She came to Niagara College as a proud Mexican with a passion for cooking. Now, in just her second semester, Sophia Castellanos Olvera has already become a rising star.
Olvera was recently presented with a Niagara Culinary Rising Star Award, which included a $1,000 bursary to continue her education in Niagara. The award was one of two 2019 RBC Business Awards for students – one culinary and one wine – presented at the Niagara Wine Festival on September 20 at Montebello Park. The awards recognize the top individuals currently pursuing an education in the wine and culinary arts. Each award acknowledges rising stars, in their respective fields, who embody the future of Niagara’s internationally recognized culinary and wine industries – among the top employers in Niagara.
“Recipients of the Rising Star awards reflect the dedication and passion of these individuals,” said Dorian Anderson, executive director of the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival. “These Rising Stars have demonstrated leadership, philanthropy, and an above-average proficiency in winemaking/ viticulture practices and culinary programs.”
Olvera was nominated by NC chef professor Michael Olson who noted that she demonstrates great promise in the culinary arts.
“She shows up early, ready to work, contributes to the classroom, and shows a keen dedication towards excellence in her basic skills, preparedness, and desire to really put great food on the plate – and she even brings in her own plates from home to add to her presentation classes,” said Olson in the student’s nomination form. “I see her developing into a leader before long and can’t wait to see what she adds to the Canadian table.”
Olvera was happy to hear the news of her award.
“Honestly, when Chef Olson told me to check my email at first, at first, I did not understand,” she said. “I was happy because in every class or lab I have, I put in all my effort to learn and improve because cooking is something I love.”
Olvera came to Niagara College from Mexico City. “When I saw the program and the campus, I knew it was for me,” she said. “I am thankful to be a student at Niagara College and blessed to have the teachers I’ve got.”
Canadian Food and Wine Institute dean Craig Youdale applauded Olvera’s accomplishment and was thankful to RBC for its support.
“We value each and every student that comes to learn with us here at Niagara College. The pressure that each student feels is real and one of those pressures is always financial,” said Youdale. “We always appreciate when our industry and community partners can offer a financial incentive for our students to focus on their studies a not on their bank accounts. When a valued Canadian company like Royal Bank of Canada takes notice of our students it is a great nod to the quality of work our faculty and staff do every day for all our students.”
Sophia Castellanos Olvera stands with president Dan Patterson after being presented with her RBC Rising Star Award on September 20.
