The Final of the National Tourism Skills Competition 2026

Olimport supported the "Best Young Chef" competition with a cash prize and recognition for the instructors

Olimport continues to pursue its mission of fostering young culinary talent in Bulgaria. Once again, the company is a leading force in supporting students from state vocational high schools specializing in tourism and culinary arts, actively investing in their development and future.

In late April 2026, the finals of the 2026 National Competition in Tourism Professions—a key event for vocational education in Bulgaria—took place at the Golden Sands resort. The event involved 128 students from 40 vocational high schools who demonstrated their skills in culinary arts, restaurant service, hotel operations, and tourism animation.

                                                   

Nikol Chausheva – Best Young Chef of 2026

The top award in the "Best Young Chef" category for 2026 was presented to Nikol Chausheva from the Vocational High School of Tourism in Varna. She impressed the jury with her precision, flavor, and modern interpretation of ingredients, presenting a starter of trout fillet with asparagus and a main course of beef tenderloin with king oyster mushrooms.

The evaluation was entrusted to an international jury of established professionals—chaired by Petar Yorgov and comprising Hugh Boutin, Christophe Dauverne, Laure Talon, Henri Donis, Viktor Svetoslavov, Ivaylo Rangelov, and Vladimir Petkov—who ensured a high level of expertise and objectivity.

As a long-standing partner of the initiative, Olimport once again demonstrated its commitment to young talent by presenting a cash prize to the winner, Nikol Chausheva—an investment in her education, professional development, and future equipment. Olimport awarded special certificates of participation to every finalist in the "Best Young Chef" category, as well as to their instructors, in recognition of their efforts, dedication, and high level of preparation. With this gesture, the company reinforces its role as a bridge between business and education.

In recognition of its contribution, Olimport received a special award from the Association of Schools of Restaurant and Hotel Management in Bulgaria.

Inspiring messages to students, teachers, and the industry

Immediately after the awards ceremony, Milena Asenova, Executive Director of Olimport, addressed the students present with inspiring words:
"Having reached the final round, you are all winners. Be proud of the wonderful professions you have chosen, and remember that the future of tourism in Bulgaria depends on your knowledge, skills, and passion for the field." She also offered special recognition to the educators: "Special praise goes to the people who have guided you on the path to success—your teachers—the inspirers and the unsung heroes. A round of applause for all the teachers." Speaking on behalf of the company, she added, "We at Olimport wish to express our appreciation and gratitude for their dedicated work and the inspiration they provide, and we would like to present them with honorary certificates." In her address to representatives from the education sector, the business community, and industry organizations, Milena Asenova emphasized the importance of collaboration:
"I believe that together—all of us—we can boost the motivation and qualifications of students in the sector and make Bulgaria a recognized tourist destination."

                                                 

The future of tourism begins with education

The competition final once again demonstrated that Bulgaria possesses talented, motivated, and inspired young people ready to develop the tourism and culinary sectors to a high international standard. Olimport will continue to stand by them—offering support, expertise, and a long-term vision for the future of the industry.