By: Richard L. Smith
A celebration of culinary talent, nutrition education, and community wellness took center stage at Bowser Elementary School, where SodexoMagic hosted its first-ever Future Chef and One Table Food Festival, according to information released by the company, school officials, and the East Orange school district.
The event, held in collaboration with Sodexo Magic’s Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) team, welcomed more than 120 attendees—including students, parents, Board of Education members, educators, and Superintendent Dr. Kevin Irving—to experience a vibrant showcase of health-focused programming, food demonstrations, and student-led culinary innovation.
Promoting community health was a central theme. Attendees participated in hands-on cooking and nutrition workshops, including SodexoMagic’s signature Magic Kitchen sessions.
Dietitian Alyssa Muscio led interactive demonstrations highlighting the company’s international Big City Bites menu offerings, including a flavorful Nashville chicken sandwich, set to debut on local school menus beginning March 19, 2025.
Health services were also provided on-site, thanks to the Vituity Cares Foundation, which offered free screenings, including BMI, blood pressure, and glucose checks.
One of the most anticipated moments of the festival was the Future Chef competition, which empowered young culinary talents to bring their original recipes to life.
Out of 56 submissions, six students were selected to receive chef mentorship and prepare their dishes in front of a live audience.
Judged by a panel including Superintendent Dr. Irving, Board President McPhatter, Assistant Principal Kathy Brantley, returning Future Chef winner Macerna Cerdna, and Sage McPhatter, the competition crowned 5th grader Farhan Sammy as this year’s champion.
Representing Bowser Elementary, Farhan won over the judges with his standout dish, D’ Zesty Salmon paired with garlic potatoes and broccoli. His mother, who also serves as the school’s PTO Vice President, joined him as his sous chef. Farhan will go on to represent his school in the statewide Future Chef competition.
The festival was made possible through support from several organizations, including East Orange Public Schools, The Church of Pentecost, Vituity Cares Foundation, Green Bronx Machine, Merck, the Magic Johnson Foundation, and AALF EBRG.
Founded in 2006, SodexoMagic is a joint venture between NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Sodexo Inc., known for delivering high-quality food and facilities services with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and community empowerment.