From March 17–21, 2026, LEPL College “Mermisi” participated in the second international culinary competition Students’ Creative Food, organized by APF Valtellina, an accredited Italian agency for vocational training and employment services. The event brought together 21 teams from 15 countries (Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary, Croatia, Albania, Latvia, Georgia, Vietnam, and Morocco). The competition was open to students aged 16–24 studying in hospitality and culinary vocational schools and colleges.

 It was a special honor that Georgia was represented by College Mermisi. The national team consisted of three students — Elene Sanaia, Saba Grigalashvili, and Nikoloz Namgaladze — and two teachers — Vakhtang Devdariani and Gogi Bazandarashvili.

 According to the competition rules, each team presented a three-course menu including a vegan appetizer, a main course, and a dessert, with each dish paired with an appropriate beverage — Georgian wine. Teams were judged using predefined criteria assessing both technical skills and overall performance.

The team proudly represented the college and won the award “Country Testimonial Award.”

The competition once again proved that it is more than a contest — it is an educational experience that fosters international relations and offers students opportunities for growth and professional development.

The college administration sincerely thanks the event organizers, the jury, all participants, vocational education teachers, and everyone who supported the competition. We congratulate the winners and wish even greater success in the future.