WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — A new summer program is giving Triad teens a taste of the culinary arts.

What you need to know

The Youth Culinary Arts Program is a partnership between Triad Food and Beverage Coalition, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina and Forsyth Habitat for Humanity

The students are getting hands-on experience with Providence’s culinary education director, Daryl Pobanz

This is the first year of the program. The partners hope to continue the program for 16 and 17-year-olds

A handful of students, ages 16 and 17, were selected to participate in the new Youth Culinary Arts Program, which has a partnership with Triad Food and Beverage Coalition, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina and Forsyth Habitat for Humanity.

The young chefs are undergoing four weeks of intensive culinary arts training at Second Harvest’s Providence led by Daryl Pobanz. 

Kaleik Robinson is part of the program. The 17-year-old grew up watching his aunt cook, which led him to apply for the program. Robinson aspires to be a master chef and owner of his own restaurant.

“I want to make people love my food, make them happy, I put heart and soul into my cooking,” said Robinson.

The students are learning food safety, kitchen etiquette, as well as the history behind culinary arts. They are also getting hands-on experience with grilling, frying, baking and other cooking methods during the six-week program. 

“If you’re interested in learning how to cook, or trying to cook for fun, this is perfect for you,” said Robinson.

With most intensive culinary classes having a focus on adults, these teenagers get a chance to learn the basics of culinary arts while still in high school. This gives them a path to get their careers started in the industry. 

For more information on the program, click here.