Culinary Arts student awarded esteemed scholarship

The Food Design Institute is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of third-year Bachelor of Culinary Arts student Alice Bickerstaff, who has been named one of two recipients of the 2025 New Zealand Food Communicator Scholarship.

This national programme recognises emerging voices in Aotearoa’s food sector and provides 12 weeks of mentorship and professional development in areas such as food writing, food photography, styling, social media, and storytelling.

Alice’s passion for food goes far beyond the kitchen. Known for her commitment to community engagement, she has previously collaborated with KiwiHarvest on food rescue initiatives.

The judging panel commended her enthusiasm for food, alongside her dedication to issues like food security and sustainability, noting: “It is apparent that Alice is all over the New Zealand food scene, impressive for her youthful age. Her application was a delight to read.”

The New Zealand Food Communicator Scholarship, founded by respected food writer Kathy Paterson and supported by Cuisine Magazine, Beef and Lamb New Zealand, Sabato, Epicure Trading, and the Outstanding Food Producer Awards, offers a rare opportunity for early-career communicators to learn from leaders in the industry.

We are excited to watch Alice thrive in this unique programme and encourage other students who are passionate about food and communication to consider applying for future rounds.