The Leela Palaces Hotel launch ‘Shefs at the Leela’ program for female chefs

Monday, March 18, 2024

The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts have introduced the ‘Shefs at The Leela’ Programme, a structured culinary development initiative designed specifically for aspiring female chefs. This program not only serves as a pathway to a career in the hospitality industry but also establishes a solid foundation for a long-term profession within The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts in the culinary arts field.

Marking the occasion of International Women’s Day 2024, the ‘Shefs at The Leela’ programme was unveiled during the 5th edition of the event held on March 8th and 9th, 2024, at The Leela Palace Jaipur. This two-day event featured a lavish gala dinner at Mohan Mahal, showcasing a meticulously crafted six-course menu by globally acclaimed female chefs – Chef Rasika Mythily Venkatesa, Chef Tashyaa Mehrotra, and Chef Tejasvi Chandela.

Since its inception in 2022, ‘Shefs at The Leela,’ in collaboration with Dean With Us, has successfully organized editions at various Leela Palaces locations including Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurugram, and Bhartiya City. This initiative was launched to foster equality in kitchen spaces, providing opportunities for women who have completed at least one year of study in hotel management or a reputable culinary program, as well as those aspiring to become chefs or pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the culinary field.

‘Shefs at The Leela’ serves as a platform to celebrate and support women achievers in the culinary industry, aiming to nurture their ambitions by offering growth opportunities that enable them to realize their culinary aspirations.

Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer of The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts said,
“We at The Leela are committed towards building an equitable work environment, that celebrates
diversity and nurtures equity. ‘Shefs at The Leela’ was conceptualized as a platform that appreciates
the achievements of women in hospitality and builds a community that will inspire, encourage and
nurture diversity in our kitchens. With this pioneering initiative and the overwhelming response it has
received, we are now evolving this into a concrete and structured culinary development programme
that will not only solve for a need for diverse and skilled talent within the kitchens but also create a
springboard for aspiring women chefs to follow their passions and fulfil their aspirations to carve a
niche for themselves within the industry.”

The Shefs at The Leela Programme, certified by The Leela, aims to foster personal and professional growth opportunities for participants. Combining academic study with comprehensive on-the-job training, the program endeavors to cultivate the next generation of culinary experts specializing in bakery and confectionary, continental, Indian, and oriental cuisines. Central to its mission is the continuation of the organization’s people-focused ethos, striving for service excellence.

In addition to its core curriculum, The Leela will host quarterly ‘Shefs at The Leela’ events, fostering a vibrant culinary community. These gatherings will feature diverse activities including masterclasses led by industry experts, panel discussions with renowned chefs, and curated dinners prepared by celebrated women chefs. The events will also highlight outstanding achievements through awards ceremonies.

Structured over two years, the ‘Shefs at The Leela’ Programme consists of two phases commencing in Quarter 3 of 2024. Phase One is open to freshers, while professionals may apply for Phase Two based on their caliber. The initial 12-month phase focuses on establishing a foundation of culinary skills and knowledge, while the subsequent 12-month phase emphasizes the refinement and advancement of culinary skills, including shadowing executive chefs.

Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process involving a trade test and comprehensive evaluation. Graduates of the program receive certification from The Leela, prioritized consideration for internal transfers and career progression, and serve as brand ambassadors attending ‘Shefs at The Leela’ events and initiatives as required. Moreover, upon completion of the program and meeting a minimum employment tenure, graduates receive an incentive.

Expanding its mandate, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts now leads training and development initiatives across all organizational levels, with a focus on enhancing gender diversity. The Leela Leadership Development Programme (LLDP), a 15-month initiative, prepares associates in Sales, Butlers, F&B, and Operations for higher positions of responsibility. Female LLDP aspirants not selected in the final round are eligible to apply for Phase Two of the ‘Shefs at The Leela’ programme.

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