BECOME A STAGIAIRE

How Does The Program Work?

The Stagiaire Foundation engages established Chefs and Beverage professionals from around the world in an exploration of the food and drink traditions of the Southern U.S.

Expanding on the traditional culinary stage experience, the Foundation’s programs will foster global appreciation of the region’s foodways and cross-cultural exchanges of ideas, traditions, and techniques.

This unique experience will come to life for consumers through our Stahj “show-and-tell” dinner series and a docuseries.

Who Hosts the Stagiaires?

Each Stage experience is curated and hosted by volunteer “Coaches,” award-winning Southern chefs and barkeeps.  

Experiences are designed to immerse Stagiaires in the traditions, techniques, ingredients, and customs that define Southern food and drink. 

Unlike the traditional stage where the primary focus is training, through our program Stagiaires will engage in peer-to-peer learning and cultural exchange. 

Coaches will provide ongoing guidance to Stagiaires and participate in show-and-tell dinners that engage consumers in the experience.

How Is The Program Structured?

Selected Stagiaires will participate in two, 7-10 day programs. The first program will focus on the learning experience and the second will focus on sharing newly-acquired knowledge through a series of “show-and-tell” dinners and events at the Stahj event space located outside of Atlanta, GA. Proceeds from the dinners will help underwrite future stages.

In between trips, Stagiaires are expected to incorporate what they learned into their own restaurants or bars, creating a special menu, dish or drink that captures the essence of the experience. During this time, Coaches will also be available to Stagiaires for ongoing guidance and support.

Trip #1: Stage Experience (7 – 10 days)
Trip #2: Stahj Dinner Series (7 – 10 days)

What Does The Program Cost?

The Stagiaire Foundation will underwrite the travel, lodging, and travel visa expenses for participating Stagiaires.

What Qualifications Are Required?

The Stagiaire Foundation is open to Chefs and Beverage Professionals with at least 7 years experience and who are interested in expanding their knowledge and understanding of the food and drink traditions of the Southern U.S. region.

Stagiaires commit to participating in 2 trips, each 7 – 10 days in duration, and to sharing the outcome of their Stage experience with peers and customers (e.g., presentation at industry events, inclusion of a dish or drink on a menu, special dinner to showcase what was learned), including participation in the Stahj “show-and-tell” dinner and events in Atlanta, GA. 

Additionally, select participants will have an opportunity to share their experience as part of a docuseries created by The Foundation.

How Do I Apply?

The Stagiaire Foundation will begin accepting applications online on May 15, 2019.  The process will be simple – complete the application form and indicate which Stage experiences are of interest.  Applications will be reviewed and final selections made by Coaches and the Foundation Board. 

If you are interested in applying to the program, please add your name to our sign-up list and we will alert you when the application period opens in May.