TAFE Gippsland cookery student and apprentice chef Jess Fraser has returned from the culinary experience of a lifetime after attending the WorldChefs Congress & Expo 2026 in Wales.
The prestigious international event brought together chefs, industry leaders and innovators from around the globe, providing Jess with the opportunity to connect with world-renowned culinary professionals, explore diverse food cultures and gain valuable insights into the future of the hospitality industry.
Jess (front and centre) taking in the sights with Mum and Australian Culinary Federation mentor Kellie Smith (centre left) and fellow apprentice chefs.
For Jess, one of the most rewarding aspects of the congress was the chance to learn directly from some of the industry's leading figures.
“We could discuss career development, ask questions, learn and feed off the chefs that we – as young chefs – idolise,” she said.
“Beyond the educational program, my favourite experience was the opportunity to spend time alongside chefs from every corner of the world, exchanging ideas, dining together, discussing different culinary traditions, cheering on our countries in competition and making connections that last a lifetime.”
The Australia/New Zlealand contingent at the 2026 WorldChefs Congress in Wales.
Since 1928, the WorldChefs Congress & Expo has united the global culinary community to explore the past, present and future of the profession. Throughout the week-long event, delegates attended presentations, demonstrations and workshops covering topics such as sustainability, leadership and emerging trends shaping the hospitality sector.
Jess said the experience broadened her understanding of the industry and reinforced her passion for pursuing a career as a chef.
“My highlights included participating in a woodland foraging experience, learning more about the sustainable future of our industry and hearing the experiences and knowledge of industry chefs who inspired me to keep pushing myself and reach my career goals,” she said.
Jess joins a long list of successful Gippsland chefs and former TAFE Gippsland students who have attended the international event, which has been hosted in more than 40 cities around the world.
Reflecting on the opportunity, Jess said she was grateful to have represented both her region and the next generation of Australian chefs on the world stage.
“I am beyond grateful for this experience to attend the WorldChefs Congress,” she said.
“It has sparked my drive and passion for not only international competition, but to continue the power of the white jacket and hopefully encourage more people to attend events like WorldChefs Congress to not only better themselves, but to better and grow our industry as well.”
Jess (left) with fellow 'Team Aus/NZ' apprentices flying the flag in Wales.