Graduation Ceremony 2025: A Night of Recognition and Achievement

Last week, HRC Culinary Academy held its annual graduation ceremony, bringing together students, their families and friends, corporate partners, and special guests for an evening dedicated to achievement, community, and new beginnings.

The event opened with formal addresses from Yoana Mileva, Director of HRC Culinary Academy, Arie Van der Spek, President of the Board, and Viktor Svetoslavov, Head Chef Instructor. Their speeches highlighted the graduates’ accomplishments, the Academy’s mission, and the shared commitment to excellence in culinary education.

A panel discussion followed, featuring four distinguished HRC alumni: Chef Pavel Pavlov, Chef Vladimir Todorov, Chef Velizar Malinov, and Chef Simeon Hrankov. They reflected on their experiences at the Academy, offering insights into the realities of professional kitchens, sharing memorable stories, and giving thoughtful advice to the new graduates.

One of the most heartfelt moments of the ceremony came when instructors Chef Viktorija Baltutyte-Bacheva and Chef Yovelina Minkova took the stage to congratulate the graduates and bid farewell as they prepare to embark on the wonderful journey of motherhood. The Academy extends its warmest wishes to both during this special time.

The ceremony continued with a lighthearted icebreaker: a knife-skills challenge in which graduates demonstrated their ability to peel an apple in one continuous strip. The three winners received Japanese knives generously provided by Chunche, one of the Academy’s valued partners.

After the formal program and awarding of diplomas, the celebration carried on with music, catering prepared by the Talents restaurant team, and lively conversations that brought together students, alumni, instructors, and guests.

HRC Culinary Academy extends its sincere congratulations to all graduates. Their dedication, resilience, and passion have shaped their journey so far, and the Academy looks forward to seeing all they will accomplish in their culinary careers.