IGCAT is proud to announce that Chef Joan Roca has been chosen as the official Ambassador for the Young Chef Award programme.
A Renowned Chef Supporting Young Talent
The celebrated chef of El Celler de Can Roca served as President of the Jury at the European Young Chef Award 2016. He was impressed by the high level of skill and commitment shown by the ten regional finalists.
Joan Roca praised the initiative, stating that it “highlights the richness and diversity of European gastronomy while recognising chefs for their role in ecology and sustainability.” He also underlined the importance of gastronomy as a bridge that connects regions and supports local producers.
2016 European Young Chef Award Finalists
The finalists represented awarded and candidate European Regions of Gastronomy:
- José Manuel Zafra – Catalonia, 2016
- Andrei Iosif Micle – East Lombardy, 2017
- Edgars Balodis – Riga-Gauja, 2017
- Mikkel Kjølhede – Aarhus-Central Denmark Region, 2017
- Jan van Hout – North Brabant, 2018
- Shane Sheedy – Galway-West of Ireland, 2018
- Daniel Joarza – Sibiu, 2019
- Stamatios Misomikes – South Aegean, 2019
- Mikko Tiihonen – Kuopio (Candidate), 2020
- Leon Pintarič – Slovenia (Candidate)
The Regional Chef Ambassador Programme
After the competition’s success, IGCAT established the Regional Chef Ambassador Programme. Through this initiative, young chefs commit to:
- Promoting regional agriculture and sustainable production methods.
- Showcasing regional and local food products that are wholesome and healthy.
- Raising awareness of health and sustainability through their cooking.
- Innovating traditional recipes in creative and respectful ways.
- Supporting local festivals and food traditions in their regions.
- Promoting local food cultures as a source of inspiration and innovation.
- Encouraging dialogue and cooperation across the hospitality chain.
Joan Roca’s Role as Ambassador
Dr. Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT, expressed that “having Joan Roca as Ambassador is a great honour and an inspiration for young chefs. His commitment motivates regional chefs to champion local cultural and food diversity.”
About IGCAT
IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) coordinates the European Regions of Gastronomy Platform and organises the Young Chef Award with the support of European institutions. The organisation’s mission is to help leaders in cities, regions, and cultural projects unlock the potential of their food, culture, and arts for sustainable tourism and regional development.
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