SLAF showcases culinary excellence in Sigiriya

Colombo, Sept. 26 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) once again brought its culinary excellence to the forefront with the successful hosting of the second edition of the SLAF Culinary Art Competition recently at the historic city of Sigiriya.

The grand awarding ceremony, held on September 13, was graced by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, alongside the Chairperson of the SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Krishanthi Edirisinghe. This flagship event was conducted under the guidance of the Air Force Commander and under the close supervision of Director General Logistics, Air Vice Marshal Gladwin Athapaththu.

Aimed at nurturing culinary creativity and promoting excellence within the Air Force and beyond, the 2025 edition saw participation from 268 competitors, including representatives from the Tri Forces, regional hospitality professionals, and school students from the North Central and Central Provinces. Participants competed across Professional, Apprentice, and School categories, displaying remarkable talent in artistic food presentation, live cooking, and bartending.

In line with international standards, the competition was judged under the stringent criteria set by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS). A distinguished panel of judges, led by Chef Gerard Mendis, Chairman of the Chef Guild of Lanka, along with senior guild members, ensured professional and impartial evaluation throughout the event.

Medals and certificates were awarded to top performers in each category, with further training opportunities and the chance to represent SLAF at the Culinary Arts Food Expo 2026 also extended to selected winners. This international platform, organized by the Chef Guild of Sri Lanka, will provide national recognition and further propel the careers of the most promising culinary talents.

The event also marked a significant step in the SLAF’s broader vision to enhance professional training in hospitality. Plans are underway to further expand the Hospitality Management School at SLAF Station Sigiriya, with the aim of providing aspiring youth with more structured and advanced training in the hospitality sector.

Adding further prestige to the event, several senior members of the Air Force Board of Management were present, including Air Vice Marshal Gihan Senevirathne (Director General Aeronautical), Air Vice Marshal Thushara Weerarathne (Director General Training), and Air Vice Marshal Asitha Hettiarachchi (Director General Electronic and Computer Engineering), along with other high-ranking officers and dignitaries.