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University hosts first-of-its-kind Welsh hospitality competition to promote next generation of talent

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) hosted Wales’ first ever Young Chef Young Waiter competition at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea on Tuesday. In a MasterChef-style event, eight young professionals living in Wales and working in the Hospitality sector battled for the chance to become the Welsh champions who’ll attend the upcoming global final in Monaco.

The winning Chef was Ali Halbert, 26, of Heaneys, and the winning Waiter was Tilly Morris, 21, of Grove of Narberth. An expert judging panel, made up of 10 of Wales’ leading hospitality figures, observed every step of the process and passed on wisdom and advice to help contestants develop their skills. In addition to impressing the ten judges, the competitors prepared and served a three-course lunch to 16 industry experts who assisted in the judging process based on their overall experience.

An award ceremony and gala dinner was held in the evening to announce the winners, during which contestants’ families and members of the Welsh Hospitality sector gathered to enjoy food and entertainment, providing individuals and businesses from the length and breadth of Wales’ vibrant food scene with an opportunity to network and socialise since the pandemic.

Winner of the Waiter category, Tilly Morris, says: “It’s been such a great experience and I’ve learnt so much from working in this way with people I didn’t know before I arrived. I’m so excited and a little bit speechless, but I can’t wait to represent Wales in Monaco! Today’s been the best day of my life!”

UWTSD’s mission is to be a University for Wales, with a commitment to the well-being and heritage of the nation at the heart of all that we do. Central to our vision is the promotion and embedding of a dual-sector educational system which educates learners of all ages and backgrounds, and stimulates economic development in our region, across Wales and beyond.