MS KICK Hosts High-Energy Youth Chef Cook Off

Southern University at Shreveport’s Milam Street Kitchen Incubator & Community Kitchen (MS KICK) recently transformed into a culinary arena of creativity, teamwork, and mentorship during the Youth Chef Cook Off Battle hosted in partnership with Volunteers for Youth Justice and students from Huntington High School Raider Court & Leadership Academy.

The exciting competition welcomed student teams into the kitchen for a high-energy culinary showdown where participants were challenged to create original taco-inspired dishes using mystery basket ingredients and surprise challenge items. From Hot Cheetos and Honey to Dark Chocolate and Barbecue sauce, students were encouraged to think outside the box while learning valuable culinary and leadership skills along the way.

The event featured four teams of students who worked side-by-side with the Tenants of MS KICK, who served as Chef mentors to prepare dishes that were judged on flavor, creativity, presentation, teamwork, and use of ingredients. The competition also welcomed special guests, staff, and community supporters, including one of the judges who proudly served as the students’ High School principal.

“This event was about more than cooking,” said Monique, Executive Director of MS KICK. “It was about mentorship, confidence-building, teamwork, and exposing youth to opportunities within culinary arts and entrepreneurship. Watching the students collaborate, problem-solve, and take pride in their dishes was truly rewarding.”

The atmosphere inside MS KICK was filled with energy, encouragement, and excitement as students navigated timed challenges, plated their creations, and presented them to the judges. Guests and staff enjoyed sampling the dishes while cheering on the teams throughout the competition.

The Youth Chef Cook Off Battle reflects SUSLA’s continued commitment to workforce development, experiential learning, and community engagement through innovative programming. By combining culinary arts with mentorship and leadership development, the event created a meaningful experience that empowered students to explore creativity, communication, and career pathways in the food industry.

MS KICK extends special thanks to the Chef Mentors, Volunteers for Youth Justice, Huntington High School Raider Court & Leadership Academy, faculty, staff, and community supporters who helped make the event a success.

Through initiatives like this, SUSLA and MS KICK continue creating opportunities where education, community, and creativity come together one plate at a time.