KINGSTON, Jamaica — Oraine Livingston, a 29-year-old media professional, claimed first place in the Mystery Basket category of the 2025 National Youth in Agriculture competition, held in August during the 71st Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show in Clarendon.

While passing through the 4-H Clubs Village, Livingston, who was on assignment for SunCity Radio where he works in media production, responded to a call for three volunteers to join an impromptu cook-off.

Participants were presented with a set of pre-selected ingredients and required to prepare a dish on the spot using only those items.

“When I saw the products that we were working with, I instantly knew what I was going to cook,” he said.

Livingston prepared a spicy, creamy mackerel pasta dish using macaroni, mackerel, cabbage, scallion, carrot, bell peppers, onion, thyme, and lime juice, among other ingredients.

He noted that the feedback was positive, sharing that the judges thoroughly enjoyed the dish. He attributed his success to the flavour and presentation, which he believes set his entry apart.

“I remember that one judge said, ‘perfect use of the natural seasoning’. She [said she] could taste the flavour in everything,” Livingston said.

He earned a $10,000 cash prize, part of the more than $220,000 distributed among this year’s top performers across all categories.

“It was amazing to be at Denbigh and to be a part of the competition. I love cooking, so it was an amazing feeling. The competition is good [because] it allows you to flex your creativity,” he said.

A resident of Portmore, St Catherine, Livingston credits his formative years in Portland and Kingston for shaping his culinary instincts. He grew up surrounded by family members who were exceptional cooks.

“I love cooking. I grew up with parents who cook. Nobody taught me how to cook…I just had to watch and learn,” he said.

Livingston expressed sincere appreciation for the hands-on mentorship received during the cook-off, describing the experience as both rewarding and professionally enriching.

“While preparing the food, we had somewhat of a teacher. She (the mentor) would tell you, ‘remember to keep the area clean’, or ‘don`t use the knife for that’. She walked you through the basics… even that felt good,” he said.

Livingston conveyed a strong interest in returning to the competition next year, should the opportunity arise, and encouraged other young Jamaicans to participate.

“Absolutely… even if you are just learning to cook. You are not judged or put down if you do not know what to do. People are there to help you through the process. The people are nice, you are getting some good products to work with, and the vibes are nice,” he said.

— JIS