Announcing the 2021 winner of the Diplomado de Cocina Creativa.
Earlier this year, I shared the story of Elvis Hidalgo, a talented 25-year old from San Francisco de Macorís in the Dominican Republic, who became the first winner of the Diplomado de Cocina Creativa–a training program I sponsor for young people at the INFOTEP School of Hospitality, Gastronomy, and Pastry.
The prize was a scholarship for a 5-week training course at the world-renowned Basque Culinary Center in Spain. And while COVID-19 delayed his attendance, Elvis was able to complete–and thrive in–his courses.
I am thrilled to announce that we recently completed the Diplomado de Cocina Creativa’s second year, and crowned Luiyi Antuan as our winner.
In a class that was filled with exceptional students, Luiyi stood out among his peers for his commitment, attention to detail, and beautiful staging abilities. Like Elvis, Luiyi will soon be heading to Spain to continue his education with some of the most renowned chefs in Basque cuisine.
In two short years, this program has already become one of the initiatives I am most proud of. I am excited and honored to see and foster passion for gastronomy in young people, and look forward to watching their ongoing development and success.
Congratulations to Luiyi and the entire group who participated in the Diplomado de Cocina Creativa this year, I know you will all accomplish great things.
Danilo Diazgranados is an independent investor in the global food and wine, financial services, real estate, and the hospitality sectors.
