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors across five continents, these products represent quality and excellence by virtue of their origins, and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health, and well-being.
With its iconic products and a history of over 120 years, Sanpellegrino is the leading company in Italy in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, offering a wide range of mineral waters, aperitifs, and soft drinks.
Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this essential resource for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure a secure future for it.
[All images courtesy of S.Pellegrino]
