Local chef, Chef Lesley Stav has been inducted into the Prestigious Honour Society of the Canadian Culinary Federation (CCFCC). One of the highest accolades bestowed upon a Canadian chef, Stav is only the fifth woman in Canada to receive this recognition.
“The Society was developed to honour and recognize leadership, professional excellence, lifetime commitment and the significant contributions a chef makes to our profession and community,” said chef Ronald St. Pierre, owner of the award-winning Locals restaurant and North Vancouver Island Chefs Association (NVICA) chairperson. “Chef Stav exemplifies these standards.”
Stav entered the hospitality industry in 1987, working at Sooke Harbour House while completing the Culinary Arts Program at Camosun College. Moving to Vancouver she joined the culinary team at La Belle Auberge, during which time she received her Red Seal certification. She moved back to Vancouver Island in 2006 to join the culinary team at the Kingfisher Resort and Spa. In 2012 she fulfilled her desire to work with the next generation of chefs and embraced her new role of culinary arts instructor.
“The Honour Society award also recognizes Stav’s work with junior chefs, from mentoring the next generation and promoting culinary careers to encouraging cooks and apprentices to achieve certification while continuing to learn and grow their craft,” said Honour Society chair Bruno Marti. Stav’s passion for the culinary industry and respect for the local food community led her to the North Vancouver Island Chefs Association where she currently serves as president.
Always ready to step up and participate in initiatives that connect community to local chefs, farmers, fishers and producers, Stav was the driving force that brought NVICA FoodFests to the patrons of the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market.
She was also instrumental in creating the working partnership between NVICA and the North Island College-Foundation to present Flavour, The North Island Gourmet Picnic to Vancouver Island.
Through her leadership, boundless energy and dedication to bringing the culinary community of the North Island together, Stav continues to earn the respect of her peers and colleagues.
“I’m humbled with the recognition of my service to the hospitality industry and to our community”, said Chef Stav. “The CCFCC Honour Society Award is a true milestone in my career, and I’m thrilled to continue to use my experience to encourage others to pursue their passion in this rewarding industry.”
–NVICA
