Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship
Overview
- Advance your culinary education and elevate your professional journey with the Chef Nik Lim Legacy Scholarship, offered by the BC Hospitality Foundation in partnership with Nessa Van Bergen and Chef Dino Renaerts. This $2,000 award supports aspiring culinary students in British Columbia who are pursuing formal training in culinary arts or related professional studies.
- The scholarship honours the memory of Chef Nik Lim, one of Vancouver’s brightest young chefs, whose passion for mentorship, generosity, and excellence left a lasting impact on the culinary community. Whether you’re beginning your training or building on your existing skills, this scholarship provides meaningful financial support to help you advance your culinary career each year.
Successful applicants will be:
- Be passionate about food and cooking and show a demonstrated commitment to personal and professional growth in hospitality;
- Enrolled or planning to enroll in a culinary-related program in BC; and
- Willing to work in BC’s hospitality industry for at least 2 years after receiving the scholarship.
Timeline
Applications due:
December through March
Review period:
2-3 weeks
Scholarship Disbursement:
Cheques presented at the end of May
How to apply?
01
Complete the online application form
02
Submit a 500–700 word essay explaining why you are pursuing a career in the culinary arts, your career goals, and how this scholarship will help you achieve those goals. *
03
Include the name or description of the course(s) you have applied for.
* Essay specifics: Share your personal connection or passion for food—what inspires you about the culinary field. Be authentic, clear, and professional in your writing.
The successful applicant will be chosen for their:
- Passion for culinary arts and professional growth;
- Commitment to working in BC’s hospitality industry;
- Academic readiness and experience in culinary training;
- Ability to share their story through the essay; and
- The strength of reference letters.
About Nik Lim
Nik Lim was born in Singapore and moved to Canada at age 8, growing up in a culture that celebrated food. By age 14, he knew he wanted to be a professional chef. He trained at Dubrulle Culinary Arts at Vancouver’s Art Institute, graduating in 2001, and quickly advanced through the local culinary scene.
Nik worked at restaurants including Caffe de Medici, Red Door, Hart House, Fraiche, Stanley Park Pavilion, and became one of Vancouver’s youngest Executive Chefs at North Vancouver’s Gusto di Quattro in 2008. Known for his mentorship, Nik supported both junior chefs and floor staff, celebrating their successes as his own.
In 2015, he founded Chef Nik Culinary Services, consulting on projects such as Stong’s Market openings and collaborations with the Capilano Group and other restaurants. His dedication to teaching and sharing knowledge inspired colleagues and friends alike.
This scholarship ensures Nik’s legacy lives on, continuing to mentor and support emerging culinary professionals for years to come.