Autentico Student Seminar connected youth with gastronomy and hospitality professionals
The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) organized the second edition of the Autentico Student Seminar, an educational seminar that brought together over 125 students from the hospitality and gastronomy programs at Colegio EPI and EPB with experienced professionals in gastronomy, hospitality, and tourism. More than just a celebration of our culinary heritage, Autentico serves as an investment in Aruba’s future by providing young local talent with direct access to knowledge, experience, and inspiration from industry leaders. The goal of the seminar was to highlight various career opportunities within these industries and inspire young people to explore their talent and future.
Education and local talent development are key components of the Autentico Aruba Culinary Festival. Through this seminar, students were able to discover different career paths and understand that success in hospitality and the culinary world stems from dedication, creativity, discipline, and continuous learning. During the program, four speakers shared their career journeys, knowledge, and experiences with the students.
The first speaker was Frank Kelly, better known as ‘Taki’. As an artist and expert on Aruba’s native plants and ingredients, his presentation focused on the island’s natural richness and the importance of appreciating and preserving knowledge passed down through generations. Drawing from the teachings of his grandmother, Taki shared how local plants, herbs, and ingredients can take center stage in modern gastronomy. Through practical examples, including the preparation of his cadushi (cactus) croquettes, he demonstrated how innovation can go hand in hand with respect for our cultural and natural heritage.
The second speaker was Chef Xalsky Schwengle, a private Aruban chef who presented ‘The Recipe for Lasting Success’. As a former educator who previously worked directly with youth, he effortlessly connected with the students. By sharing insights gained from the classroom and his extensive experience in the culinary industry, his message emphasized that success does not happen overnight, but through consistency, dedication, and a willingness to keep growing both personally and professionally.
Chef Sebastian Cechet, Culinary Director at Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, provided an international perspective based on his extensive background in Canada, France, Cuba, and Turks and Caicos, which includes working in two Michelin-starred restaurants. During his interactive presentation, ‘The Science Behind Flavors and Textures’, he guided students through a hands-on experience exploring how flavor, aroma, and texture work together to create a memorable dish. Through demonstrations and concrete examples, students gained a deeper understanding of how different elements can accentuate and enrich a culinary experience, turning theory into an engaging practical lesson.
The final speaker was Jeison Ramirez, Operations Manager at Remedi Corporation, who shared his experience spanning over ten years in the beverage and hospitality industry. As an EPB alumnus, his personal journey resonated immediately with many of the students present. During an interactive session, he discussed the art and science of clarification and how this technique can refine flavor, improve texture, and create unique guest experiences. Furthermore, Jeison highlighted that the culinary world extends far beyond food, showing that beverages, service, and innovation offer numerous professional opportunities.
Through this initiative, the Aruba Tourism Authority continues to invest in the next generation of Aruban professionals. By giving young people direct access to the experience, knowledge, and inspiration of successful industry leaders, A.T.A. helps them understand the vast opportunities offered by tourism, hospitality, and gastronomy. A.T.A. extends its gratitude to the participating schools, teachers, and students whose active involvement contributed to the success of the seminar, reinforcing the importance of ongoing investment in local talent.
