I was constantly rejected

HCSA Community Services (HCSA) is a charitable organisation with the Institution of Public Character (IPC) status and a member of the National Council of Social Service. As a family of dedicated staff, volunteer teams, corporate and community partners, we continue to serve some of the most vulnerable in society, to give them a future and a hope. Our beneficiaries include vulnerable individuals such as ex-offenders, single parents facing limited support, and teenage girls who have suffered the complex trauma of abuse.“Our attitude and mentality are what really counts. Age is not a barrier. If you really want to progress and improve, just do it and do your best.”

My long-standing passion for food and cooking started with a Home Economics class in secondary school. My first foray into the culinary world began when I started as a dishwasher. After a chance encounter with one of the chefs working at the same restaurant, I was hired as a commis cook, thus kickstarting my culinary journey.

However, I soon discovered that my lack of qualifications made it difficult for me to apply for more senior positions, and I was constantly rejected. At the suggestion of the restaurant I was working at, I recognised the need to upskill and decided to enrol in HCSA Academy’s WSQ Higher Certificate in Food Services (Culinary Arts) course.

The course at HCSA Academy helped build a strong foundation in culinary techniques, equipped me with safety as well as housekeeping knowledge. I enjoyed meeting like-minded fellow students and appreciated the trainers for their tireless guidance.

Following my graduation from the course, I am now a junior sous chef and working towards my goal of being a head chef. My dream is to one day open my own modest café where I can create my own fusion dishes.