Following Culinary Dreams at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris
Two ambitious students from Saudi Arabia are making their mark at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary and hospitality institution in Paris.
In a recent interview with Arab News en Francais, Ghadeer Ibn Khamis and Khulood Almukrain expressed their gratitude to the government for the opportunity to pursue their passion for cooking at the renowned institution.
A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Ghadeer Ibn Khamis made the decision to further her culinary skills after relocating to France with her husband. Opting for the Cordon Bleu diploma specializing in cuisine and pastry, she shared her desire to shift from the fast-paced business environment in Riyadh to focus on her love for cooking.
Khulood Almukrain, who previously worked in banking, was inspired to join the Le Cordon Bleu program after watching the movie “Julie & Julia.” Despite the nerve-wracking decision, she feels confident that it was the right path for her.
Empowering Young Talent in the Culinary World
Both students were recipients of full-time scholarships from Generation 2030, supported by MISK. This initiative aims to empower young individuals in various fields and strengthen Franco-Saudi relations in arts, culture, and fashion.
Saudi Arabia’s growing hospitality scene aligns with the Vision 2030 plan to boost the tourism industry. The upcoming opening of Le Cordon Bleu in Riyadh in 2024/2025 further highlights the country’s commitment to culinary education.
Mastering the Art of French Cuisine
At Le Cordon Bleu, Ghadeer and Khulood are honing their culinary skills through French techniques that emphasize seasonality, quality ingredients, and flavor balance. They aim to blend Saudi Arabian flavors with French expertise, bridging cultural gaps and creating innovative dishes.
French cuisine, known for its technicality, challenges students to push their boundaries and showcase their creativity. Ghadeer and Khulood are mastering the art of pastry and cuisine, incorporating their heritage into their creations.
Preparing for a Bright Culinary Future
Upon completion of the culinary program, students receive the Grand Diplome and a diploma in restaurant management. This equips them with the skills to develop business ideas, manage finances, and design menus, preparing them for successful careers in the culinary industry.
For Ghadeer and Khulood, the journey at Le Cordon Bleu is not just about learning recipes but also about personal growth, confidence building, and cultural exchange. They look forward to bringing their newfound skills back to Riyadh and making their mark in food consultancy and restaurant management.