Jamaica’s first gastronomy academy to open this winter tourist season
Bartlett wants young Paris Ruby Gourmet entrepreneur to play key role
Published:Wednesday | July 17, 2024 | 12:06 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Jamaica’s first gastronomy academy will open at the Montego Bay Convention Centre for the upcoming winter tourism season, which kicks off on December 15.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett made the announcement while applauding the efforts of young entrepreneur Zelecia Smith, operator of Paris Ruby Gourmet, during her 5th Anniversary celebration on Sunday night at Pier 1 in Montego Bay.
The event marked a significant milestone for the young businesswoman and highlighted the potential for growth and innovation in Jamaica’s tourism and culinary sectors.
“The academy aims to train young people to become Michelin-standard performers for the business of cuisine development and great restaurants,” Bartlett stated, recognising that it was young people like Zelecia he wants to become part of the academy.
Smith, a former banker, defied all odds, creating a niche market for her Paris Ruby cheesecake, banana bread, bread pudding and fruit cakes, which are carried by Reggae Mart at the Sangster International Airport, Rainforest (Montego Bay), Things Jamaica, Norman Manley International, Fontana Pharmacy (during Christmas) and soon to be found at Dufry.
Captivated by Smith’s commitment and innovation, the tourism minister shared his initial encounter with her.
“When I saw her reaching out and attending some of our Christmas in July events and other promotional events we do through the Tourism Enhancement Fund, I said ‘look, this is a star that I’m prepared to ensure shines’,” he remarked.
Bartlett praised Smith’s initiative and promised support from the Ministry of Tourism, while inviting her to apply for the $25 million ExIm Bank programme aimed at small and medium tourism enterprises.
“We are about upskilling, expanding, and enabling small enterprises in tourism to become large enterprises,” he stated.
Smith’s ability to innovate in the bakery industry, particularly her shift towards gourmet pastries, was highlighted as a prime example of the creative spirit driving Jamaica’s culinary scene.
Bartlett celebrated Zelecia’s journey and the broader implications of her success.
“I came here to praise you for your innovation, tenacity, and assiduity to purpose. You showed us that a young person with talent, skill, determination, commitment, and vision can stay the long haul. And five years is a good start,” he said.
He encouraged the young girls in Orange District, St. James, Smith’s rural community, to look up to her as a role model, emphasising that “the world is your oyster”.
The Minister also acknowledged the support Smith received from her father, Gladstone Smith, who inspired her to start the business.
Although unable to attend, Adam Stewart of Sandals Resorts sent his regrets and congratulations, highlighting the importance of strong examples and supportive parents in guiding young entrepreneurs.