Mentorship & Goal Accelerator Program
“Old Ways, New Hands” is Chef Richard Sandoval’s goal accelerator and mentorship program, aiming to preserve and amplify Latin culture by teaching the next generation of Latin chefs, creators, and restaurateurs both culinary and business skills.
MEET the 2026 CLASS
Chef Richard Sandoval proudly announces the 2026 class of Old Ways, New Hands, his business accelerator program designed to elevate and empower the next generation of Latin Food & Beverage entrepreneurs.
This year’s class reflects the future of culinary innovation and cultural preservation.
FERNANDA GOvaz
CEO FOUNDER, CELZO FUNCTIONAL AGUA FRESCA
EDWIN SANDOVAL
CHEF & OWNER, XATRUCHO
HENRY BLANCO
FOUNDER, EL VIEJO CENTRAL AMERICAN KITCHEN
ALEJANDRO MACIAS Canales
FOUNDER, QUÉ SAZÓN
NORMA ZUNIGA
FOUNDER, DULCE DREAMS CAFE
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"Old Ways New Hands was an incredible journey! I highly recommend it to anyone eager to deepen their involvement in the culinary world. The amazing cohort, talented chefs, and supportive behind-the-scenes staff made this experience truly unforgettable. Not only did I acquire valuable skills in creating a well-executed business, but I also forged lasting friendships and built a strong network within the industry. Chef Richard is cooking a new world of opportunities, offering a fresh and innovative ways to share his knowledge with future chefs, food creators, and restauranteurs."
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"Being a part of Chef Richard Sandoval’s Old Ways, New Hands was truly an honor. Learning directly from such an inspiring culinary expert and his amazing team reaffirmed my belief in the power of food to connect people and celebrate culture. This mentorship was more than just teaching skills; it was about passing down a passion for achieving greatness and highlighting Latino excellence. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to sharpen my skills, honor my family's heritage and rich Mexican traditions, and connect with an amazing community of talented Latino chefs. "
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"'Old Ways, New Hands' was such an incredible learning experience and mentorship opportunity, and I am forever grateful for all the connections and relationships I was able to form! Chef Sandoval and team gave us full access to the soft opening of just one of his numerous international restaurants, and we were able to taste menus, ask questions, and learn about all the logistics and operations involved with running such a huge operation! We even got an opportunity to live out our dreams and compete in a food challenge and have our creations judged, all on film! I am truly lucky to be a part of the first cohort, and implore any aspiring chef, content creator or restaurant owner to apply to next year's campaign!"
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"From the very first day, the program immersed me in the heart of hospitality, allowing me to learn from the best in the field and experience firsthand the magic behind some of the world’s most renowned restaurants. Visiting Richard Sandoval’s iconic restaurants and seeing their daily operations gave me insight into how tradition and innovation are blended in every dish and dining experience. This program has taught me how to combine what I’ve learned with my own vision, propelling me to take my ideas to the next level."
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"I will always be grateful to Chef Sandoval and his delightful team for this inaugural Old Ways, New Hands trip! It was truly an unforgettable experience. As someone who’s recently made the jump from public school teacher to line cook this cohort not only reinforced my decision and built my confidence. It also opened my eyes to the many different ventures and paths I can pursue in the culinary industry and taught me how to workshop and build a beautiful dish from idea to final product. Most importantly though, for me, it built a supportive and proud community of latino chefs, creators, and culinary entrepreneurs that I continue to turn to for ideas, support, and camaraderie!"
IN THE PRESS
