Five Chefs Selected for the World Food Culture Exchange Fund 2026 Program

The World Food Culture Exchange Fund (WFC) is excited to announce the selection of five exceptional chefs for its 2026 program. Aimed at promoting the development of global food culture, this initiative is a convergence of talent and innovation in the culinary arts. This year, the selected chefs hail from Brazil, Canada, the United States, South Korea, and Taiwan, and include esteemed figures from highly acclaimed restaurants.

Meet the Participants

1. Giovana Nacarato

As the head chef of Taberna Japonesa Quina do Futuro, which is recognized as one of Brazil’s top Japanese restaurants by “50 Best Discovery,” Giovana brings a unique perspective to the program.

2. Harun Sefa Younussi

Starting his culinary journey at the tender age of 16, Harun has honed his skills in renowned Toronto restaurants such as Piano Piano and Alo. At just 22, he became the head chef at Aloette, showcasing a remarkable trajectory in his career.

3. Matthew Kammerer

Matthew is the executive chef at The Harbor House Inn, a Michelin two-star restaurant located along California’s picturesque Mendocino coast, highlighting the finesse and creativity of West Coast cuisine.

4. Park Sung Bae

Leading the kitchen at Onjium, a Michelin one-star restaurant in Seoul, Park has an impressive background, having begun his career at the Shilla Hotel's restaurant Sorabol. His experience spans Korea, Japan, and the U.S.

5. Yao Yu Chiang

The head chef of L'Atelier par Yao in Taichung, Taiwan, Yao has been recognized for his exceptional talent, appearing in the 2024 and 2025 Michelin Guides and earning the title of 'Rising Star 2024' from Tatler Dining.

Program Overview

Participants will immerse themselves in a transformative five-day program at some of Japan’s top restaurants, which include Michelin three-star establishments and those named among Asia's best. Chefs will have the rare opportunity to interact directly with leading culinary professionals, gaining insights into their techniques and philosophies. The final day of the program culminates in a collaborative cooking challenge, where chefs will create a dish inspired by their experiences throughout the week.

The program runs from February 3 (Tuesday) to February 7 (Saturday) in 2026, featuring renowned restaurants such as Crony,傳, 鮨しゅんじ, and 茶禅華 as participating venues.

About the World Food Culture Exchange Fund (WFC)

Established as a non-profit foundation, WFC aims to foster global culinary development through exchanges between upcoming chefs and top-tier Japanese restaurants. By bridging culinary cultures, the fund contributes to the evolution of food traditions across the globe.

Learn More

For more information about the WFC and its initiatives, visit their website here or follow their Instagram here.

About the Japan Private Trust Foundation

The Japan Private Trust Foundation is committed to creating sustainable bridges in society. Established in 2024, it focuses on efficiently redirecting wealth to those in need, supporting social contribution activities to achieve sustainable dreams and returns. More information can be found on their website here or by contacting them at [email protected]. Their headquarters is located in Tokyo, Japan,

Address: 18th Floor, Midtown Tower, 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052.