Chef John Oteng-Kanadu
Chef John Oteng-Kanadu, a Ghanaian Kuechenmeister (German Master Chef) trained in Germany, boasts over 20 years of culinary experience. Upon moving to the U.S. in 2000, he excelled in various culinary roles, teaching at esteemed institutions like Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts until 2017.
Kanadu is celebrated for his culinary prowess, winning the 2012 State of Georgia Governor’s Cup and earning multiple medals in culinary competitions. An active member of the American Culinary Federation (ACF), he mentored student teams, held administrative roles, and founded Pro Chef Techniques and Pro Servers Academy in Atlanta, Georgia.
In addition to his culinary achievements, Chef Kanadu holds two Master’s degrees in Business Administration and International Business Law, finding joy in spending leisure time with his wife Patricia and their children, Crystal and David.
Chef Esmeralda Castalan
Chef Esmeralda Castalan brings far-reaching knowledge and skills to the program, including student instruction, restaurant management, and designing and planning cuisine for thousands of guests at major events throughout the country. She is a first place American Culinary Federation Gold Medalist Culinary Team Captain. A career changer herself, Esme is uniquely positioned to mentor students who may be entering the culinary world while juggling other career and life responsibilities.
Chef James Johnson
Chef James Johnson brings extensive experience to the program, including student instruction, restaurant management, and designing cuisine for thousands of spectators at major events throughout the country. A culinary graduate himself, Chef James is uniquely holding the positioned to mentor students who may be entering the culinary world while juggling other career and life responsibilities.
