Willi was a great promoter of the County, and made every effort to showcase locally grown food. He gradually attracted other chefs to the area, thereby helping to establish the County as a culinary mecca. He passed away in 2007. His two children, Alexandre and Melanie, continue to run the restaurant.

Each year, a bursary of $1,500 shall be awarded up to two young people (under 30 years of age) from Prince Edward County who are pursuing a post-secondary culinary education.

• The Willi Fida Educational Bursary is open to youth up to 30 years of age residing in Prince Edward County.
• Students must be seeking full-time admission to a program in culinary education.

NOTE: Students who receive a Willi Fida Culinary Bursary may apply again in the future.

1. Completed application form (available below).
2. A written letter of introduction OR short video (less than 5 minutes to be sent to info@thecountyfoundation.ca or to our social media channels) that provides an overview outlining your school or community activities. Be specific in listing any leadership activities, special projects or initiatives, including what motivates you to pursue culinary education and what your ambitions are after school.
3. Two letters of recommendation from a direct supervisor (work, school, community agency, etc). The letters should cover such topics as your academic motivation and growth potential, your creativity, self-discipline and leadership qualities, and your personal initiative. The letters must include contact information for the person writing the letter.
4. Your most recent high school transcript or if you are a life-long learner, we are happy to accept a copy of your most recent transcript or copy of your grades to show us your academic standing.
5. A copy of the letter of acceptance from your post-secondary institution.

The deadline for applications is May 31st each year.

Applications can be submitted electronically or manually:

The County Foundation evaluates applications in the following four areas:

• Academic competence
• Participation in extra-curricular activities in school, the community, work or as a volunteer, i.e. demonstrated initiative.
• Desire for a culinary career as described in your own words
• Culinary experience to date (work, courses, etc.)

All applicants will receive notice from the Foundation of the results of their application. Additional information or an interview may be requested by the Foundation. All decisions are the sole discretion of the Board of Directors of The County Foundation or their designate, and are final.

The bursary will be paid in one installment directly to the applicant’s post-secondary institution or PECI – whichever is applicable. Before the payment is made, the applicant must submit proof of full-time registration, including student number.

Bursary recipients must begin their post-secondary program in the year of their application.