The Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management (Pvt) Ltd. (CAHM), Sri Lanka’s leading private hospitality and culinary training institute located at the SLIIT main Campus Malabe, has officially launched the CAHM 7-Star Junior Chef Competition – Season 01. The competition, aimed at nurturing the next generation of culinary professionals, is proudly supported by Serendib Flour Mills (Pvt) Ltd, with its flagship 7 Star Wheat Flour brand as the Title Sponsor.
The competition is designed for school students aged 13 to 16 years, and seeks to foster a passion for culinary arts, build skills, and highlight alternative career pathways in hospitality beyond traditional higher education routes. With Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector growing rapidly, this initiative comes at a time when the industry is facing an increasing demand for skilled professionals. By introducing young students to the culinary world early, CAHM aims to inspire creativity and professionalism, providing them with an opportunity to compete in a structured, industry-inspired competition.
Mr. Errol Weerasinghe, Chairman of Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management (Pvt) Ltd, said, “The CAHM 7-Star Junior Chef Competition has been created to identify and encourage young talent with a genuine flair for the culinary and hospitality space. By introducing students to a structured, industry-aligned platform at an early age, we are helping them see the hospitality sector as a meaningful and rewarding career pathway. This initiative supports the development of confidence, creativity, and practical capability, while contributing to a strong pipeline of future professionals for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. Accordingly, we have decided to award a full scholarship worth Rs. 2 million to the winner.”
Mr. Vijay Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of Serendib Flour Mills (Pvt) Ltd, said, “As the Title Sponsor, 7 Star Wheat Flour is committed to inspiring young talent and nurturing the chefs of tomorrow. We believe quality ingredients can elevate every dish, and through this partnership, we’re empowering the next generation of culinary professionals. The purpose of Serendib Flour Mills is to Nourish the Nation and with this initiative we will be nourishing the future generation of culinary professionals.”
Serendib Flour Mills (Pvt) Ltd is one of Sri Lanka’s leading flour manufacturers, supplying high-quality wheat flour to bakeries, industries, HORECA establishments, and households. With 18 years of operations, the company plays a key role in national food security through its purpose of Nourishing the Nation. Marketed under the 7 Star brand, Serendib products are recognised for quality, consistency, and food safety. A wholly owned subsidiary of the Dubai-headquartered Al Ghurair Group, one of the leading diversified family businesses in the UAE, Serendib has elevated innovation, excellence, and sustainable practices throughout its operations, reinforcing long-term commitment to Sri Lanka’s food industry.
Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management (Pvt) Ltd. (CAHM) is Sri Lanka’s only hospitality and culinary art education institute partnered with the globally recognised William Angliss Institute (RTO3045), Australia. CAHM delivers internationally competitive training in culinary arts, offering students an exceptional learning experience that prepares them for success on the global stage.
Looking ahead, CAHM plans to make the CAHM 7-Star Junior Chef Competition an annual event, while expanding its partnerships to further develop young talent and contribute to the growing demand for skilled professionals in Sri Lanka’s hospitality and culinary industries.
Source : Ada Derana Biz