As part of CMHT’s high school outreach, Dr. Luwis Mhlanga worked with UNT alumna, Amanda Benseley to mentor a 5-member team of students at the recent Texas ProStart DFW Culinary Competition, held at Collin College Plano on February 7-8, 2020.  Dr. Mhlanga was able to provide mentoring and feedback regarding plating, flavor, texture, temperature, color and shape of each dish. 

The National ProStart is the country’s premier high school competition focused on restaurant management and culinary arts.  “The culinary competition highlights each team’s creative abilities through the preparation of a three course meal in 60 minutes, using only two butane burners, and without access to running water or electricity” (ProStart).  Each team is evaluated on taste, skill, teamwork, safety and sanitation.

The competition went well. Chef Amanda said they got great feedback and compliments on their knife cuts, sanitation, and team work. Unfortunately, the team was not placed in the top 6, which would qualify them to advance to the next stage. Dr. Mhlanga said, “This was their first time. I am proud of the students and those plates were solid. The students showed dedication and passion. They were in the kitchen from 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm almost every day.”