At Culinary Innovators 2025, we honoured a company that stands out in training the next generation of culinary talent. With pride, we presented the Education Award to the Boury Academy, a programme that guides young professionals to the highest level of gastronomy through an approach that is as intense as it is inspiring.
What makes Boury Academy truly unique is its hands-on, highly personalised approach. While traditional training programmes often remain theoretical, this one revolves around real-life kitchen experience, right at the heart of a top-level gastronomic team. Trainees receive one-on-one coaching from sous-chefs and chef de parties, with a strong focus on technique, mindset and work ethic.
“It’s not just about cooking skills,” says Ben Boury. “We emphasise attitude, discipline, and precision, qualities that make all the difference at the top. The programme is intense, but that’s exactly what makes it so valuable.”
From day one, each trainee is paired with a personal mentor who guides them through the entire journey. Daily feedback, tailored coaching and regular evaluations stimulate not only technical development but also the trainee’s confidence and maturity.
“Halfway through the programme, trainees switch stations to broaden their skillset and stay sharp. We always seek the right balance between challenge and achievability, that’s the only way true growth happens,” Ben adds.
The Academy is designed for young professionals, both kitchen and front-of-house, who already have experience in the hospitality sector but are ready to take the final step toward excellence. The ideal candidate? Someone with a strong foundation, an eager mindset, and a willingness to push themselves to grow further.
Mental strength, according to the Boury team, is just as important as technical ability. Chef Tim Boury plays a key role in this. Present in the kitchen from early morning to late evening, he actively coaches and fine-tunes every detail.
“Lead by example is our philosophy. Being surrounded by people who excel and show strong work ethic naturally inspires trainees to adopt the same mindset. They learn to cope with pressure, take responsibility, and strive for precision.”
Boury Academy doesn’t stop at its own kitchen doors. With a growing network of like-minded chefs, trainees have the opportunity to complete part of their training elsewhere – in Belgium or abroad. And even after completing the programme, the Academy stays involved.
“We continue to support alumni in their career paths, connecting them with leading restaurants around the world. Today, former trainees are already working in Bali, Singapore, Dubai, and New York.”
For Boury Academy, the Education Award is more than a trophy, it’s a validation of their mission and a strong incentive to keep investing in the next generation of talent.
“In many sectors, continuous learning is a given. Unfortunately, in our industry, that’s often not the case, even though we work in a field that’s constantly evolving. There’s actually more demand for advanced culinary training abroad than here in Belgium or Europe. In countries like Japan, Singapore, or South Korea, professionals continue to upskill long after graduation. It’s a highly competitive market, and only the best get opportunities. With Boury Academy, we want to give young chefs and service professionals the tools and mindset to stand out, anywhere in the world.”
With the Boury Academy, the Boury team demonstrates that gastronomic excellence begins with training of the highest standard. A resolutely forward-looking vision that not only educates but also inspires.