Education, exposure and enjoyment

The festival is a vehicle for talented people to gain experience and get exposure and for potential products with integrity to get exposure to the tourists and the industry.”  It is not the intention to follow the line of least resistance by donating money and then not knowing where the money goes… but rather to take responsibility, become involved and make sure that action is taken and results achieved.

They say…. that there are great festivals all over the world.

The fact… is that GASTRONOMICA  is the only one ahead of the rest.

The truth…. is that the supporters and organizers of GASTRONOMICA are taking the responsibility to train, develop and direct a new emerging world trend in food production, processing and marketing in an environment of constructive engagement and integration of skills.

Lizell Ferreira producer of the Gastronomica fashion show 2005 has selected and committed to training 20 models from the PDI communities.They will be integrated into the 2006 fashion show.  The candidates will each be issued with a diploma at the closure of the event.

Kate Pullin has selected and committed to the training of 20 people in the hospitality industry.  Gastronomica will contribute proceeds towards the most talented trainees for further training and development at the Mandela Metropolitan University. 

Ten culinary students from the South African Chefs Academy in Cape Town together with lecturer Samantha Waring will be assisting the Gastronomica guest chefs during the nine day festival. The students will learn, see and experience the mindsets and talents of the guest chefs. (Photo: From back Left, Ashley Moss, Kate Richardson, Emile van der Vee, Garth Davids, Ivor Jones, Inge van Rensburg, Carla Bailey, Gina Saban, Samantha Waring (Pastry Lecturer), Raphaella Frame, Daniella Bolle.)

A PDI student has been chosen to practice his profession as a photographer at the Gastronomica under the guidance and leadership of an experienced TV producer and photographer.

Beginner event producers are being mentored, guided and mentored during the Gastronomica.

Last but not least all our locals have the opportunity to learn, enjoy and experience the world’s best talent throughout the Gastronomica.