HOLY SHIITAKE – My Hospitality Pitch Program Experience

It’s damn hard work starting a hospitality business. HOLY SHIITAKE created by Silver Chef and Wondering Cooks, is a hospitality pitch program ran over the past three weeks and I had the absolute pleasure of being involved. There were three nights hosted in total; a networking night with panels, a workshop night to develop a pitch and finally, Pitch Night!

It was inspiring to work with a bunch of motivated people and really see them all grow before my eyes. I coached at the workshop and judged on finals night and it was incredibly impressive to see everyone come together and give it their best shot on stage and then support each other. The difference between the pitches at the workshop and the pitches I saw on pitch night was huge. Everyone obviously worked their butts off practicing and refining their pitch over the week to put their best foot forward.

I have never been involved in something like this before and it felt fantastic to be involved and contribute to such a supportive community. I met so many wonderful and humble people who I hope to remain in touch with.

Congratulations to everyone that got up there, and I can’t wait to see what the winners do with their prizes!

The final three winners who took home their share of $50,000 worth of prizes – equipment and valuable business mentoring were:

1st Prize = Mongrel, bar and kitchen (can’t wait to go visit this awesome, crazy bunch and try their unique food)
2nd Prize = Genki, almond milk (I’ve been adding this to my morning smoothies, a-mazing!)
3rd Prize = Bask & Co, gluten free granola (helloooo Anzac biscuits! I’ve been eating this as dessert each night!)
Honorable Mention = Zandi Organics won a stall at Regional Flavours event in Brisbane from Brisbane Marketing, and a $15,000 personal investment from judge Johann Moonsighe. (Their tumeric latte is lovely.)

Congratulations Holy Shiitake! A fantastic initiative and well done to everyone involved. I feel privileged to have been a be part of  something special and look forward to the next one.

More stunningly candid pics by the amazing The Soul Echo here.