A leading presence in the Fraser Valley of BC since 2002, and a growing YouTube influencer.I am a certified Red Seal Chef, Culinary Instructor, Food Columnist, Author of 9 books (including my latest cookbook "GLUTEN-FREE COOKING WITH CHEF DEZ" released in May 2024), and Host for many events. I am also the Corporate Chef for BC Egg (since 2000), and I was the Western Canada Sales Rep for Big Green Egg from 2014 to 2023.Since 2002 I built my culinary career offering cooking classes and performing cooking shows (both live and on TV). These culinary classes and cooking shows are a reflection of the enthusiasm I have for food and people. It is an absolute joy to meet so many great people and have the opportunity to rekindle their food passions in the kitchen. I make sure that my classes are fun, informative and not intimidating. I truly believe that a learning environment that is entertaining will equal optimal results, and thus I do my best to ensure an enjoyable time for you. Through these cooking shows and classes, I have authored 8 books all focused around food and opening up the culinary arts to thousands of people.My food column (Chef Dez on Cooking) runs in many community newspapers across Canada and Washington State, and I make appearances at a variety of events - please click on the "Media Appearances" tab on my website for more details. Food and food preparation has always been a large part of my life. Although I have a French & German heritage, I absolutely love Mediterranean cuisine, like Greek & Italian, and also Southern and Tex-Mex cuisines. I was born and raised in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, and this is where I "hang my hat" today. I have worked side by side with some great Chefs in Canada throughout my career, and I bring their knowledge to you. I like to focus on creating incredibly delicious dishes that are made with local everyday ingredients. This along with a "side dish" of Morals, Family Values and Garnish makes the Chef Dez "Experience" a well-rounded one.