Local Vermont Chef Kicks Off Fundraiser to Showcase Authentic Flavors on Exciting New Online Food Show!

After nearly 15 years in the food business, Chef Deven Bora is stepping into a new adventure. The owner of Early Bird Catering in Colchester has been invited to film a pilot episode for Eat This TV, an online culinary network. Exciting as it is, there’s a challenge: Bora has launched a GoFundMe to cover expenses tied to this project.

Bora’s journey began at 16 when he started working fast food. What started as a job for cash turned into a passion as he dived into different roles—at restaurants like Applebee’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, and later in catering.

“I had to choose between finishing college or pursuing what I loved,” Bora shared. He chose the latter, enrolling in the Community Kitchen Academy. This nine-week course taught him essential culinary skills, including food safety and waste reduction. The academy also combats food insecurity by using surplus produce to prepare meals for local shelters.

According to a 2022 study from the University of Vermont, 2 in 5 Vermonters faced food insecurity. Bora’s work aims to make a difference. “It’s nice to have this opportunity and give back,” he said.

In March 2022, Bora started his catering business, focusing first on small events and quickly expanding to include meals for local army bases, which allowed him to operate fully from his Colchester location.

Early Bird Catering offers a mix of cuisines—Italian, Greek, American, and Mexican—while spotlighting seasonal ingredients from local farms. “This fall, we’re featuring a special seasonal menu,” he explained. This menu showcases the best local offerings from August to October.

The call from Eat This TV took Bora by surprise. He initially thought it was a scam but got excited upon learning more. Though the network will cover production costs, he needs to fund aspects like kitchen rental, ingredient costs, and travel. The GoFundMe was his way to gather support, and he is hopeful about the pilot’s success.

If the pilot goes well, there’s a chance for a series. Bora is already brainstorming recipes that highlight Vermont’s unique ingredients. “It’s a chance to honor where I’m from,” he said.

Bora has until early July to secure the funding he needs. Meanwhile, he’s busy preparing for a culinary opportunity that could elevate his business and shine a light on local flavors.

Additional Insights

Chef Bora’s journey mirrors a wider trend in the culinary world. Many chefs are focusing on farm-to-table concepts and sustainability, addressing growing concerns about food waste and local food systems. According to a 2023 report by the National Restaurant Association, 86% of consumers want restaurants to prioritize local ingredients. This emphasizes the importance of connecting food with local communities and economies, which Bora embodies through his business.

In social media trends, there has been a surge of support for local chefs, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Many people are turning to local dining options, leading to a revival of community-centric eateries. As Bora navigates this new chapter, he showcases not just his culinary skills but also a commitment to his community and local economy.

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