With the Industry still recovering from the staffing impacts post COVID, finding the next generation of Chefs and Front of House to take the Industry forward is largely charged to our educators, and CEO Brad Bennett prides himself on honouring that responsibility with every student who steps through his doors at his training Institute. He is a Chef, Leader, Mentor and Motivator but most importantly a role model for both his Industry and students. We wanted to understand why his Institute is so successful with one of the highest placement rates, and what makes him tick.
For those who may be not be familiar with Le’ Culinaire Hospitality Institute, can you talk about the point of difference you provide your students?
At Le’ Culinaire, “We don’t train our students to be average, we inspire them to be awesome, we pride ourselves on providing a unique point of difference for our students’ learning experience.
We go beyond just teaching recipes and techniques. We focus on cultivating a deep understanding of ingredients, flavours, and culinary traditions from around the world.
Our students also have the opportunity to learn from renowned chefs, participate in hands-on Master Classes, and gain real-life experience through industry placements.
Our ultimate goal is to produce graduates who are not only skilled chefs but also creative culinary leaders, equipped with a deep understanding of global cuisines, sustainability practices, communication skills and the ability to adapt to emerging culinary trends. We strive to nurture a community of passionate individuals who will shape the future of the culinary industry and make a positive impact on the world through their culinary expertise.
Along with this, as the CEO and founder I have come from INDUSTRY as a Restaurateur and The School is run by an Industry professional not a corporate board.
You have recently received Global recognition, can you tell us about some of your most proud recent achievements, and of your future aspirations for Le’ Culinaire?
We are incredibly proud of the recent global recognition that Le’ Culinaire has received. One of our most notable achievements was being ranked as Oceana’s best culinary Institute 2023 by a renowned international culinary organisation.
This recognition not only validates our commitment to excellence but also highlights the exceptional quality of education we provide to our students. I was to receive an amazing accolade from tourism Training Australia Chair John Hart for outstanding achievement in VET, as well as Chairmans Training Excellence award. This adds to World Master Chef society’s Medal of Merit, Gold Medal as Australian representative Ambassador of Taste for the Global Gastronomy. I have been invited to Greece in June to accept this award as well as present Le’ Culinaire to a global audience of International chefs. Le’ Culinaire was highlighted in The Business Fame Magazine as “leading Australia’s Educational System to New Heights.”
What intrinsically motivates Brad Bennett, both personally and professionally?
First and foremost, my passion for the hospitality industry is a significant motivator. I believe in the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on individuals pursuing careers in hospitality. Witnessing students grow, develop their skills, and achieve their career goals is incredibly rewarding.
This industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, and as a CEO, Chef, I have the ability to influence the curriculum, programs, and initiatives of the school. By staying updated with industry trends and anticipating future needs, I can ensure that our school remains at the forefront of hospitality education and equips students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their careers.
Additionally, the success and accomplishments of our students and alumni are sources of motivation. Seeing our graduates thriving in the industry, making a positive impact, and reaching significant milestones fuels my drive to continue improving the school and providing the best possible education and support to our students.
Overall, my school stems from a deep passion for the industry, the desire to shape its future, the success of students and alumni, and the satisfaction of building a strong educational community.
It is a particularly difficult time for the Hospitality Industry, what gives you hope for the future, and what role can Government play in that?
Government collaboration with industry stakeholders is vital for addressing challenges and implementing effective strategies. This can include partnerships with educational institutions, including Private Institution not just Government Institutions to develop pipelines, engaging with industry associations to drive standards and best practices, and working with local communities to ensure sustainable development.
Overall, the future of the hospitality industry is promising due to increasing global demand, technological advancements, and a growing focus on sustainability. The government’s role in providing support, fostering innovation, and collaborating with industry stakeholders is essential in driving the industry forward and realizing its full potential.
You have incredible staff at Le’ Culinaire that support both you as CEO and your students, can you tell us what they mean to you?
The staff at Le’ Culinaire Hospitality Institute hold immense value and significance to me as the CEO, as well as to our students. They are the backbone of our institute and play a crucial role in creating a enriching learning environment.
First and foremost, the staff at Le’ Culinaire are passionate individuals who are dedicated to the field of hospitality and Vocational Education. Their expertise, knowledge, and experience in the industry bring immense value to our students’ learning journey. They are committed to imparting their skills and wisdom, helping students develop the necessary competencies to succeed in their careers.
Personally, the staff at Le’ Culinaire hold a special place in my heart. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence are remarkable. In summary, the staff at Le’ Culinaire Hospitality Institute are invaluable to me as the CEO and to our students. They bring passion, expertise, mentorship, and a sense of community to our institute. Their contributions are integral to the success and growth of our students, and I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support and commitment.
Some people are naturally born to teach and mentor others, when did you realise you were given that gift?
Throughout my personal and professional journey, I found immense joy and fulfillment in sharing knowledge, offering guidance, and witnessing the growth and development of those around me. Whether it was helping a colleague overcome a challenge or mentoring a student to achieve their goals, I felt a deep sense of purpose in these interactions.
Over time, I received feedback from colleagues, friends, and students who expressed gratitude for the support and guidance I provided. Their positive experiences and growth became a source of inspiration for me. It was through these interactions and the impact I could make on others’ lives that I began to realize my innate ability to teach and mentor.
Ultimately, it was a combination of self-reflection, feedback from others, and my own experiences that led me to recognize my gift for teaching and mentoring. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to guide and support others on their journey, and I am grateful to have discovered this passion within myself.
Your ability to motivate others is legendary, for someone who may need some inspiration in their chosen field of endeavour, what would you say to them?
Stay curious, stay open-minded, and embrace the journey with passion and perseverance. You have the ability to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field. Believe in yourself and let your inspiration drive you towards your goals.
Celebrate Progress and Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognise the progress you have made and the milestones you have reached. Celebrating your successes will boost your confidence and motivation to continue moving forward.
Love what you do and be Awesome doing it!