“I’m a proud Ivy Tech grad. If anything else, I hope to make Ivy Tech proud.”
Foster’s journey to the World Food Championships was not without its challenges. He opened Foster’s Cafe and Catering on Ivy Tech’s Lawrence campus in March 2020, just before the COVID-19 pan- demic hit. The pandemic forced Ivy Tech to enforce social distanc- ing, and Foster faced immense un- certainty as a new business owner. “I thank God for Ivy Tech because they allowed me to remain in that space in Lawrence during that diffi - cult time,” Foster shared. “All the savings that I had was gone. All the money friends had given me to help start my business was also gone. And I wasn’t able to get any loans because the
government was like, ‘You’re a new business, and you haven’t lost enough money.’ But God got me through, and we just adapted as best we could until it was time to fully open up.” Building became the thriving hub for delicious breakfast and lunch specialties that we know today. After gaining valuable experience in the cafe, Foster decided to step into the competitive arena in 2023. Eventually, Foster’s Cafe and Catering inside the Fairbanks At the beginning of 2023, Foster threw his hat in the ring for Second Helpings annual Souper Bowl. His Ethiopian Spiced Smoked Lamb Stew came in first
place, showcasing his diverse culi- nary talents. Then, Foster’s culinary journey took a significant leap forward when he claimed the top spot at the TURN Festival’s Perfect Bite Competition, held at the Indianap- olis Paramount Schools of Excel- lence in September. His winning dish, seared lamb chops with pumpkin polenta and sofrito, was not only a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to his culinary artistry. This is a blessing,” Foster ex- claimed. “I went into this competition just trying to do my best. These people are titans in our industry, so to come away with
Photos by: Brady Foster
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