Nestlé Professional, in collaboration with the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) and the Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria, marked International Chefs Day 2024 by championing healthy eating and creativity among Nigeria’s young generation.
The annual event, celebrated on October 20, embraced this year’s theme, “GROWING GREAT CHEFS” and brought together 10 professional chefs and 40 children from Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) beneficiary schools in Agbara, Ogun State. The children participated in hands-on cookery workshops, using nutritious ingredients like spinach, potatoes, carrots, and rice. This immersive experience allowed the children to add their personal touch and creativity to cooking while discovering new ways of enjoying food without compromising on nutrition.
Funmi Osineye, Business Manager at Nestlé Professional, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “The wellbeing of children is a top priority for parents, caregivers, and a key marker of societal progress. At Nestlé, we are dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders to improve the health of future generations through nutrition education and the ongoing provision of high-quality, nutritious food and beverages. Today’s event serves as a vital platform for inspiring children to explore their creativity with food.”
Since 2014, Nestlé and the Association of Professional Chefs Nigeria have collaborated on this commendable initiative, fostering healthier nutrition habits among children to ensure a healthier future.”
Chef Udemezue Okoli, Coordinator, Lagos Branch of the Association of Professional Nigeria, expressed his excitement about the event: “We are thrilled to spend time with these children, teaching them the benefits of a healthy diet in a fun and engaging way. Every year, Nestlé Professional raises the bar through its investment in the food service industry, especially by supporting the development of chefs, promoting Nigeria’s food tourism, and inspiring the next generation of culinary talent.”
The day featured various activities, including the popular Junior Master Chef session, where the children were challenged to complete cooking tasks with a creative twist. The highlight of the event was the showcase and presentation of the children’s culinary creations, which impressed the enthusiastic audience of chefs, educators, and guests.
One of the participants, Blessing Peter, a pupil of Salvation Army Primary School, Edu, Agbara expressed her excitement on being selected to be part of the event. “I am so happy to have been chosen for this event. I really enjoyed creating new recipes with sweet potatoes, chicken and vegetables and I want to share what I have learnt with my family. On behalf of all the students here today, I want to thank Nestlé Nigeria’s for this opportunity to learn so much and have fun”.
The children were encouraged to share their learning and to take part in preparing meals with their families. Each participant received fruit colouring books courtesy of Nestlé Professionals, to serve as reminders of the fruits and vegetables used during the session.
This event is part of Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to helping 50 million children globally live healthier lives through its flagship program, Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK). By engaging children in fun, educational activities, the company continues to foster healthy habits, creativity, and a love for cooking.