Aramark Ireland has announced it will host the EMPOWER Culinary Challenge 2026 an initiative supporting emerging talent in the foodservice and hospitality sectors.
The competition fosters innovation skill development and diversity in Irish culinary arts contributing to the industry’s growth and appeal as a career destination while tying into broader tourism through quality dining experiences.
The challenge brings together 14 top female chefs from across the organisation to demonstrate their creativity and technical skill under pressure.
The event focuses on promoting gender equality in the professional kitchen, fostering female leadership, and embedding sustainable practices into culinary operations. Participants are assessed on five key pillars: creativity, technical skill, teamwork, presentation, and sustainability. Judging Panel:
- Derek Reilly: Director of Culinary at Aramark Ireland.
- Sinead Corbally: Sustainability Manager at Aramark.
- Marie Smyth: Head of Business Sales Development.
- Sarah McDonnell: Key Account Manager.
The EMPOWER challenge is part of a series of major culinary events hosted by Aramark Ireland in 2026:
- Aramark Ireland Chef of the Year 2026: Held in January 2026 at TU Dublin’s Grangegorman Campus, this competition was won by Ana Maria Nechita, Head Chef at Brabazon House Nursing Home. She is only the third woman to win the title.
- Aramark International Chefs’ Cup 2026: For the first time, Dublin will host this prestigious global competition in June 2026. Winners from national competitions, including Ana Maria Nechita, will represent their respective countries on this international stage.
