March 21, 2026
PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Nikkitres Daniel, Program Manager
Change of Heart Youth Program of America, Inc. of Broward County, FL
Office: 754-207-3334 | Nikkitres@cohypoainc.org | www.cohypoa.com
DISTRICT 5 NEXT TOP JR CHEF CHALLENGE:
POMPANO TEENS TO COMPETE THIS SPRING IN THE 2026 JR. CHEF COOKING CONTEST
POMPANO BEACH, FL – This April 2026 and May 2026, the culinary talents of
Pompano Beach's District 5 youth will take center stage as Change of Heart Youth
Program of America, Inc. announces its inaugural "District 5's Next Top Chef" Jr. Chef
Cooking Contest.
The three-part event series invites teens aged 12-18 from Collier City,
Hunter's Manors, Pompano Beach Highlands, and surrounding neighborhoods to
showcase their skills in the kitchen—and on camera. Participants will not only compete for prizes but will also film their entire experience, from shopping for ingredients to the final plating, capturing their unique culinary journeys. The contest is designed to empower youth with essential life skills, promote healthy eating on a budget, and foster community pride.
The competition features (3) distinct themed challenges, each held on separate
dates. Participants may register for one challenge only on a first-come, first-served basis:
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Grill Master (Outdoor Cookout Contest): Taking the heat to a community park
grill station, participants have 45 minutes to prepare a complete BBQ style meal with
provided proteins and seasonal vegetables, emphasizing safety and temperature
control. April 11, 2026 @ In Person | 12pm-3pm @Hunter Manors Park
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Home Kitchen Hero (Indoor Challenge): Contestants have 60 minutes to
create a healthy, budget-friendly family dinner for four, incorporating at least one
locally grown ingredient. May 16, 2026 @ Online & In-person | TBA
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Sweet Sensations (Dessert Challenge): In 75 minutes, bakers will craft a
signature dessert showcasing Florida flavors like citrus, coconut, and mango, while
incorporating a "mystery basket" item. May 30, 2026 @ Online & In-person | TBA
THE CHALLENGES:
Each challenge will be judged by local chefs, nutritionists, and community leaders based on 4 categories:
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Taste (40%),
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Creativity (30%),
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Presentation (20%),
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Safety/Hygiene (10%).
Prizes will be awarded per challenge, with
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First-place winner receiving a $200 visa gift card.
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Second-place winner will take home a $100 visa gift card.
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Third-place winner will receive a $50 visa gift card.
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All contestants will receive a culinary toolkit and a certificate.
This contest is about more than just cooking—it's about building confidence,
teaching practical life skills and giving our youth a platform to express their creativity.
Having them film their own experiences adds a whole new dimension of storytelling and
empowerment.
Registration is now open, and spots are limited. Eligible youth must reside in Pompano
Beach District 5 communities and provide proof of address.
To register or for more information,
Contact:
Nikkitres Daniel
Program Manager
Change of Heart Youth Program of America, INC.
A 501c (3) Non-Profit Charity Organization, EIN 82-4827821
954.630.5069 | www.cohypoa.com | Nikkitres@cohypoainc.org
Change of Heart Youth Program of America, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to
empowering young people in Broward County through educational programs, life skills
development, and community engagement initiatives.