Guest Chefs in Residence 2023

NAIT welcomes Calgary restaurant-owners and culinary dream team

Connie DeSousa

Co-chef and co-owner

Celebrated for her butchery skills and simple approach to food, you will recognize Connie DeSousa from her appearances on Top Chef Canada, Top Chef All Stars and, most recently, as a judge for Food Network's Fire Masters. She is one of Canada’s most celebrated female chefs with both an empathetic, yet fierce, approach to her work, life and fitness. Connie is driven to succeed. Once she sets her sight on a goal, she accomplishes it. Read full bio

John Jackson

Co-chef and co-owner

An accomplished chef and co-owner of several award-winning restaurants and businesses, John Jackson has been a leader and a mentor to so many young chefs and entrepreneurs dedicating his time to changing lives and nourishing those around him. Growing up in Saskatchewan, he started cooking at the young age of 15, out of necessity, where he realized that, in a kitchen, social status did not matter and the way to get ahead was to focus and work hard. He set out on a steady, ambitious career path, travelling and working in some of the world’s most well-known restaurants, attaining success with his many awards, nominations and notable achievements. John studied sausage- making in Italy’s Marche and later landed at the St. Regis in New York. Read full bio

Check out their Calgary restaurants

Together, chefs Connie DeSousa and John Jackson own several restaurants and businesses in Calgary and are doing their part to put the city on the world's culinary map. Here are a few restaurants to check out next time you're there:

How John Jackson and Connie DeSousa found balance in the culinary industry

2023 NAIT Hokanson Chefs in Residence show how good times will come, but not easily

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