So you wanted to be a Chef !!

Embarking on a career in hospitality wasn't just a job choice; it was a pivotal moment that moulded the very essence of who I am today. My journey into this crazy world began on a day etched in my memory: Thursday, May 31, 1990. I was a mere 16-year-old (well, 16 years and 8 hours old), stepping into a bustling kitchen for the very first time, filled with a mixture of nerves and excitement. That initial step into the realm of hospitality was more than just a first move into work; it opened the door to a life-changing adventure.

Reflecting on that first day, I recall the image of myself standing in the kitchen and this picture being taken.

(yes, that’s me 34 years ago), clad in a chef's apron, a look of youthful eagerness in my eyes. This picture, a snapshot in time, encapsulates the moment my life's trajectory was irrevocably altered. With its clattering pans, the aroma of simmering sauces, and the orchestrated chaos of service, the kitchen became my arena, classroom, and, most importantly, home.

Hospitality taught me lessons far beyond the culinary skills or the mechanics of service. It instilled values that have become the bedrock of my personal and professional ethos. The first, and perhaps most crucial, lesson was empathy. Working in hospitality, you're not just serving food or providing a service; you're creating experiences, and weaving memories for people from all walks of life. This required a deep understanding of and connection to others, a skill that has enriched my life beyond measure.

Another vital lesson was resilience. The kitchen is a demanding teacher, with high pressures, long hours, and the constant pursuit of perfection. Yet, in this crucible, I learned the true meaning of perseverance. Each service was a new challenge, a fresh opportunity to excel, and with every mistake, I learned to stand up, dust myself off, and try again with more determination.

Teamwork and leadership were also invaluable lessons learned on the job. A kitchen thrives on the seamless interaction of its team, each member playing a pivotal role in the symphony of service. This environment honed my ability to work collaboratively, respect the strengths of others, and lead with confidence and compassion.

Over the years, the hospitality industry has evolved, embracing technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. Yet, the essence of hospitality, the heart of creating warm, welcoming experiences, remains unchanged. It is this essence that has profoundly influenced who I am. Hospitality has not just been a career; it has been a journey of self-discovery, a path to understanding the value of connection, the beauty of diversity, and the power of a meal shared in good company.

As I look back on that first day, standing in the kitchen, a novice on the brink of an unknown journey, I am filled with gratitude. Hospitality has shaped my character, relationships, good and bad, and outlook on life. It has taught me that at the heart of all we do are the connections we make and the experiences we share. With all its challenges and rewards, this industry has been my greatest teacher, shaping me into the person I am today.

“I'm not going anywhere. I hope. It's been an adventure. We took some casualties over the years. Things got broken. Things got lost. But I wouldn't have missed it for the world.”

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