Young Limerick chef to represent Ireland on the world stage in Shanghai
The Rathkeale chef will be one of 16 Irish competitors travelling to Shanghai for the WorldSkills
A YOUNG promising chef from Rathkeale will be putting his skills to the test in Shanghai at the WorldSkills competition.
Charlie Ward will compete in the cookery category and is one of 16 Irish competitors who will be representing his country at the international competition, which takes place from September 22 - 27 in Shanghai.
Before jetting off to China, the 22-year-old will first showcase his skills in the RDS.
WorldSkills Shanghai will bring together more than 1,400 competitors from more than 70 countries across 64 different skill areas.
Speaking on the benefits of the WorldSkills competition, Charlie said: “For one it is a huge personal honour for myself and my family. Additionally it will help create a name for myself in the industry which will allow me to progress rapidly in my career.”
Charlie's love of cooking began at home before he gained professional experience from the age of 15, working in restaurants including Michelin-starred establishments and representing Ireland at competitions in Atlanta and Shanghai.
For Charlie and those competing in Shanghai, the journey began long before stepping onto the international stage, with competitors undertaking intensive preparation and honing their skills against some of the best young talent in Ireland.
Ray English, Chair of WorldSkills Ireland, said: “Skills and apprenticeships are fundamental to Ireland’s future. They power our economy, strengthen industry and open doors to rewarding careers.
“WorldSkills Ireland shows young people that practical and technical skills are not a second choice, they are a first choice route to success.”