The School of Tourism and Hotel Management (THM) at the University of Balamand (UOB) has participated in a Food Competition organized by the Lebanese Academy of Gastronomy on November 8, 2025, at Kitchen Lab, Achrafieh.

Representing UOB were Melissa Fady and Izzat Yassine, two talented THM students who demonstrated their creativity and culinary passion. Participants were asked to prepare two dishes: Chicken with Rice and Parmigiana di Melanzane.

Competing against students from other institutions, Melissa Fady won second place, earning a 700 USD prize. The competition was judged by a panel of four jury members, evaluating each dish based on hygiene, cooking technique, plating, and taste.

The event aimed to develop a “taste of excellence” for both local and international gastronomy, to encourage youth to pursue careers in the food and beverage industry, and to motivate hospitality schools to enhance their culinary programs.

Dr. Jihane Adeimi, THM Director, stated: “Congratulations to Ms. Melissa Fady for earning second place in this national culinary competition organized by the Lebanese Academy of Gastronomy. My gratitude goes to Kitchen Lab for hosting our hospitality students and to our Executive Chef Georges Soueid for his never-ending support. This achievement reflects the talent, dedication, and professionalism of our THM students and the spirit of excellence we strive to uphold at the University of Balamand.”

UOB congratulates Melissa for her admirable performance and thanks the Lebanese Academy of Gastronomy for this enriching experience that celebrates our rich gastronomy and culinary talent.







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