The winners of the 2022 Diplomado de Cocina Creativa.

It’s been three years since I had the opportunity to help launch the Diplomado de Cocina Creativa–a training program for young people hosted by the INFOTEP School of Hospitality, Gastronomy, and Pastry in the Dominican Republic.

This year, twenty talented youngsters spent eight weeks expanding their culinary knowledge through training and working with some of the country’s finest professionals and teachers. I’m happy to announce that after two months of a talent-filled program, Audry Orangel Brito Nolasco was selected as the 2022 winner.

Audry never gave up throughout the arduous program. The San Pedro de Macorís native won a full scholarship to study at Spain’s renowned Basque Culinary Center. I am proud and excited that Audry has the fantastic opportunity to hone his skills in Europe–the cradle of world gastronomy.

Geral Pio Bentez from San Pedro de Macors and José Andrés Peguero Guzmán from La Romana took second and third place, respectively, and both won gastronomic internships in the Dominican Republic.

Congratulations to Audry and all of his incredible peers who participated in Diplomado de Cocina Creativa this past year. It’s been an honor to watch your progress and I can’t wait to see what you accomplish!

Danilo Diazgranados is an independent investor in the global food and wine, financial services, real estate, and the hospitality sectors.