Anchor™ Food Professionals Celebrates 25 Years of Culinary Excellence with Proud to be a Chef 2025 Finalists

Anchor™ Food Professionals, in collaboration with Fonterra, proudly unveils the fnalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef program.

Marking its 25th year, this premier foodservice mentoring initiative continues to champion the growth of Australia’s most promising apprentice chefs, fostering innovation and excellence in the culinary arts.

Ann Boulton, 18yo from Grafton, one of the Finalists for the 2025 Proud to be a Chef Program

A cohort of 32 passionate young chefs from across the nation has been selected for the transformative, all-expenses-paid program, taking place in Melbourne in February 2025. Over four immersive days, participants will engage in exclusive feld tours, masterclasses, and mentoring sessions with industry luminaries, culminating in one standout apprentice receiving the prestigious $7,500 culinary scholarship. This tailored scholarship is designed to accelerate the winner’s culinary career and inspire a new wave of foodservice leaders.

Leading the charge is Proud to be a Chef ambassador and mentor George Calombaris, who returns to the program 25 years after claiming its inaugural title in 1999. Joining him are Executive Chef Mark Normoyle of Anchor™ Food Professionals and pastry mentor Angelica Iuliano, Group Pastry Chef at MoVida and Co-Chair of the Victorian Young Chefs Club. Together, this powerhouse trio will guide the fnalists through hands-on workshops, fne dining experiences, and personalised career insights.

“This program transformed my life and career,” said George Calombaris. “Now, as a mentor, I’m thrilled to help nurture the next generation of chefs. These young talents are the future of Australian cuisine, and I can’t wait to help them unlock their potential.”

Angelica Iuliano echoed the sentiment, adding, “Proud to be a Chef is a one-of-a-kind initiative that challenges young chefs to push their boundaries and grow both professionally and personally. I’m excited to see the creativity and passion this year’s fnalists bring.” Finalists were chosen for their originality, passion for the craft, and career aspirations, as demonstrated through innovative recipes featuring Anchor™ Food Professionals products.

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Among the standout participants is 18-yearold Kira Ann Boulton from Grafton, NSW, who is set to represent her community on the national stage.

As the program celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary, it remains committed to nurturing emerging talent and celebrating the artistry of Australian cuisine. For more information on Proud to be a Chef and its legacy of culinary mentorship, visit proudtobeachef. com.