A select group of 24 Bermuda members gathered in the Bank of Butterfield’s private dining room for a memorable event which was a fundraiser dinner in support of Chef Anthony DaPonte Sousa. An evening of culinary indulgence which was a feast for the senses also a heartfelt gesture to support and encourage this promising young chef.

In May 2023, Chef Anthony triumphed in Bermuda's National Final of the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs (JCR) Competition. He earned the honour of representing the Bailliage on the international stage at the International JCR Final in Istanbul where unfortunately he wasn’t successful enough to be placed in the top three.

Our dinner served multiple noble purposes. Firstly, to raise essential funds to help Chef Anthony realise his dream of competing on the global stage. It also provided him with a real-life practice session to refine his culinary skills and perfect his artistry in the kitchen. Lastly we had an opportunity to come together and wish Chef Anthony the best of luck in the upcoming international competition, a testament to the Bailliage’s support for its culinary talent.

As the evening ended, attendees were treated to a Bank of Butterfield private tour by its President, Chaîne member Michael Schrum, giving a glimpse into the bank's modernized yet classically inspired interior. A fitting finale to an evening celebrating tradition and innovation.

The fundraiser dinner’s success was made possible through the generous support of esteemed sponsors who share our vision of nurturing Bermuda's culinary talent. We extend our gratitude to Hamilton Princess Hotel, Bank of Butterfield, Lonestar Fisheries, Debragga, Discovery Wine, Pitt & Co, and Goslings for their unwavering support for this exceptional evening and Chef Anthony's journey to Istanbul.

Based on a detailed report prepared by Bailli Sylvia Oliveira