It’s National Apprentice Week! And here at TAFE Gippsland, we’re celebrating one of our rising stars.
Entering the chat, Jesse Payne – a TAFE Gippsland commercial cookery apprentice fresh off the back of the 2026 Proud to be a Chef Program – an intensive four-day experience that brings together some of the most promising apprentice chefs from across Australia and New Zealand.
Jesse showing off her skills in the Proud to be a Chef program.
During the program, Jesse rubbed shoulders with the who’s who of the of Australia and New Zealand’s culinary world, learning from industry leaders including Executive Chef Mark Normoyle, renowned chef and TV personality Sarah Todd and celebrated pastry chef Gareth Whitton.
L-R: Proud to be a Chef mentors Gareth Whitton, Mark Normoyle and Sarah Todd.
Star power aside, Jesse said it’s an experience she’ll never forget.
“It was an honour to be able to spend four days immersed in masterclasses, cooking challenges, farm visits and in the company of such inspiring industry mentors,” Jesse said.
“Every participant brought something different to the table so being able to connect with apprentices from all different backgrounds was amazing and I learned so much in just four days.”
Now in its 26th year, the Proud to be a Chef Program selects just 32 apprentice chefs to take part in the highly competitive experience. Participants compete for several awards, including the program’s top honour — an international culinary scholarship valued at more than $10,000.
Jesse was quick to acknowledge the talent around her.
“The winners were well deserving, and I can’t wait to see what they do in the future,” she said.
A special Proud to be a Chef moment for all 32 participants and mentors.
TAFE Gippsland Hospitality Program Manager Vince Fede says that, on behalf of the entire team, opportunities like this are essential in shaping and inspiring the next generation of chefs.
“Apprentices being able to connect with chefs of this calibre is extraordinary,” Vince said.
“They’re able to take what they learn and apply those skills in their own environments, and there’s nothing more rewarding than watching emerging chefs grow and unlock their potential through strong mentorship.”
TAFE Gippsland is proud to support apprentices like Jesse as they build skills, confidence and industry connections — and shine a spotlight on the power of vocational education during National Apprentice Week.
For more information and a list of the 2026 winners and finalists visit the Proud to be a Chef website.