The Culinary Scholars (our future talent) are playing a key role in the 2025 Charleston Wine + Food Festival

By Mark A Leon

Empowering the next generation of culinary leaders! The CHSWF Culinary Scholars Program impacts 1,000+ students across 9 schools, offering 500+ hours of hands-on training, mentorship, and paid externships.

The 2025 Charleston Wine + Food Festival, running from March 5–9, showcases not only the region’s rich culinary heritage but also its commitment to fostering future culinary talent. This year’s festival highlights the participation of culinary scholars, whose involvement underscores the event’s focus on education and workforce development in the food and hospitality industry.

Culinary Scholars at the Festival

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival has long been a platform for nurturing young talent. Through initiatives like the Culinary High School Scholars Program, students from Charleston County School District and beyond gain hands-on experience in the culinary field. This program combines classroom learning with real-world training, offering mentorship and paid externships under the guidance of top chefs. Over 1,000 students have benefited from this initiative, which prepares them for careers in the industry while earning certifications like ProStart.

Additionally, partnerships with institutions like the College of Charleston and Culinary Institute of Charleston provide college students with opportunities to participate in internships and fellowships. These roles span event planning, logistics, marketing, and culinary support, ensuring students gain comprehensive industry exposure.

Scholarships and Career Development

The festival’s commitment to education extends to financial support through scholarships. The Charleston Wine + Food Excellence Scholarship is awarded to College of Charleston students pursuing degrees in Hospitality and Tourism Management. This initiative ensures that aspiring professionals receive both academic and practical support as they prepare for careers in the Lowcountry’s thriving culinary scene.

Signature Events Featuring Culinary Talent

Culinary scholars play an active role in several signature events during the festival:

• Culinary Village (March 7): A cornerstone event featuring chef demonstrations, tastings of Lowcountry dishes, and artisan markets. Scholars often assist chefs and engage with attendees, gaining invaluable experience.

• One Night in NOLA (March 7): This event blends Creole and Gullah cuisines, offering scholars a chance to explore cultural fusion through food preparation and presentation.

• Community Impact Luncheon (January 28): Though held earlier in the year, this luncheon celebrates individuals like Gena Berry, Culinary Director for Charleston Wine + Food, who mentors scholars and fosters their growth through programs like Taste of Derby.

Broader Impact on the Culinary Community

The festival’s broader mission includes addressing workforce challenges such as staffing shortages by creating sustainable career pathways. Programs like those offered by One80 Place provide paid externships for individuals transitioning out of homelessness, further enriching Charleston’s culinary workforce. 

Proceeds from events also fund initiatives like the Culinary + Hospitality Investment Fund, which supports workforce training and mentorship programs.

Sustainability and Innovation

In addition to fostering talent, the festival promotes sustainable food practices. 

Culinary scholars are exposed to regenerative farming techniques, sustainable oyster farming, and other eco-friendly innovations featured during festival programming. These experiences not only enhance their technical skills but also instill a sense of environmental responsibility.

Conclusion

The 2025 Charleston Wine + Food Festival exemplifies how a world-class event can serve as a catalyst for education, innovation, and community enrichment. By integrating culinary scholars into its programming, the festival not only celebrates Charleston’s vibrant food culture but also invests in its future leaders. For attendees, it’s an opportunity to witness firsthand how food connects people while shaping careers and communities.

Photo Credit: Charleston Wine + Food