The 10th Canary Islands Championship for Young Chefs, held from May 20 to 22, 2025, at the Tenerife Fairgrounds during the Canary Islands Gastronomic Fair – GastroCanarias, witnessed a notable participation of Gran Canarian talents.
Saylem Cuevas and Óscar Vega: Talent and dedication from Gran Canaria
Saylem Cuevas García, trained at Hecansa Hotel Escuela Santa Brígida, took first place in the chef category. Her assistant, Óscar Vega, was also recognized as the competition’s Best Assistant. Together they presented a “Grandmother’s Stew,” a reinterpretation of the traditional octopus ropavieja, which won over the judges with its flavor and presentation.
Cuevas, originally from Cuba and a resident of La Aldea de San Nicolás for seven years, expressed her pride in representing Gran Canaria and emphasized her love for the local cuisine. This victory will allow her to participate in the upcoming World Young Chefs Championship.
For his part, Óscar Vega shared his satisfaction with the recognition, highlighting the importance of reinventing oneself and working with passion in the culinary field.
Other Gran Canarian talents on the podium
Alejandro Francisco López, a student at the San Cristóbal Community College (CIFP San Cristóbal), won third place in the cooking category, demonstrating the high level of training and creativity of young chefs in Gran Canaria.
In addition, in the Neapolitan Pizza Competition, Antonio Cazorla of Lacan pizzeria was crowned champion, while Iván Pulido took third place in the cooking category.
These achievements reflect the commitment and excellence of Gran Canaria’s culinary professionals, consolidating its position in the Canarian culinary scene.