Professional chefs are being urged to show off their skills by competing in the fifth annual Rising Chef of the Year competition and fundraiser.

Twelve rising chefs, aged 18 and older, will be selected to compete in the event, which will be held at International Imports from October 13 to October 21.

“This annual sell-out event has been created to promote the passion, creativity and dedication of Bermuda’s culinary professionals, and to raise funds for the Bermuda Hospitality Institute’s educational programmes that highlight the hospitality industry,” said BHI’s executive director, Malika Cartwright.

“This is a great platform for chefs who are on their way up to display their skills to a welcoming audience while honing their presentation skills.

“We’re excited that our generous sponsors, Gosling Brothers, Butterfield & Vallis, Lindo’s Family Foods, and host International Imports, are on board once again.

The competition consists of four semi-final rounds with three competitors each night, leading to one final round of four competitors.

Dishes will be judged based on taste, presentation, originality in the use of ingredients and work ethic by a panel of “celebrity” judges.

The top chef will win the title of “Bermuda’s Rising Chef of the Year”. Competitors must be professional chefs, defined as someone who is paid or has been paid to cook or bake, or who is enrolled as a culinary student or has obtained a culinary degree.

Those who have held a supervisory position in a kitchen are not eligible.

• The entry deadline is August 24, with details available at www.BHI.bm, or by calling 295-5049. Tickets go on sale in October.