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Belize City, Belize – August 8, 2025 – The Belize Tourism Board (BTB), through its Elevate Training Institute (ETI), proudly announces that Belize has officially secured an American Culinary Federation (ACF) Property Membership—marking a historic milestone for the nation’s hospitality industry.
This prestigious membership grants Belize’s top culinary professionals and properties exclusive access to ACF resources, international networking opportunities, and globally recognized certification pathways.
In alignment with this achievement, ETI has officially launched its Culinary Certification Program in partnership with the ACF and the Detroit Institute of Gastronomy (DIG). The first cohort includes fourteen (14) chefs representing nine (9) premier properties from across the country, including: The Banks, The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant, Naia Resort & Spa, Slate & Sap, Grand Caribe, San Ignacio Resort Hotel, Seri Del Mar, Umaya Resort, Chef Rob’s Gourmet Café, as well as the Cayo Centre for Employment Training.
Participants are currently pursuing Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Sous Chef certifications—earning globally recognized credentials that validate and elevate their culinary expertise.
“The ACF Property Membership and the introduction of our culinary certification program represent a new chapter for Belize’s tourism sector. These achievements set a higher benchmark for training, excellence, and international recognition, reaffirming our commitment to a competitive, skilled, and globally respected hospitality workforce,” said Evan Tillett, Director of Tourism.
The certification program features rigorous theoretical and practical training, led by ACF Approved Certification Evaluators and Mentors, CEC Michael Harants and CEC Jeremy Abbey. The first sessions were conducted August 7–8, 2025, focusing on core culinary techniques and international standards to prepare participants for both the written and practical certification examinations.
Through this collaborative effort between Belizean chefs, leading hotels and restaurants, ACF, and BTB’s Elevate Training Institute, the initiative is building a pipeline of certified culinary talent. This will enhance the visitor experience and further solidify Belize’s position as a premier culinary destination in the region.
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