Aboriginal cuisine impressive

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Aboriginal chef and teacher Ben Genaille is gearing up to dazzle his first group of international guests with his unique blend of traditional First Nations and Western cuisine.

Prompted by an article in last June's Raven's Eye news publication, the New World Renaissance Hotel in Kowloon, Hong Kong contacted Genaille and extended an invitation to him to present a special "Canada comes to Hong Kong" event at the luxurious four-star hotel.

Genaille said the trip is a giant step forward to realizing his dream of representing Canadian cuisine on the world stage.

"This kind of exposure is outstanding," he said.

The New World Renaissance Hotel has agreed to sponsor two assistants to accompany Genaille, but he wants to take all four of his proteges, as well as three staff members and a spiritual advisor to make sure the students receive the best care possible.

"Initially, when I got the request I thought I wouldn't go unless [all his students] could come," said Genaille. "I don't want to have to pick and choose, because they're all wonderful and deserve to go."

Genaille estimates that airfare and two-week accommodation for his entire team will cost $35,000 and has so far raised almost $9,000. He's optimistic but could use all the help he can get.