Greeley West students continue to represent in the community, as West was able to send two Spartans to a One Plate Challenge that took place at the Cherry Creek Innovation Center.

 Seniors Omari Edwards and Aydin Fermin are notoriously known for their skills in the kitchen and cooking class and were the two valiant representatives who took up the challenge.

Growing up, Omari Edwards was always in the kitchen where he learned an interest in the craft by watching his grandmother cook for him. With his knack of curiosity, Edwards was always interested in seeing how the products of the kitchen end up being made.

Edwards has been in cooking classes all four years of his high school career, his love for cooking not only has been continuing to be fueled but his mentor and cooking teacher Brenda Guzman has been opening the doors for him any chance she gets.

Edwards shared his first and initial thoughts on receiving the opportunity. “At first I was incredibly excited,” Edwards explained.  “I saw it as a chance to express my love through cooking and showcase my skills.”

Aydan Fermin, a Filipino born Oahu, Hawaii, has explained that growing up on the island there has been a diverse food culture with him for as long as he can remember. Like his teammate, he names his inspiration as his grandmother and father.

While only being here for half the time his partner has, Fermin has been able to work and power through Guzman’s catering class to be able to be a part of her highest program which is known as Work Based Learning.

Fermin explains that he was expecting to be tested throughout the competition, but revealed that he could handle the pressure.

“Being watched and judged turned out to be less stressful than I initially thought,” Fermin shared. “As soon as I was able to get comfortable, I felt like I was in my kitchen and just decided to let my cooking do the talking.”

Edwards and Fermin have since taken advantage of their resources in school with both of them looking to advance in their culinary careers. The duo have similar goals as they both have set their focus on culinary education after high school. Both dream of having their own restaurants in the future.

Winners of the competition aren not announced until June, so students and faculty around Greeley West will have to wait anxiously for the results. In the end, it’s great to see these local master chef’s cook up in the kitchen and see them open doors as they reach their desired careers.

Photo Credits: Omari Edwards

Watching as their dish gets judged