In a heartwarming celebration of International Chef’s Day, 12 top chefs from Sodexo India came together to cook and serve nutritious meals to 150-odd children from the Rishi Valmiki Eco School in Mumbai. Led by Chef Jerson Fernandes, Director of Culinary Operations – Corporate Office food-India, the event embraced this year’s theme, “Making a Difference,” focusing on sustainability, empowerment, and diversity in the kitchen.

In line with Sodexo’s global commitment to sustainability, the chefs emphasized the use of locally sourced ingredients, minimizing food wastage, and adopting eco-friendly cooking and serving methods. The event showcased a menu crafted around seasonal produce, supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.

“Sustainable cooking is more than just a trend; it’s a responsibility,” said Chef Sudhir Nair-Culinary lead at Sodexo India. “We want to inspire these kids to understand that every choice we make, from the ingredients we use to how we prepare food, can positively impact our planet.” Chef Nair added further.

Beyond sustainability, the initiative also underscored Sodexo’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive work culture. The team of chefs came from different regions of India, each contributing their unique culinary expertise to create a blend of flavors that delighted the children. This diversity, Chef Chetan Washikar- Corporate Chef- ILA added, strengthens collaboration and innovation in the kitchen, creating more impactful and meaningful dining experiences.

“By sharing their skills and experiences, the chefs showed the next generation how food can be a tool for positive change. Chefs truly are the superheroes of our company and giving them a free hand to express themselves certainly goes a long way” said, Mr. Rakesh Agarwal, Country Segment Director for corporate office food.

This act of service was not just about nourishing the body but also the mind and soul, making a lasting difference in the lives of these children.

List of participating chefs who made a difference:

• Chef Jerson Fernandes

• Chef Mohit Chotrani.

• Chef Sudhir Nair.

• Chef Sugata Sen Gupta

• Chef Irfan Lateefi

• Chef Chetan Washikar.

• Chef Gaurav Pawar.

• Chef Pravin Nanaware.

• Chef Ashwin Iyangar

• Chef Nagesh Morajkar

• Chef Sarvanan Rathinavel

• Chef Nishant Kumar

• Chef Preeteesh Wagh

• Mr. Zoheb Sheikh