BC Hospitality Foundation Scholarship Program

The BC Hospitality Foundation has a strong scholarship program. Since 2009 it has awarded 344 scholarships to future leaders in the hospitality industry amounting to over $426,000.

We currently have 6 legacy scholarships which honour dedicated chefs and wine professionals.

In 2022, thanks to the generosity of Jarrett Bachman and James Sledge, we have 2 diversity hospitality scholarships for individuals in the indigenous and LGBT2Q+ communities working in hospitality who wish to further their education in the field.

Would you like to become a sponsor or start a Legacy scholarship? Contact Alana Dickson at alana@nullbchospitalityfoundation.com.

 

0 Bartender and Brewmaster
0 BC WISE
0 Culinary
0 Diversity Scholarships
0 Food and Beverage
0 Hospitality
0 Industry
0 Legacy
0 Special Event
0 Spirits Education
0 Wine Professional (formerly sommelier)

The British Columbia Wine Industry Scholarship and Education Fund (BC WISE) was created in 2020 to support individuals wishing to further their careers in the British Columbia wine industry.

The BC Hospitality Foundation Wine Professional Scholarships are sponsored by wineries and import agencies and they are an opportunity for hospitality workers to increase their wine knowledge through further education. Up to 5 $1000.00 scholarships are awarded every year.

The BCHF is proud to have been chosen by family members to honour their loved ones through a Scholarship Legacy Fund.

We currently have the following Wine Education Legacy Scholarships available:

 

Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship – 2x $4,000

Terry Threlfall Legacy Scholarship – 1x $2,000

 

Up to five are awarded in partnership with the Chefs’ Table Society of BC.

The BCHF is proud to have been chosen by family members to honour their loved ones through a Scholarship Legacy Fund.

We currently have the following  Culinary Legacy Scholarships available:

 

Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship – 1x $2,000

Chef Valerie Soon Legacy Scholarship – up to 2 $1,000

Gia Pastion Legacy Scholarship 1x $1,000

Greg King Legacy Scholarship – 1x $1,500

Hospitality Scholarship applicants must be at least 19 years of age and enrolled in the second or fourth year of a recognized hospitality or culinary program at a partner post-secondary institution.

We do not accept applications for scholarships; instead, respective program deans, chairs, and faculty will select one student from each institution.

The Hospitality LGBTQ2+ Scholarship is sponsored by private donors in the British Columbia hospitality community. It is an opportunity for LGBTQ2+ hospitality worker to increase their knowledge through further education.

The BCHF is proud to have been chosen by family members to honour their loved ones through a Scholarship Legacy Fund.

Scholarship in Memory of Emily Sheane – Graphic Design

 

Applications are open year round

Are you a parent that has been working in the food & beverage, hospitality, or culinary industry (including suppliers and distributors) for at least five years? If so, your child has an opportunity to receive the BCHF Industry Scholarship Award if they have a GPA of 2.5 or higher on the latest transcript and are planning to study any hospitality diploma or degree including hotel/restaurant management, bar tending, sommelier, or culinary institutions.

The BCHF created this award to support families in the hospitality industry.

Open to students interested in adding any spirits education to their hospitality knowledge.

Nominated by KPU, sponsored by BC Craft Brewers Guild through the BC Hospitality Foundation.

KPU’s two-year Brewing and Brewery Operations Diploma was created to meet the unprecedented demand for knowledgeable, trained brewers with an education in brewing science in the rapidly growing craft beer industry.

 

Class of 2023 – congratulations!

Adrienne Friesen
2023 - 2SLGBTQ+ Hospitality Scholarship | Sponsored by Jarrett Bachman and James Sledge

Adrienne Friesen

I'm thrilled and honoured to receive this scholarship! I will be using it to help fund my thesis this summer, where I am writing about winery economics for the UBC Master of Food and Resource Economics (MFRE) program. It feels great to be acknowledged by the BCHF as a new Vancouver resident and I'm looking forward to joining the BC hospitality industry in a professional capacity after graduation.
Alessandra DiMattia
2023 - Val Soon Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Val Soon Legacy Fund

Alessandra DiMattia

I am honored to receive the BC Hospitality Foundation scholarship in honor of Valerie Soon's legacy. Like Valerie, I have a passion for culinary arts and see food as a means to bring people together and create meaningful connections. Going back to school at Okanagan College for Culinary Arts and working at Lakehouse Kitchens cooking school has allowed me to combine my love of teaching with my nutrition and culinary skills. I am humbled each day that get to help our guests master nutritious elevated home cooking. As a registered dietitian, I understand the importance of promoting healthy eating habits. Valerie's focus on fresh, culturally diverse foods for seniors in care is an inspiration to me, and I hope to follow in her footsteps by using my culinary skills to make a positive impact on people's lives. I am grateful for this scholarship opportunity, which is helping me further my education and career goals in the hospitality industry.
Andreas Deutschmann
2023 - Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Ryan/Grant Family

Andreas Deutschmann

This is absolutely amazing - I am very honoured to have been selected for the Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship this year! I have been in the wine industry in BC for nearly fifteen years now, and have continued to delve deeper and deeper into my wine education. While seeking this knowledge is done out of passion it has been quite an expensive ordeal. Receiving this scholarship will help me to continue in my studies and I hope in turn, I may someday be able to reciprocate this great gift to young wine professionals in the future. Thank you, I am so very grateful!
Andrew Forsyth
2023 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Hester Creek

Andrew Forsyth

It is such an honour to be selected for this scholarship and I am truly grateful for the generous support of the BCHF and their partners for helping me continue my education. I am planning to use this scholarship to complete my Italian Wine Scholar program and to help with my preparations for the CMS Advanced exam. Thank you all. Your support means the world!
Angelica Hsu
2023 - Greg King Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Greg King Family

Angelica Hsu

I am very grateful for being selected as one of the recipients of the Greg King Scholarship from BCHF. It has given me the ability to invest further in my culinary studies and work closer towards my dream of opening a pastry shop. Since I was around 8 years old, the baking and pastry arts has always held a special place in my heart. It has allowed me to create unique desserts and baked goods to connect with people, including friends, family, and new people I meet. I am soon to be a student at the Pacific Institute of Culinary arts. Having the help and support of BCHF, it excites me to think of all the upcoming experiences!
Charles Ferguson
2023 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by BCHF

Charles Ferguson

I plan to buy good quality equipment that will last me my whole cooking career. Whether it be knives or utensils, this money will help me be able to try new techniques and broaden my culinary knowledge.
Chiara Zlatović-Diewald
2023 - Gia Pastion Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Gia Pastion Legacy Fund

Chiara Zlatović-Diewald

Thank you so much for this opportunity. I am so very grateful and honoured to be able to continue Gia’s legacy.
Chloe Sy
2023 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by BCHF

Chloe Sy

I would like to give a huge thanks to the BCHF for awarding me with this scholarship. I hope to use this grant to help me improve and advance in my culinary career. Thank you again to everyone who was involved!
Chris MacKay
2023 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Hester Creek

Chris MacKay

So grateful to be awarded this scholarship, and to be a part of this amazing community!
Chris Turyk
2023 - Terry Threlfall Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by (2023 Scholarship by Andrew Peller), Meyer Family Vineyards and Terry Threlfall Legacy Fund

Chris Turyk

Thanks so much to the BCHF and scholarship sponsors for this honour! I look forward to diving further into my wine studies.
Colton Armstrong-Ashley
2023 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by BCHF

Colton Armstrong-Ashley

Much appreciated. I’m looking forward to leveraging this scholarship into more experience. It feels great to be recognized and be better set up for taking on more training.
Donatella Gray
2023 - Gia Pastion Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Gia Pastion Legacy Fund

Donatella Gray

Thanks so much to the BCHF and scholarship sponsors for this honour! I look forward to diving further into my wine studies.
Elsie Carlson
2023 - Industry Scholarship | Sponsored by Michael Willingham Legacy Fund

Elsie Carlson

Being awarded with this Scholarship is an exciting and encouraging opportunity that will benefit me greatly in my future education. I can’t wait to learn more about the Tourism Industry, meet new people, and make a difference in people’s lives, allowing them to experience the amazing outdoors and wildlife that I was lucky enough to grow up around here in the Bella Coola Valley.
Jacqueline Stahlbrand
2023 - Emily Sheane Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Joe Fortes and Moraine Estate Winery

Jacqueline Stahlbrand

I am extremely grateful to be selected for this scholarship opportunity. This financial aid will help me build my design business and career to new levels. My condolences go to the family and loved ones of Emily.
Jason Yamasaki
2023 - Tony Ryan Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Ryan/Grant Family

Jason Yamasaki

Thank you very much for this generous scholarship. I'm looking forward to using this to expand my ability to impact the world of education, wine, mentorship, and hospitality in British Columbia.
Jenna Thompson
2023 - Val Soon Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Val Soon Legacy Fund

Jenna Thompson

Thank you very much for this award. These funds will go directly towards my training in Level 3 towards my Red Seal Certificate.
Jessica Giroux
2023 - Spirits Education Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Cocktail Week

Jessica Giroux

I am very honoured to have been chosen for the Spirits Education Scholarship. The excitement I have learning about spirits and working in this industry for so many years is enormous. Receiving this generosity will help me on my journey continuing to learn and share my knowledge with others for many more years to come. I humbly thank everyone involved and look forward to what the future holds!
Joe Casson
2023 - Spirits Education Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Cocktail Week

Joe Casson

Most of what I love about the hospitality industry is the endless pursuit of knowledge with the phrase "the more you know, the less you know" being so true. I firmly believe professional growth happens when putting oneself in a room with those who know more than you. My continued education will be exactly that. I'll be able to soak up all of the modern thinking & wisdom from highly regarded teachers with like minded people. Furthermore, I wish to one day use my love, energy & enthusiasm to show peers what care deeply about, hopefully inspiring the future of our industry.
Kayla Brent
2023 - BC WISE Scholarship | Sponsored by Quails' Gate

Kayla Brent

When I received the e-mail notifying me that I had been selected to receive the BC WISE scholarship, I was immediately overcome with excitement, relief, and gratitude. The financial burden of tuition has been the biggest barrier to me pursuing further wine education. Having an organization like the BC Hospitality Foundation tell you that they support your career choice and want to help you along your journey is incredibly validating. It is truly an honour to be joining the ranks of all the wonderful people this organization has promoted throughout its history.
Lucas Butters
2023 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by BCHF

Lucas Butters

It is an honour to be presented with this award, thank you so much!
Lydia Lambert-Bailey
2023 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by BCHF

Lydia Lambert-Bailey

I’m hugely grateful for the support that BCHF is giving for my continued studies in Culinary Arts. I hope to use my learnings to develop the plant-based food scene further, both creatively and technically, within BC through my ongoing work for the regions best restaurants.
Michelle Haynes
2023 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Hester Creek

Michelle Haynes

I am incredibly grateful to be receiving the Wine Professional scholarship which will allow me to continue my wine education. I have already enrolled in Wine Scholar Guild's French wine scholar course and cannot wait to get started. Thank you to the BCHF for providing these opportunities to help our community keep growing and learning!
Ngoc (Cassidy) Nguyen
2023 - Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Jarrett Bachman and James Sledge

Ngoc (Cassidy) Nguyen

I am thrilled and honored to be a recipient of Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship from BCHF. Thank you very much for awarding me with this incredible scholarship. Your generous financial support is making it possible for me to pursue my passion and journey in this very competitive industry.
Richard Metcalfe
2023 - Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship | Sponsored by Jarrett Bachman and James Sledge

Richard Metcalfe

I am very grateful for the scholarship and I indent to use it to further my culinary education.
Sofia MacDonald
2023 - BC WISE Scholarship | Sponsored by Poplar Grove

Sofia MacDonald

Thank you so very much! I am so pleased and honored to be able to pursue a formal wine education. Special shout out to Lisa Haley for taking me on at the Sutton Place Wine Store and all my lovely coworkers who have encouraged and helped me along the way 🙂
Stephanie Chan
2023 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Andrew Peller

Stephanie Chan

Thanks so much to the BCHF and scholarship sponsors for this honour! I look forward to diving further into my wine studies.

Class of 2022 – congratulations!

Melissa McKinney
2022 Spirits Education and Food & Beverage Scholarships | Sponsored by Vancouver Cocktail Week - Lulu Spritz and Beach Bum

Melissa McKinney

I’m so grateful to be in the Spirits & Hospitality industry with its strong community foundation. Receiving this scholarship is a long term blessing that I am honoured to have been chosen for. I look forward to completing my Distilling program and sharing that knowledge back into our community. Thank you very much to all those involved. The impact is great, and my gratitude is endless. Thank you to everyone involved in this wonderful blessing! Teaching about whisky has always brought me such joy. Now by once again furthering my own education, with the assistance of the Food and Beverage scholarship, I am given the opportunity to continue learning & sharing with our community!
Alex Palmer
2022 Spirits Education Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Cocktail Week

Alex Palmer

The opportunity of beginning my career in the Spirits Industry came about through the fortunate intersection of timing and friendship; with the birth of my daughter and the end of my career in the culinary and food industries. Ampersand Distilling was growing to the point of having a potential position available for an Assistant Distillery Operator and I was excited to take on the opportunity. Coming from the hospitality industry, in both large hotels and small restaurants, I am keenly aware that we can bring much joy to the world through our daily creations. This does not happen without purposeful intent and great care. Thank-you BCHF, your support in my educational endeavors with the Institute of Brewing and Distilling is very much appreciated.
Kelcie Jones
2022 Terry Threlfall Legacy Scholarship

Kelcie Jones

I’m thrilled to be able to introduce myself as a student again, having benefitted enormously from your organization’s support in terms of scholarships and community event support in years past. For the past five years as Wine Director of Chambar Restaurant, I have managed a large team and wine program and led a team of four sommeliers to win three consecutive Platinum awards with the Vancouver International Wine Festival. It was always my goal to hire a young and diverse team of sommeliers, and I was proud to introduce young people to the world of wine on my team and in the greater community. Thank-you BCHF.
Jessica Coverini
2022 Emily Sheane Legacy Scholarship - BCIT | Sponsored by Joe Fortes and Moraine Estate Winery

Jessica Coverini

I'm very honoured to have been awarded this scholarship. A huge thank you to BCHF, BCIT and the Sheane family for this distinct privilege, and a further kudos for being able to turn a tragedy into a means to breathe hope and support into the lives of young people in BC.
Cole Tennyson Krahn
2022 Greg King Legacy Scholarship

Cole Tennyson Krahn

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the King Family for honouring Greg in this profound way. I, too, have always had a passion for cooking, scents and taste. My first "signature dish" was the "Happy Sandwich" which I created when I was 8.  One of my top goals for the coming years is gain enough education to earn a position alongside a professional chef working the line at a reputable restaurant. My desire is to remind everyone that food is not just something to eat, but something we can fully enjoy!
Markus Kruse
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - BCIT | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Markus Kruse

Thank-you to the BC Hospitality Foundation for this recognition. I would also like to thank the Boothroyd Nation of Boston Bar for their support during my scholarly pursuits. During my studies at BCIT, I was able to apply my previous experience from working in hospitality towards this diploma. I have a love and appreciation for the hospitality industry, and plan to stay working in the industry upon completion of this program.
Simona Celano
22 Hospitality Scholarship - Capilano University | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Simona Celano

My passion for travel and tourism can be traced back in 2005, when I traveled abroad for the first time. My experience at Capilano University and Vancouver have been amazing and I can not wait to start putting into practice everything I am learning and, of course, exploring this wonderful country.
Manjinder Kaur
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - College of New Caledonia | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Manjinder Kaur

Receiving this scholarship is like a dram coming true which will aid me in completing my goal of being part of the hospitality industry. Thank you!
Jhonna Lyn Valerio
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - College of the Rockies | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Jhonna Lyn Valerio

I’m in so much awe that you considered me to be a recipient of the scholarship and I would like to give a huge thanks to the organization and to the sponsors who are eager to support people to prosper in the field of hospitality. This was such an awesome experience that I will surely cherish.
Jessica Naske
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - Douglas College | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Jessica Naske

I would love to have the same opportunity in any one of the fantastic hotels in BC; first working my way up into a supervisory role in Rooms and then, a more senior leadership role before someday taking on the role of Director Rooms Division. While it may seem like a lofty goal, I’m confident the education I’ve received at Douglas College will help me achieve it. In addition to my studies, I've volunteered with the Douglas Students Union (DSU) at social events for students and as a bartender for Sleipner Lodge 8, a chapter of the Sons of Norway. In my free time, I enjoy heading to local breweries and trying new beers, exploring trails, and perusing art galleries or museums.
Darian (Quang-Anh) Bui
2022 - Hospitality Scholarship - Fairleigh Dickinson University | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Darian (Quang-Anh) Bui

Initially, I was an introverted individual who would almost always prefer to stay out of small conversations, and more of a logical thinker, which should be opposite to what we do for excellent customer service. However, the idea of bringing great experiences to the customers of hospitality and tourism businesses piqued my interest. Studying and working in the industry for the past four years has helped me hone my social and managerial skills.
Brianna Chapman
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - Okanagan College | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Brianna Chapman

Around 4 years ago I found my love for the wine tourism sector. Living in the Okanagan has allowed me to immerse myself in the wine and hospitality culture here and learn as much as I can in the process. I am passionate about continuing my post-secondary education and exploring how I can make an impact throughout my career.
Akshat Tariyal
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - Selkirk College | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Akshat Tariyal

My long-term goal is to own a resort somewhere in Canada where I will be able to utilize my skillset to provide unparalleled guest experiences and to contribute towards society by creating a better place to live and work.
Anastasiia Lutsenko
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - Thompson Rivers University | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Anastasiia Lutsenko

I attended an educational exhibition where I learned about work on cruise ships. I realized that this experience could be useful in my life and I took action. I went through the interview process and was successful.
Hosanna Banting
2022 Hospitality Scholarship - Vancouver Community College | Sponsored by BC Hotel Association

Hosanna Banting

When I first heard about the program, the word “hospitality” made me think about “hospitals”, so I wasn’t that excited…but when I started to look at the courses within the program, I was surprised to see I would learn about Tourism, Restaurant Operations, Principles of Service Management and many more. I said, “No way! I’m actually interested in these courses!”
Jimena Perez Valencia
2022 - Hospitality Scholarship - Camosun College | Sponsored by Greater Victoria Hotel Association

Jimena Perez Valencia

Upon graduation, I plan to continue as a Housekeeping Supervisor at my current workplace for one more year and then seek other opportunities in another department within the BC hotel industry. I would also like to expand my network, perhaps by attending more work events and alumni events whenever it´s possible. In the meantime, I will keep exploring the wonders that Victoria has to offer.
Ashley Martin
2022 - Hospitality Scholarship - University of Victoria | Sponsored by Greater Victoria Hotel Association

Ashley Martin

I’m a Vancouverite born and raised, continuing to pursue my educational and career path passions on the beautiful B.C. west coast at the University of Victoria. Currently, I am a Fourth-Year student in the Peter B. Gustavson Business School Bachelor of Commerce Program. By my graduation, I will receive a Dual Specialization BCom Degree with a primary focus in Service Management and a secondary in Entrepreneurship. My most ambitious dream would be one day taking over the resort with a small cosmetics side business of my own being sold in the spa’s shop.
Joyal Mathew
2022 - Hospitality Scholarship -Vancouver Island University | Sponsored by Greater Victoria Hotel Association

Joyal Mathew

I am deeply honored and thankful for being selected as a recipient to BC Hospitality Foundation Future Leaders Award 2022. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all my Professors from VIU who have nominated me for this award, my sponsor and everyone from BCHF from who make this award possible for us students. Looking forward to contributing from my end in the future towards BCHF. Thank you so very much for being here for us.
Talal Kouri
2022 - Hospitality Scholarship - Royal Roads University | Sponsored by Greater Victoria Hotel Association

Talal Kouri

I am very excited to have been given this opportunity to receive this scholarship. It is truly an honor to be recognized for my efforts in the hospitality industry.
Sara Campbell
2022 - Event Management Scholarship | Sponsored by MPI BC Chapter

Sara Campbell

As a restaurant industry veteran of over 20 years, the pandemic made me pivot in my career. After being out of school for over two decades, I made the decision to attend BCIT for Sustainable Event Management. I have been working non-stop over the last year and a half, and receiving this scholarship is such an honour! BCHF is an incredible foundation for the industry here in British Columbia. I have known a few industry people who have had help from the foundation when they have had health issues that have prevented them from working. For the next 40 days, BCHF is hosting a virtual hospitality hustle and I have signed up to hopefully pay forward some of what I have been awarded so that others can receive scholarships from the BCHF. I am so thankful for this award and excited to see where this new career path will take me in our industry.
Jaedyn Dionne
2022 - Chef Nik Lim Scholarship and Food and Beverage Scholarship

Jaedyn Dionne

With over three years of experience in the industry, I took a break from the restaurant industry for a little over a year due to covid-19. I greatly missed being a part of the culinary world, and I’m eager to be back in the industry that I know and love. I believe I would make a good candidate because of how much I enjoyed and thrived working at previous restaurants. I am currently enrolled in the Grand Diploma Culinary and baking & pastry arts programa in the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts. Thank you SO MUCH for this scholarship!
Leila Pourshahriary
2022 - Culinary Legacy - Valerie Soon Scholarship

Leila Pourshahriary

I am attending my grade 12 year at Delta Secondary School. I found out about this scholarship through my culinary and baking teacher Ms. Lori Pilling. I love to cook and bake. Ever since I was young, I dreamed of becoming a chef. I would constantly cook and bake at home, aspiring to create the same things that chefs and bakers did in the cooking books I read. Therefore, I decided to become a red seal chef and baker.  I recently completed the Youth in Trades program at VCC for Baking and Pastry Arts. Thank you for this scholarship. It will help further my culinary education.
Autumn South
2022 - Culinary Legacy - Valerie Soon Scholarship

Autumn South

Since my grade 10 year of high school, I worked in my school’s culinary arts class. By grade 12, I became the head baker and made all the decisions in our bakery. Throughout my time in the program, I have learned so much about baking; from preppy for large groups, to making tiramisu, and perfecting the macaron. Although these tasks intimidated me in the beginning, I can confidently say that I now feel very skilled and knowledgeable about the field.  I am particularly passionate about giving back to those less fortunate than me and using my passion for baking to bring others happiness when they need it most. Some of my favorite days in the kitchen were the ones leading up to a charity bake sale, or a holiday dinner.   I want to thank all of the amazing sponsors for this very generous culinary arts scholarship, I am incredibly grateful. A career in culinary arts has always been my dream. Until recently that’s all it’s been, just a dream. But in spite of all the challenges life has recently thrown at me, my dream is starting to become a reality. And it wouldn’t be possible without amazing opportunities like this. So thank you for believing in my dreams as much as I do. I can’t wait to see where they will take me!
Vanessa Cristina da Silva
2022 - Culinary Legacy - Chef Kristofer Bihis Scholarship

Vanessa Cristina da Silva

My name is Vanessa, I am a first-year Culinary Arts Management student at Okanagan College in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. I am particularly passionate about to make people happy by creating dishes that surprise the palate and make the act of eating a meaningful and thrilling experience. I am very excited about the possibility of becoming a professional cook. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) Culinary Scholarship and to Chef’s Table Society for choosing me among so many other students as a recipient of this award. Also I want to thank Chef Reinhard Foerderer from Okanagan College, Kelowna, for his recommendation, a brilliant Chef and an excellent instructor always very polite, kind and willing to help everyone who comes to him. And I still would like to thank everyone else involved in awarding this scholarship. Thank you very much!
Amelia Rudelsheim
2022 - Culinary Scholarship

Amelia Rudelsheim

I’m extremely grateful to have been presented this opportunity by the BCHF and the sponsors of this scholarship. I look forward to working with the BCHF and furthering my passion for the culinary arts through this scholarship.
Mitchell White
2022 - Legacy Culinary - Chef Kristofer Bihis Scholarship

Mitchell White

Ever since I was 4, I was helping my mother in the kitchen, and by the time I reached the age of 7 I could cook for myself, and ever since I've been practicing my cooking, and knife skills. I enrolled in the cafeteria for one semester in high school, and that did teach me lots, but so far being in university has also taught me many new skills, and I am always practicing the skills, everyday that I can to perfect it. I want to thank you all of the sponsors for sponsoring this award, and thank you so much for selecting me, I am very grateful.
Nicholas Ryan
2022 - Legacy Culinary - Chef Kristofer Bihis Scholarship

Nicholas Ryan

I’ve been cooking at a very young age and food has always been my passion. My first job was working as an intern at Ritz Carlton Jakarta when I was 16 and I instantly fell in love with the kitchen atmosphere. As an International student in Vancouver, I am particularly excited to apply to this scholarship as this can help me a lot through my studies and in my future career. I gained several memorable experiences in Vancouver Island University. One of them is participating in the Oyster Challenge at Deep Bay Center For Seafood Innovation. In the challenge, I had to create a dish using shucked oyster and I was the runner up for it. The dish I created was “Deep Fried Oysters with Indonesian Salsa and Fragrant Rice”. Not only did I learn to use a new ingredient that I was not really familiar with but, I also got to learn the ways of preserving and harvesting oysters. Thank you BCHF for choosing me for this scholarship. I am very honoured to receive it. With this scholarship, this will definitely help me further in my career and studies.
Kelly-Marie Rampersad
2022 - Legacy Culinary - Chef Kristofer Bihis Scholarship

Kelly-Marie Rampersad

As a newly graduated chef, foodie, and food blogger, I hope to continue my culinary school studies this summer with my acceptance to Le Cordon Bleu London to further educate and grow my knowledge in the art of patisserie. As a chef, I believe that possessing the knowledge of both culinary and patisserie skills can be an asset in the kitchen of any restaurant establishment. I hope to grow my skills and versatility for the future ahead of me with the education I hope to receive. With a passion for the culinary arts and eagerness for the hospitality industry I hope to seek a career that harmonizes my love for both industries. As an aspiring young chef venturing into the world of food science and technology, I sincerely thank BCHF and its donors for selecting me for this prestigious award. Not only am I thankful for this scholarship in funding my educational goals, but for motivating me to continue my journey in the food and restaurant industry.
Josh McBratney
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by White Spot

Josh McBratney

For the past 3 years, I have worked at the Cactus Club Café in West Vancouver. Starting as a dish washer, I quickly transitioned to Line Cook, Prep Cook and into my current position as a Jr. Sous Chef. During this time, I learned the value of each role and the important contribution they make in running an efficient well-organized kitchen.   Following graduation with PICA, my goal is to gain experience in fine dining. Within the next 3 years, I hope to move to France to further my training in classical French techniques before returning to Vancouver to fulfill my ultimate dream of owning my own restaurant.  Thank you kindly.
Kate Gonzalez
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by L'Abattoir

Kate Gonzalez

First and foremost I am honoured to be one of this year's recipients of the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) Culinary Scholarship. Thanks to your generosity, I am able to invest in more books, as well as an updated toolbox. My dedication and passion for culinary arts has not only allowed me to freely express myself through food, but also motivates me to be a part of the change in todays industry as a young woman in the kitchen. I would like to acknowledge Northwest Culinary Academy for helping me on this journey. The biggest test of my potential came when the pandemic began, and a lot of my co-workers were let go. Being the only cook in the kitchen at the time was a test of confidence of what I can accomplish as a young chef. It exposed me to a lot of hard challenges, such as how to adapt to different circumstances, enduring long hours, practicing patience as well as being constantly under a microscope by all the senior sous chefs. This was an opportunity for me to step up as a leader and level up my techniques with precision in the kitchen. It was my responsibility to train new cooks, coordinate with the chefs for service, and overall be the most reliable cook the chefs could trust. I was then promoted to Chef de Partie and awarded Employee of the year.
Bogdan Pyasta
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by San Pellegrino

Bogdan Pyasta

I have chosen to pursue culinary arts because cooking has been a passion of mine since I was a child. Even though I have attended university and have other certification, I still want to pursue culinary arts. I have been a registered massage therapist for over 10 years, and finally feel like I am ready to follow my dream of being a chef. I would like to become a red seal chef in the near future. It’s been my passion since I was little, when my grandmother first taught me the basic Ukrainian cuisine. There is a constant learning curve in the culinary arts, and that is what I enjoy most about this profession. Twenty-five years ago was the start of my culinary journey, and now I am finally able to pursue my dream. Thank for believing in me and helping me achieve my dream being a chef.
Ellianna Dyble
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by San Pellegrino

Ellianna Dyble

Thank you so much to my sponsor! I am so great full for the support to help me further my culinary career.
Jenna Kwan
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by San Pellegrino

Jenna Kwan

Thank you so much for this scholarship award. This award will help me greatly as I pursue my passion in the Culinary and Pastry Industry.
Lam Le
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by San Pellegrino

Lam Le

It is my honor to have received your scholarship for Culinary student. I want to send a big thank to our sponsors who help us a lot. I know my Culinary journey is just beginning, and it will be a tough and long path. But with your supports and my efforts I believe I can make it a fun and interesting trip I have ever had in my life. In addition, I have just been in Canada for almost a year, therefore there are tons of things I can explore in the future. Again, thank so much and all the best wishes for you
Kristel Dened Morales Alfaro
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Food and Beverage Relief Fund

Kristel Dened Morales Alfaro

First of all, thank you to the BCHF for selecting me for the scholarship I promise this will be a completely worth it decision. To my sponsor I would like to thank you for being so generous and sponsoring my education for Culinary Arts. It truly means too much to me to help me in the beginning of my dream. Again, thank you so much for your generosity. I am so grateful.
Madeleine Holub MacDonald
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Food and Beverage Relief Fund

Madeleine Holub MacDonald

I am so grateful to have received this award and given the chance to apply myself for this bursary; it will make a difference in my future culinary journey and education.
Mona Cantlie
2022 - Culinary Scholarship | Sponsored by Vancouver Food and Beverage Relief Fund

Mona Cantlie

Throughout my life I have always approached all endeavors with great passion. I have always worked hard and achieved much as a result . I hold a diploma in animation , an advanced diploma in marketing and a Bachelor of business administration ; I completed all of these with excellent final marks. My love for cooking professionally, however, was always a secret passion because in Persian culture this is seen as servants work. I enjoyed learning all of my previous studies but now that I have finally made the move to become a chef in culinary world I have realized I didn't know what real joy and passion for anything me ant until now. The Culinary Arts have captured me like no subject before, driving me even harder and more fervently to learn and perfect this craft which has always been my passion . I see in it chemistry, emotion, and science . The flavours I master are colours on the canvas, to be mixed , blended and understood to please the senses. I never miss an opportunity to learn and grow, and with the financial aid offered by your scholarship, I will be able to carry my culinary skills to the next level.
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by The View

Van Doren Chan

I’m writing with gratefulness and honor to receive the generous of BC WISE Scholarship awarded towards my Winemaking and Viticulture study with UC Davis. I have completed the winemaking courses and currently enrolled in the viticulture portion of the program. Upon the completion, I will be qualified to further my oenology study with the university, and it will lead me one step closer to my career goals. By awarding me the scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus on the most important aspect of learning.
Lisa-Marie Weizert
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Antinori and Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Laughing Stock Vineyard

Lisa-Marie Weizert

Our industry has been through some rough times the past 2 years, and we have all had our own struggles. Thank you, BC Hospitality Foundation, and to all the donors for supporting people in the industry chasing their dreams. I am deeply honoured and grateful to be chosen as recipient.
Jeremy Chai
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Township 7

Jeremy Chai

I am sincerely grateful to have been selected to receive the BC WISE scholarship that you have sponsored for. It is an absolute honour to journey through recommending your products at JAKs and to now be able to receive a scholarship from you. The scholarship means a lot to me as it will not only help pay off some of my loans for my education but allow for further learning in the future. Thank you again!
Nikolas Wilson
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Unsworth

Nikolas Wilson

Thank-you for awarding me with the BC WISE Scholarship! This award will help enable important research into grapevine drought tolerance and its impact on fruit and wine quality.
Laura Lasby
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Quails' Gate

Laura Lasby

Thank-you for awarding me with the BC WISE Scholarship! This award will help enable important research into grapevine drought tolerance and its impact on fruit and wine quality.
Zola Dore
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Nichols

Zola Dore

“ I am sincerely grateful for the assistance from BCHF sponsors to make the BC WISE Scholarship possible. I am passionate about the BC wine industry, and being able to pursue certification in Wine Business from Sonoma State University’s on-line program will help to create a more sustainable career. I am also passionate about sharing information, so will strive to mentor other women in the industry.”
Ian Casterton
2022 - BC WISE scholarship | Sponsored by Poplar Grove

Ian Casterton

A big thank you to the BCHF and to all the generous sponsors. It is initiatives like these that empower individuals to grow while providing a safety net for our beloved, hard working, industry. Thank you, truly.
Andreane Ansay
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Andrew Peller

Andreane Ansay

I want to thank the BCHF organisation to give me the opportunity to expend my knowledge on wines, this scholarship will be put to use everyday and I will be able to share my new knowledge with my guest and coworkers on a daily base.
Reverie Beall
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Andrew Peller

Reverie Beall

I am overjoyed to accept a BCHF Wine Professional scholarship and am so grateful for the opportunity to continue to expand my knowledge and be part of this wonderful community! Thank you BCHF and sponsors!
Tara Faucher
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Checkmate

Tara Faucher

Thank you to all the volunteers and sponsors! I am beyond excited to further my education in this industry and your support is greatly appreciated.
Noel Hollett
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Checkmate

Noel Hollett

What a fantastic privilege to receive this Scholarship!  Thank you to everyone involved in BCHF, from organizers to volunteers who help make this such a supportive community.  Thank you for this opportunity which will not only help as I continue my studies, but I fully intend to pass on the experience to others as I learn!
Sean McLaughlin
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Da Silva Winery

Sean McLaughlin

My journey as a wine professional has its nascent roots as far back some of my earliest childhood memories with my father. My father loves wine. When hosting dinner at our home I distinctly remember him, and his guests, being totally captivated in their conversations about the wine they were enjoying. As a child I obviously did not understand what they were drinking but I certainly understood that these strange elixirs held some extraordinary powers: the power to make the calm and collected adults smile, laugh, cheers each other. I was drawn to my father’s interest in wine and soon was helping him with his hobby as a amateur winemaker. Although the wine my father made wasn’t exactly of the finest quality he took meticulous care and notes, experimenting as he could, and as young as eight years old I enthusiastically helped him fill and seal the bottles with a floor corker.
Trina Moran
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Da Silva Winery

Trina Moran

This is great! Thank you! I want to thank all the sponsors and the BC Hospitality Foundation for supplying these scholarships. Also, thank you to Glowbal for all their support and encouragement over the years and to Marc Reichertz for all the wisdom.
Maia Pearson
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Hester Creek

Maia Pearson

“A huge thank you to the BCHF and the sponsors of this scholarship. I’m immensely grateful for this recognition and I’m excited to continue pursuing my career in wine.”
Mary Catherine Vecko
2022 - Wine Professional scholarship | Sponsored by Hester Creek

Mary Catherine Vecko

Wine and travel remain my two highest priorities, professionally and personally. For me, wine with food illustrates the oldest form of human togetherness: sharing a meal while being social. At the nexus of wine, food, and travel is the key to making these experiences not only pleasurable, but also profitable. When not working, I am tasting wines from lesser known regions of the world, such as Lebanon, Slovenia, Georgia, Hungary, and Moldova. My favorite wine is the one I have not yet tasted. Thank you to BC Hospitality Foundation and the sponsors for this amazing Wine Professional Scholarship! With gratitude, Mary Catherine
Jordan Westre
2022 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Laughing Stock Vineyard

Jordan Westre

Our industry has been through some rough times the past 2 years, and we have all had our own struggles. Thank you, BC Hospitality Foundation, and to all the donors for supporting people in the industry chasing their dreams. I am deeply honoured and grateful to be chosen as recipient.
Ben Liegey
2022 - Hospitality LGBT2Q+ Scholarship | Sponsored by Jarrett Bachman and Ben Sledge

Ben Liegey

Thank you so much! I am very grateful my application to the BC Hospitality Foundation LGBT2Q+ Scholarship program was successful. A special thank you to Jarret Bachmann & Ben Sledge! As an Onboard Host for the Rocky Mountaineer and CEO with Rethink2gether, this grant is a fantastic opportunity. A fantastic opportunity to learn from the course HOSP 2820 from Vancouver Community College, with hotel experts. A fantastic opportunity to leverage profitable decision-making tools like Breakeven Analysis and Menu Engineering. A fantastic opportunity for me to provide even more value to the Canadian hospitality industry. I am convinced that my passion for helping hotels be more sustainable, my experiences as a gay hospitality worker in BC and my dynamic approach turned toward action will help maximize the impact of this grant. I am on a mission to help commercial kitchens prevent food waste and improve the bottom line. Thank you very much!
Nikki Callaway
2022 - Wine Professional Scholarship | Sponsored by Corcelettes

Nikki Callaway

I’m grateful of the fact that I am continuously learning and striving to create an outstanding product.  And that at each step of my journey, I’m able to share this knowledge and passion with my peers and mentor a younger generation of Canadian winemakers.  I am a firm believer in continuing education, regardless of age and experience and have applied for the Viticulture Diploma at Washington State University. Thank you for this scholarship!