Bryn Williams and Coleg Llandrillo launch Ambassador Programme to mentor young talent in hospitality

Acclaimed chef Bryn Williams will mentor Coleg Llandrillo students in an exciting new initiative for young people aspiring to professional careers in tourism and hospitality.

The Bryn Williams Ambassador Programme@Coleg Llandrillo will include invaluable work experience opportunities for learners under the guidance of the esteemed Coleg Llandrillo alumnus.

Since studying hospitality at the college, Bryn, from Denbigh, has built an internationally recognised career and is Chef Proprietor of Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias, as well as Chef Patron of The Cambrian in the Swiss Alps, having also previously run Odette’s in London.

Bryn is excited to give back to the college that first shaped his culinary journey. Under the Ambassador Programme, he will work closely with students, offering hands-on mentoring, guidance, insights into the ever-evolving hospitality industry, and work experience opportunities at his restaurants.

The partnership will also celebrate North Wales' unique heritage, focusing on bilingualism, sourcing and using local produce, and promoting the principles of zero waste and sustainability.

Bryn said: “I am incredibly excited to return to Coleg Llandrillo and to launch the Bryn Williams Ambassador Programme@Coleg Llandrillo.

"The skills I gained here were instrumental in starting my career, and now it’s time for me, on returning home, to focus on nurturing the next generation of talented professionals.”

The partnership between Bryn and the college will help strengthen the tourism and hospitality industry in North Wales by equipping young people with the skills to excel to global standards.

The programme will focus on nurturing a diverse range of skills, with learners having the opportunity to gain work experience and receive mentoring in both kitchen and front-of-house settings.

Bryn will also share his insight into menu development and industry equipment, further boosting the educational offer available to aspiring young caterers and chefs in the region.

Samantha McIlvogue, Coleg Llandrillo Assistant Principal, said: “Having Bryn Williams as an ambassador is an extraordinary opportunity for our students.

"Not only does it allow our students to learn from one of the best chefs in the industry, but it also reinforces our commitment to fostering local talent and equipping them with the skills to succeed in their chosen careers.”

Paul Flanagan, Coleg Llandrillo Principal, said: “We’re excited to launch the Bryn Williams Ambassador Programme@Coleg Llandrillo. Bryn is a shining example to our learners of what can be achieved through dedicated study and hard work.

"The fact that Bryn’s journey started here at Coleg Llandrillo is a testament to the first-class education provided by our Hospitality and Catering department over many years.

“This partnership will help our learners develop world-class skills, providing the perfect grounding for future success. It will boost one of the most critical sectors in the local economy by creating a highly-skilled workforce trained to global standards and focusing on local produce and sustainability.”

Do you want to work in the hospitality industry? Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Hospitality & Catering programme area offers full and part-time courses from Level 1 to Bachelors Honours Degrees, as well as apprenticeships, NVQs and customised employee training.