After exploring with you the conclusion of the fourth edition of the Creative Cooking Diploma, where young Dominicans dedicated their effort and determination to stand out in the competition, it is a privilege to present the interview with the winner, Kathy Rosario. Not only does she stand out as the first woman to emerge victorious in this competition, but she also serves as a tangible example of perseverance in the pursuit of professional goals. Kathy, as she herself emphasizes, did not experience her first foray into the competition, but her second, and despite the challenges, she persisted in her pursuit of progress in her professional career. In this vein, it is an honor to share the exclusive conversation with the recent diploma winner: Good morning, my name is Kathy Paola Rosario Gil, and I'm from Pimentel, a province belonging to the San Francisco de Macorís region. What led you to participate in the Creative Cooking Diploma, and how do you feel about being selected as the winner? Kathy Rosario: The first thing that motivated me to participate in this competition was the desire to grow, surpass myself, and demonstrate that a woman can do it, even on her own. Last year, I participated,

An initiative that turns dreams into realities and takes an extraordinary turn in the Dominican gastronomic future. It is with great joy and satisfaction that I share with you the conclusion of the fourth edition of the Creative Cooking Diploma, an initiative that I proudly support and sponsor to boost Dominican culinary talent. This project, developed in collaboration with the National Institute of Technical and Vocational Training (INFOTEP), has proven to be a breeding ground for exceptional culinary skills and has left an indelible mark on the gastronomic scene of the Dominican Republic. This year, we had the pleasure of witnessing a special milestone: the victory of a woman, Katy Paola Gil, who stood out as the well-deserved winner of this edition. In a clear demonstration of the growing female presence in the Dominican culinary scene, Kathy not only takes home the title of champion but also a valuable scholarship to participate in an advanced culinary techniques workshop at the renowned Basque Culinary Center in Spain. I am proud to be a part of this transformative experience for 25 young people from the Eastern region of the Dominican Republic, who, with dedication and passion, have elevated their culinary skills to new heights. The conclusion

In the dynamic world of gastronomy, I am pleased to announce with great enthusiasm the arrival of the third edition of the Creative Cooking Diploma 2023, a project that goes beyond teaching and becomes a catalyst for opportunities for Dominican youth. This program, born as a vision to empower young enthusiasts of gastronomy, has become a platform to discover and nurture local talent. By supporting this diploma, my goal is to provide these young individuals not only with advanced culinary skills, but also to open doors to a future where their creativity can shine on the world gastronomic stage. The initiative to send the most outstanding student to the prestigious Basque Culinary Center in Spain continues, offering a unique experience that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. This year, as in previous editions, we seek to highlight innovation, passion, and a commitment to excellence in the kitchen. I hope that this diploma serves as a springboard to new horizons, new connections, and, above all, to the flourishing of Dominican talent on the international stage. By continuing to support initiatives like this, we contribute not only to the individual development of participants but also to the enrichment of the rich Dominican culinary heritage. Welcome to the