Welcome to TAFE NSW’s award-winning Tasting Success Program. This is an initiative designed to upskill and prepare women for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.

The Tasting Success Program goes beyond developing cooking and patisserie skills. We provide masterclasses and mentoring opportunities to inspire and empower women to thrive in the industry.

The program aims to:

• develop and fast-track your culinary skills

• foster personal growth

• equip you for leadership roles.

Since its launch in 2007, renowned chef and co-founder Lyndey Milan has led the Tasting Success Program. In 2023, we used the Connecting Women to Trades Grant to expand the program to regional NSW. However, beginning in 2024, the program will refocus on TAFE NSW students in the Greater Sydney area.

The Tasting Success Program offers a comprehensive and immersive learning approach, and includes both masterclasses and mentoring. This program goes beyond building exceptional cooking and patisserie skills. It's designed to inspire and empower women to thrive in the industry and become tomorrow’s leaders and mentors.

The program focuses on showcasing possibilities, highlighting best industry practices and celebrating Australia's finest produce. You’ll advance your culinary skills, develop  professional goals, enhance personal growth and build valuable connections within the industry.

Key features

• Expert-led masterclasses for all students.
• 35 hours of personalised mentoring for female students.
• An emphasis on the use of high-quality Australian produce.
• Opportunities for networking and mentorship.

The mentoring component of the program is only for students who identify as female. This is to encourage more female participation in leadership in the culinary field.
The masterclasses are open to all students, regardless of gender. This provides upskilling opportunities and addresses the critical issue of staff retention in the workforce.

The Tasting Success Program is proud to collaborate with some of Australia’s most noted chefs and culinary professionals.
Our mentors bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the program, offering guidance and support to our students.

Previous mentors have included:

• Christine Manfield
• Kylie Kwong
• Alex Herbert
• Mark Best
• Neil Perry
• Martin Benn
• Matt Moran
• Brent Savage
• Naomi Lowry
• Vanessa Harcourt
• Lisa Margan
• Claire Van Vuuren

These professionals share their expertise and guidance to inspire the next generation of culinary leaders.
Many of our graduates have called the program life-changing, with its impact going beyond skill development.

Applications are open during Term 1 of every year. There is no limit on the number of students who can apply for the program.
To get started, email the Tasting Success Program Coordinator to request an application form.