Project Success Institute Collaborates with Celebrity Chef Rosh, Creating Food for the Soul

Food is culture, connection, and, ultimately, community. And at the Project Success Institute, our staff and students are no strangers to exploring the diverse flavors and histories of the dishes students learn to create. Our PS staff have put extensive research and care into creating lesson plans that educate, inspire, and support students’ interests in the culinary world. Whether students desire to learn to make budget-friendly meals or wish to pursue cooking as a career, there’s an array of possibilities. This trimester was unique as students had the opportunity, thanks to staff connections, to learn from guest chefs from restaurants throughout the Twin Cities and beyond! In doing so, students were able to learn about delicious meals from individuals who were experts in their specific culturally connected dishes. One of the guest chefs that came to the PS Institute was the winner of the Food Network Show “Chopped,” Chef Rosh!  

Chef Rosh, a Hell’s Kitchen contestant and a member of 5 Star Chef Organization, has expertise in culinary design and presentation. Highly passionate about her craft, she shared with students her personal journey to culinary self-discovery, as well as a meal close to her heart, Sindhi Kofta Curry. 

Introducing dishes from different cultures to students engages them in the various spices and flavors that exist in the world and gives students the tools to go into their own kitchen and cook whatever they like, with their deepened understanding of flavors and spices. The PS Institute Manager, Emily Vang, is hoping to perfect this model of learning by continuing to bring guest chefs to the cooking class.  

The PS Institute is a space for all students who are looking for a place to learn and build community. With the help of volunteers and additional contractor expertise, students who need additional support and attention have it. No matter a student’s background or experience in the kitchen, there’s a space for them here. Institute Program Manager Emily had this to say, “The students are the ones who register and come to class. They come each week because they want to be here. We’ve set an essential agreement in all our certificates that students get to challenge by choice. Everything they do in the space; they are supported by staff and volunteers.” 

Last trimester, 70 students earned certificates in the Bike Tech, Coding, Money Management, and Cooking PS Institute courses. Many students earned several certificates, attending multiple courses.  Do you have an MPS High School student who you think would be interested in this program? Then, click here for more information on this upcoming trimester.