Essays

Akem Cadogen
I would like to convey my thanks and express my gratitude to the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation for granting me a scholarship. Thus, giving me the opportunity to further my studies and help me on my quest to become an Executive Chef. I started as a Commis, moved to Demi-Chef de Partie, and am now at rank of Chef de Partie.

My course was entitled Soups, Stocks and Sauces. This course was enlightening and a refresher course to my existing knowledge. At the same time I gained new information as my specialty was Garde Manger, but now am certified Saucier. I chose this course because to become an Executive Chef I have to be well rounded in the kitchen and master all areas.

I met new friends and was able to share with them my Caribbean background and culture from the beatiful island of Barbados. The course was from 7am to 1.30 pm. I spent two hours in the classroom and then off to the kitchen to start my production based on the menu given. At the end of each class everything I did was critiqued by Chef Instructor, John Deshetler. This helped tremendously as he was able to tell me what was perfect, or needed improvement and the better, easier, and newer methods to incorporate. The importance was also noted of wastage as this helps to control your food cost tremendously. I greatly appreciated his advice.

Once this course was completed I saw myself in the middle of the equation just waiting for the equal sign. I have matured a great deal in the past seven years that I have been in the Hospitality industry and I am looking forward to many more rewarding years. I am eager to share my knowledge with colleagues and bring new trends to Barbados’ Hospitality industry. I will be eternally grateful and I know my success will not be possible without the Foundation giving back to professional like myself. Words will never be able to express my thanks and that of my friends, family and collegues.

The CHTAEF’s mission statement states “ To foster a world class force of Caribbean professionals in hospitality by providing development opportunity through scholarships, grants and career awareness.” I am living proof of this statement and I will be the world class force of Caribbean professionals, to be exact- a female Executive Chef in a male dominated field. This is all thanks to the scholarship award given by the Guardian Angels of the Hospitality Industry and Professionals. I am an asset to Hilton Barbados, my beloved island home and its Hospitality Industry, the Caribbean and the world. Thank you from the bottom on my culinary soul!


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