Professional excellence is the foundation upon which the success of any HoReCa establishment is built. Recently, Lviv became the epicenter for professional development and the exchange of expertise: from June 15 to 17, 2026, the First National Vocational Excellence Competition "Lviv Skills 2026" took place.
For the Ukrainian School of Hospitality, participating in such events is a core mission. We do not just provide training; we actively contribute to shaping quality standards within the Ukrainian hospitality industry. We are proud to note that the head of our School, Mykhailo Sheveliuk, served as a member of the jury for the "Waiter" category.
Focus on the Profession: The Art of Service
The waiter category was one of the most dynamic aspects of the competition. Contestants demonstrated not only technical skills—such as table setting, menu knowledge, and service etiquette—but also the ability to "read" the guest, manage expectations, and create the kind of atmosphere that turns a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
As a jury member, Mykhailo Sheveliuk noted the high level of preparation among the participants and their genuine commitment to meeting the industry's modern demands. The judging process adhered to rigorous criteria, evaluating every detail: from professional posture to the ability to handle non-standard situations during service.
Results and Winners
The competition utilized an anonymous judging system to ensure maximum objectivity. After three days of intense competition among 87 participants from nine regions of Ukraine, the winners in the "Waiter" category are:
1. Sviatoslav Bilyi (289 points) — Gold for flawless technique and professional communication.
2. Daniil Kornilov (273 points) — Silver for creative approach and quick decision-making.
3. Andriana Dutka (265 points) — Bronze for refined style and in-depth knowledge of service standards.
Congratulations to the winners! Your success is a signal to the entire industry that the future of Ukrainian service is in talented hands.
Acknowledgments to the Organizers
We would like to express our gratitude to the organizers of "Lviv Skills 2026," particularly the Head of the Vocational Education Department of the Lviv City Council, Bohdan Ivanus and Olga Bogonis for creating a platform for professional dialogue. Such initiatives are critical for the development of vocational education and for raising the prestige of careers within the hospitality sector.
We at the Ukrainian School of Hospitality are proud to have been part of this process. We believe that, through our joint efforts, we will make service in Ukraine truly world-class.
Training the professionals who create lasting impressions!
