Established to promote and support those who work to affect positive change in the world through gastronomy, the Basque Culinary World Prize (BCWP) recognizes chefs who make an impact beyond the kitchen in fields such as culinary innovation, health, nutrition, education, the environment, the food industry, social or economic development.
It carries with it a €100,000 prize for the winner to spend on a project of their choice that will demonstrate the transformative power of gastronomy.
Previous recipients include Leonor Espinosa who has worked with indigenous communities in Colombia; José Andrés and his World Central Kitchen that has provided emergency help to the world for many years now; and Xanty Elias for his tireless efforts to improve school food in Spain. Last year saw Ebru Baybara Demir receive the prize for her work promoting the gastronomy of her region while empowering local communities.
“The Basque Culinary World Prize celebrates the transformative power of gastronomy, which can have a profound impact at both local and global scales,” says Basque Culinary Center director general Joxe Mari Aizega. “It is our belief that gastronomy is a central part of tackling the complex global challenges that face society; so, Basque Culinary World Prize seeks to recognize those chefs who, through their talent, leadership, and hard work, bring light to those around them. The 9th edition of this award will continue to highlight the stories of inspiring chefs and recognize their achievements”.
The winner will be selected by the jury made up of an illustrious panel of chefs including Joan Roca of El Celler de Can Roca in Spain; Dominique Crenn from Atelier Crenn in San Francisco; Joshua Niland of St Peter’s in Australia and Pia León, the chef behind Kjolle in Peru.
Nominations for the 2024 edition of the prize will close on 15 April 2024. The winner of the €100,000 prize will be announced at a public event in Lima (Peru) on 19 June 2024.
For more information and to submit your nominations for the 2024 Basque Culinary World Prize, visit: www.basqueculinaryworldprize.com
