There are many different ways for people to do good and contribute to positive change in society. Numerous initiatives from the hospitality industry have proven time and again that restaurants can also do their part for a better world. The jury of the "World's 50 Best Restaurants" therefore also presents an annual award to restaurants and chefs with a positive impact in the run-up to the main ceremony. These three visionaries can now proudly call themselves "Champions of Change 2024":

Roots Modena, Italy

Sponsored by S. Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, the first prize was awarded to Caroline Caporossi and Jessica Rosval of Roots Modena . The duo's initiative supports women with a migrant background. In 2020, they founded the "Association for the Integration of Women" with the aim of offering prospects and opportunities to those starting a new life in a foreign country. In 2022, they opened Roots Modena alongside co-founder Maria Assunta Ioele. During the day, it serves as a co-working space, and in the evening, it transforms into a restaurant. Here, young professionals have access to a training programs that give them self-confidence and job qualifications.

© World's 50 Best

Caroline Caporossi and Jessica Rosval were elated to be named "Champions of Change 2024": "It is a great honor to receive this recognition. We are very proud of our graduates. Roots' success is based on the value they bring to our kitchen every day, and this award is further proof of the human and economic potential of women everywhere."

Roots Modena
Via Francesco Selmi 67, 41121 Modena MO, Italy
Tel.: +39 592153887
Web: rootsmodena.com

Diamantes Na Cozinha, Brazil

Brazilian chef João Diamante was also honored for creating the project "Diamantes Na Cozinha" (Diamonds in the kitchen). Offering cooking, nutrition and hospitality courses aimed at young people living in socially precarious conditions, up to 100 students take part in his courses each semester. The highly-trained aspiring professionals are thus given a new perspective and highly-sought qualifications. The majority of its graduates join his team at the Diamante Gastrobar in Rio de Janeiro.

© World's 50 Best

João Diamante on his latest honor: "Being named a Champion of Change is a great compliment, and I am grateful for the appreciation of our work. This project was created to help people from socially disadvantaged neighborhoods in Rio on their way to a better future, and I am proud to be able to share this success with a global audience."

Diamante Gastrobar
R. Visc. de Itamarati, 42 - Loja D - Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20550-140, Brazil
Tel.: +55 21 99451-5488
Web: instagram.com/gastrobardiamante