Author: sHq_LoGiNz

Applications open 16th February, inviting the world’s most talented chefs under 30 to apply

MILAN, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — S.Pellegrino announces the launch of the seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition the global initiative designed to identify and support the most promising young chefs under 30. Open to applicants worldwide for four months, the Competition once again invites emerging culinary talent from across the globe to step onto an international stage and help shape the future of gastronomy.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/s_pellegrino/9383951-en-search-next-generation-culinary-talent-begins-seventh-edition

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is more than a culinary contest. It is a platform dedicated to discovering talent, fostering creativity, and supporting young chefs as they develop their own culinary voice. Through mentoring and access to influential figures in gastronomy, the Academy offers a transformative opportunity to accelerate professional journeys and gain international visibility.

The Competition brings together chefs from all over the world, who are divided into 15 regions and selected by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. Shortlisted chefs then compete in 15 Regional Finals, with regional winners advancing to the Grand Finale. Throughout the Competition, chefs are assessed on three key elements: technical skill, creativity, and personal belief.

As an additional benefit of being part of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, this edition also introduces a new mentorship initiative, reinforcing the Academy’s long-term commitment to supporting chefs beyond the competition itself. As part of this initiative, Ardy Ferguson, Global Winner of the 2024–25 edition, will take part in a dedicated mentorship experience, spending three weeks working alongside two internationally renowned chefs who served on the jury in the previous edition of the Competition: Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan. This mentorship is designed to offer meaningful guidance and professional exchange, while serving as an added source of inspiration for young chefs considering applying.

Reflecting on his experience, Ardy Ferguson, Winner of the 2024–25 edition, said:”The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience and has provided me with opportunities in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Being able to continue learning with chefs I admire so much is incredible, and it allows me to keep pushing my craft and building on everything the Academy offers as I continue to grow as a Chef.”

Julien Royer, founder and chef of Odette, Singapore, added: “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy offers young chefs an extraordinary opportunity to test themselves on a global stage. The journey to the Grand Finale is intense and demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, pushing chefs to refine their skills, clarify their vision, and grow both professionally and personally. The Academy creates an environment where talent is challenged, supported, and given the space to truly evolve.”

Jeremy Chan, founder and chef of Ikoyi, London, commented: “What makes the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy special is its focus on individuality and belief. Cooking at the highest level requires conviction as much as skill, and this competition gives young chefs the space and confidence to develop their own voice. Being able to support that process, and to engage with chefs at such a formative moment in their careers, is incredibly rewarding.”

Applications for the seventh edition of the Competition are open to chefs under 30 years of age from 16^th February until 9^th June 2026, via the official application platform. Candidates are invited to submit a signature dish that reflects their personal belief, technical skill, and creativity.

As in previous editions, the initial selection phase will shortlist candidates to progress to the 15 Regional Finals, taking place across multiple regions worldwide. Regional winners will then advance to the Grand Finale, where they will present their dishes to an esteemed Grand Jury of internationally recognised chefs. Alongside competing for the main title, participants will also be eligible for three collateral awards celebrating social responsibility, connection to culinary heritage, and the expression of personal belief through food.

To discover more about the competition, please visit sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com.

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Sanpellegrino, with its iconic products and a history of over 120 years is the leading company in Italy in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, offering a wide range of mineral waters, aperitifs, and soft drinks.

Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2902916/SPellegrino_Young_Check_Academy.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1341607/SPYCA_Logo.jpg

 

 

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-search-for-the-next-generation-of-culinary-talent-begins-as-the-spellegrino-young-chef-academy-competition-launches-its-seventh-edition-302687741.html

SOURCE S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy

Applications open 16th February, inviting the world’s most talented chefs under 30 to apply

MILAN, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — S.Pellegrino announces the launch of the seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition the global initiative designed to identify and support the most promising young chefs under 30. Open to applicants worldwide for four months, the Competition once again invites emerging culinary talent from across the globe to step onto an international stage and help shape the future of gastronomy.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/s_pellegrino/9383951-en-search-next-generation-culinary-talent-begins-seventh-edition

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is more than a culinary contest. It is a platform dedicated to discovering talent, fostering creativity, and supporting young chefs as they develop their own culinary voice. Through mentoring and access to influential figures in gastronomy, the Academy offers a transformative opportunity to accelerate professional journeys and gain international visibility.

The Competition brings together chefs from all over the world, who are divided into 15 regions and selected by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. Shortlisted chefs then compete in 15 Regional Finals, with regional winners advancing to the Grand Finale. Throughout the Competition, chefs are assessed on three key elements: technical skill, creativity, and personal belief.

As an additional benefit of being part of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, this edition also introduces a new mentorship initiative, reinforcing the Academy’s long-term commitment to supporting chefs beyond the competition itself. As part of this initiative, Ardy Ferguson, Global Winner of the 2024–25 edition, will take part in a dedicated mentorship experience, spending three weeks working alongside two internationally renowned chefs who served on the jury in the previous edition of the Competition: Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan. This mentorship is designed to offer meaningful guidance and professional exchange, while serving as an added source of inspiration for young chefs considering applying.

Reflecting on his experience, Ardy Ferguson, Winner of the 2024–25 edition, said:”The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience and has provided me with opportunities in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Being able to continue learning with chefs I admire so much is incredible, and it allows me to keep pushing my craft and building on everything the Academy offers as I continue to grow as a Chef.”

Julien Royer, founder and chef of Odette, Singapore, added: “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy offers young chefs an extraordinary opportunity to test themselves on a global stage. The journey to the Grand Finale is intense and demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, pushing chefs to refine their skills, clarify their vision, and grow both professionally and personally. The Academy creates an environment where talent is challenged, supported, and given the space to truly evolve.”

Jeremy Chan, founder and chef of Ikoyi, London, commented: “What makes the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy special is its focus on individuality and belief. Cooking at the highest level requires conviction as much as skill, and this competition gives young chefs the space and confidence to develop their own voice. Being able to support that process, and to engage with chefs at such a formative moment in their careers, is incredibly rewarding.”

Applications for the seventh edition of the Competition are open to chefs under 30 years of age from 16^th February until 9^th June 2026, via the official application platform. Candidates are invited to submit a signature dish that reflects their personal belief, technical skill, and creativity.

As in previous editions, the initial selection phase will shortlist candidates to progress to the 15 Regional Finals, taking place across multiple regions worldwide. Regional winners will then advance to the Grand Finale, where they will present their dishes to an esteemed Grand Jury of internationally recognised chefs. Alongside competing for the main title, participants will also be eligible for three collateral awards celebrating social responsibility, connection to culinary heritage, and the expression of personal belief through food.

To discover more about the competition, please visit sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com.

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Sanpellegrino, with its iconic products and a history of over 120 years is the leading company in Italy in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, offering a wide range of mineral waters, aperitifs, and soft drinks.

Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2902916/SPellegrino_Young_Check_Academy.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1341607/SPYCA_Logo.jpg

 

 

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-search-for-the-next-generation-of-culinary-talent-begins-as-the-spellegrino-young-chef-academy-competition-launches-its-seventh-edition-302687741.html

SOURCE S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy

Applications open 16th February, inviting the world’s most talented chefs under 30 to apply

MILAN, Feb. 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — S.Pellegrino announces the launch of the seventh edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition the global initiative designed to identify and support the most promising young chefs under 30. Open to applicants worldwide for four months, the Competition once again invites emerging culinary talent from across the globe to step onto an international stage and help shape the future of gastronomy.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/s_pellegrino/9383951-en-search-next-generation-culinary-talent-begins-seventh-edition

The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is more than a culinary contest. It is a platform dedicated to discovering talent, fostering creativity, and supporting young chefs as they develop their own culinary voice. Through mentoring and access to influential figures in gastronomy, the Academy offers a transformative opportunity to accelerate professional journeys and gain international visibility.

The Competition brings together chefs from all over the world, who are divided into 15 regions and selected by ALMA, the International School of Italian Culinary Arts. Shortlisted chefs then compete in 15 Regional Finals, with regional winners advancing to the Grand Finale. Throughout the Competition, chefs are assessed on three key elements: technical skill, creativity, and personal belief.

As an additional benefit of being part of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy, this edition also introduces a new mentorship initiative, reinforcing the Academy’s long-term commitment to supporting chefs beyond the competition itself. As part of this initiative, Ardy Ferguson, Global Winner of the 2024–25 edition, will take part in a dedicated mentorship experience, spending three weeks working alongside two internationally renowned chefs who served on the jury in the previous edition of the Competition: Julien Royer and Jeremy Chan. This mentorship is designed to offer meaningful guidance and professional exchange, while serving as an added source of inspiration for young chefs considering applying.

Reflecting on his experience, Ardy Ferguson, Winner of the 2024–25 edition, said:”The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy has been an unforgettable experience and has provided me with opportunities in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Being able to continue learning with chefs I admire so much is incredible, and it allows me to keep pushing my craft and building on everything the Academy offers as I continue to grow as a Chef.”

Julien Royer, founder and chef of Odette, Singapore, added: “The S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy offers young chefs an extraordinary opportunity to test themselves on a global stage. The journey to the Grand Finale is intense and demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, pushing chefs to refine their skills, clarify their vision, and grow both professionally and personally. The Academy creates an environment where talent is challenged, supported, and given the space to truly evolve.”

Jeremy Chan, founder and chef of Ikoyi, London, commented: “What makes the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy special is its focus on individuality and belief. Cooking at the highest level requires conviction as much as skill, and this competition gives young chefs the space and confidence to develop their own voice. Being able to support that process, and to engage with chefs at such a formative moment in their careers, is incredibly rewarding.”

Applications for the seventh edition of the Competition are open to chefs under 30 years of age from 16^th February until 9^th June 2026, via the official application platform. Candidates are invited to submit a signature dish that reflects their personal belief, technical skill, and creativity.

As in previous editions, the initial selection phase will shortlist candidates to progress to the 15 Regional Finals, taking place across multiple regions worldwide. Regional winners will then advance to the Grand Finale, where they will present their dishes to an esteemed Grand Jury of internationally recognised chefs. Alongside competing for the main title, participants will also be eligible for three collateral awards celebrating social responsibility, connection to culinary heritage, and the expression of personal belief through food.

To discover more about the competition, please visit sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.com.

About S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna

S.Pellegrino, Acqua Panna and Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks are international trademarks of Sanpellegrino S.p.A., which is based in Milan, Italy. Distributed in over 150 countries through branches and distributors on all five continents, these products represent quality, excellence by virtue of their origins and perfectly interpret Italian style worldwide as a synthesis of pleasure, health and well-being. Sanpellegrino, with its iconic products and a history of over 120 years is the leading company in Italy in the non-alcoholic beverage sector, offering a wide range of mineral waters, aperitifs, and soft drinks.

Sanpellegrino has always been committed to enhancing this primary good for the planet and works responsibly and passionately to ensure that this resource has a secure future.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2902916/SPellegrino_Young_Check_Academy.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1341607/SPYCA_Logo.jpg

 

 

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-search-for-the-next-generation-of-culinary-talent-begins-as-the-spellegrino-young-chef-academy-competition-launches-its-seventh-edition-302687741.html

SOURCE S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy

Our Generation is expanding with a new series of limited-edition seasonal dolls at Target designed to delight collectors and families.

NEW YORK, Feb. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Building on the success of last year’s limited-edition releases for Day of the Dead, Halloween, and Christmas, Maison Battat is excited to announce the launch of a full year collection of seasonal, limited-edition dolls at Target.

Thoughtfully crafted, collectible, and truly worth seeking out, each doll delivers a unique, imaginative experience for fans of all ages. Our Generation’s Keepsake Collection dolls combine the thrill of collecting with approachable pricing of under $35. This price point allows collectors to expand their collections and offers the opportunity to parents, family and friends to purchase thoughtful holiday-themed gifts to cherish and enjoy.

“Playing and collecting should be a joyful experience for all ages,” said Dany Battat, CEO of Maison Battat Inc. “With our 2026 Keepsake Collection dolls, we’re bringing creativity, celebration, and accessibility together; offering fans the chance to collect these highly detailed limited-edition dolls themed to favorite celebrations.”

The Easter Dolls, available now through Easter, mark the start of the eagerly anticipated 2026 series celebrating seasonal joy. Blossom and Sunny shine in dresses decorated with glittery bunnies along the skirt and blooming headbands topped with fluffy cotton tails, offering a charming nod to the arrival of spring. As the season shifts from pastel celebrations to patriotic festivities, the collection continues with a bold red, white, and blue release.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, limited-edition dolls Starla and Skylie will be available from April to July in star-spangled dresses inspired by the American flag. Their designs feature iridescent print details, swirly red skirt trim, and embellished blue bodices—a fashionable tribute to the nation’s iconic colors. Each doll arrives with a certificate of authenticity and carefully designed details that make every figure a joy to discover.

Collectors can look forward to more seasonal releases throughout the year, introducing new characters and festive designs inspired by every key holiday. With each new launch offering unique styling and collectible touches, fans will have something special to discover again and again, making the joy of collecting an ongoing celebration all year long.

Our generation will unveil new limited-edition dolls at New York Toy Fair 2026 (Booth 2125). For press inquiries, please contact Sofia Vinitskaia, PR and Communications Specialist, at press@battatco.com.

Explore our press kit at https://battat.com/pages/press

ABOUT MAISON BATTAT INC^®

At Maison Battat, Inc., a family-owned company, we believe that everyone deserves to play. For over 45 years, we’ve offered families incredible value with toys designed to encourage children to grow, explore, and dream BIG through the power of play.

Our toy box has grown to include over 13 successful brands: from the inspiring dolls of Our Generation^® to tough DRIVEN^® trucks to the creative world of Battat^®. We’ve also forged successful partnerships with the world’s leading retailers and e-commerce companies, making it possible to find our toys in playrooms all around the globe – in 70 countries and counting!

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://tfny2026.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=10199

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/our-generation-expands-with-keepsake-collection-302687757.html

SOURCE Battat