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The Egyptian Chefs Association (ECA) made a significant impact at the 44th International Exhibition for Hotel Supplies and Tourism Establishments, HACE 2024, held from September 2 to 4. Stealing the spotlight was the HACE Food Hub, a dynamic networking platform curated by the ECA that became the event’s beating heart.
Sponsored by leading brands like Al Safy Foods, Callebaut, Juhayna, Kiri, Maxim Foods, and the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), the hub served as a meeting point for top figures in the food and beverage industry. It wasn’t just about networking; it was about forging collaborations that could shape the future of the culinary world.
Under the apt slogan “Where Culinary Minds Meet,” the hub featured daily discussion sessions that offered a space for industry professionals to exchange insights and delve into culinary trends. These interactive Q&A sessions included renowned figures who brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
One of the standout themes was “Flavors of Heritage,” which hosted sessions on Indian, Korean, and Egyptian cuisines. Attendees were treated to in-depth explorations of these rich culinary traditions, highlighting unique ingredients, cooking techniques, and cultural significance.
The Chef’s Insight Corner offered thought-provoking sessions like “Cooking without Ego”, “The Future Menus,” and “Training the Next Generation of Chefs. “These discussions delved into the evolving role of chefs, the importance of mentorship, and how to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.
Adding another layer to the hub’s offerings were podcasts on topics such as “Street Food Culture” and “Shaghalni,” providing fresh perspectives on popular food movements and employment trends in the culinary sector. Business insight sessions tackled pressing issues like “Challenges and Opportunities in Local vs. Imported Fish,” and showcased innovations with discussions on “Callebaut Chocolate” and “US Meat in Menu Concepts.”
The ECA’s HACE Food Hub transformed the exhibition into more than just a showcase—it became a connection of culinary innovation and collaboration. By bringing together the brightest minds in the industry, the hub not only highlighted Egypt’s growing influence in the global culinary scene but also set the stage for future advancements in food and beverage.
Moustafa El Refaey
Executive Chef Co-Founder, Zooba
Prehan Saleh
Founder / Chef, Gracias Restaurants
Anil Grover
Certified Judge, Worldchefs
Christophe Morel
Master Chocolatier and Pastry Chef - Chocolate Ambassador’s Club Member
Omar Khalifa
Founder & CEO Shaghalni
Wesam Masoud
Co-founder of The Food Lab
Hong Seung – Hee
Chef Korean Cuisine
Lina Kanaan
Managing Director of Agri Marketing & the Representative of USMEF in Egypt, Lebanon & Jordan
Tamer Abdel Dayem
GM, Maxim Food
Essam Sayed
VIP Events & Function Manager at Catrion, KSA
Abdel Rahman EL Zohary
Schools Operations Senior Manager / Ta'heal for VET Skills Excellence
Moustafa Seif
Executive Chef Pier 88 Group & Khufus Restaurant
Shrerif Afifi
Executive Chef Unilever Foodsolutions Egypt
Ahmed Naguib
CEO, Humm Network