A Passion to Inspire 15th Anniversary
One thing that unites all those working in the
hospitality industry is the extraordinary passion
for ingredients, cooking, service and quality, which
is something that “A Passion to Inspire” has been
nurturing in young people since 2009.
Initially developed to create stronger links between
education and industry, A Passion to Inspire is a
hopeful charity that works with colleges,
Restauranteurs, Hoteliers, farmers, and top chefs
to inspire, encourage, and support students in
their chosen careers.
From its initial format as a competition for 12 years
the non-profit-making initiative was founded by
Murray Chapman in 2009 and has expanded to
work with over 176 Wonderful colleges. It is open
to all students at any level, including front of house
and kitchen and Inspiring Lecturers
Wonderful, this our 10th event here at Infusions,
thanks so much to John and his great team of
people, that care and Inspire.
From visits to RSPCA Assured -approved farms, and Great farms like Dingley Dell Pork and Loch Duart Salmon to taking part in the Flying Visit programme and Very Special and Inspirational Upskill Days. This gives students the chance to be involved in major industry events, colleges get to meet top chefs, restaurateurs, and hoteliers, as well as producers, growers, and suppliers. Through their charity dinners, A Passion to Inspire has raised over a staggering £240,000 for charities such as NSPCC, Teenage Cancer Trust, Whirlow Hall Farm Trust, and Hospitality Action.
It’s not only the students who get to enjoy being part of this dynamic initiative, the incredible list of chefs who work with them also relish being involved with the innovative project. Adam Reid, Willie Pike, Steve Munkley, Brad Carter, Daniel Clifford, James Carn, Dave Wall, Ross Sneddon, Benoit Blin, Claire Clark, Dan Ashmore, Dean Banks , Rupert Rowley, Adam Smith, Alan Paton, Chris Lee, Adam Simmonds, Nick Claxton - Webb, Russell Bateman, Daniel Ayton, and Eric Snaith are just a handful of chefs who have supported - worked with " A Passion to Inspire ".
Mark Poynton, Chef Patron at MJP Restaurants:
“I have been involved with A Passion to Inspire from the start. The charity works with over 176 colleges and hundreds of students, inspiring them to create great food and, more importantly, develop themselves in our fantastic industry."
Cyrus Todiwala OBE DL DBA of Café Spice Namaste:
“Everyone knows that involving young aspiring student chefs in any kitchen will always lead to them achieving success and a definite strong platform for high achievement in the future. To work with young enthusiastic and talented students and chefs is always an honour, spreading the knowledge to them on new cultures and foods from different continents is a pleasure. At Passion much is done to Inspire young people to hit above and beyond their small goals and ambitions, which makes it a magnificent organisation that aims to help in achieving these goals!! For me it is a joy to work with them and help them help young people on their journey of success."
With the involvement of people from the entire industry – from farm to front of house – A Passion to Inspire helps and supports the future of tomorrow today.
Steve Munkley – Craft Guild Culinary Legend:
"The young chefs were taken on an amazing journey yesterday by such a talented bunch of their piers, over 4 hours their taste buds were excited and opportunities for their career progression discussed and why they were our the future of our industry"
Eric Snaith – Owner - Titchwell Manor:
“I was delighted to be part of such a great day, A Passion to Inspire always delivers such valuable and inspiring events, it was amazing to see so many students attend. I enjoyed sharing my knowledge and experience alongside Ben from Marrfish. Overall it was a great collection of demonstrations from top chefs and producers at a great venue, thank you to John and his team at Infusions for looking after us so well"
Mark Hayward – Dingley Dell Pigs:
“As ever a passion to inspire delivered an exciting and informative day enabling tomorrow’s chefs and hospitality leaders to learn a variety of skills and ideas from people with not just a wealth of knowledge but a desire to help young people, I am privileged to be a part of something so wonderful”
Julie Kelly and Harv Deol – Wonderful Tilda Rice:
“ Harv and I really enjoyed the day yesterday, it was great to be a part of such a great event and taste some wonderful food. A well thought out day that showcased many great products. Thank you Murray for letting us be a part of the day. “
Sarah Stamp – Infusions for Chefs:
“ It was such a lovely day with some great demos and most importantly the students were so engaged and had a call. Some great feedback on social media and from those I’ve spoken to. Well done, you should be very proud! XX “
