David came to Australia in 2013 to attend Adelaide University where he studied engineering. He had always wanted to be a chef, but his parents didn’t approve. After a year at university, he knew he needed to pursue his dream.
Inspired by the following quote from Marco Pierre White, British chef and restaurateur, “If you have a dream, then you have a duty and a responsibility to yourself to make it come true” David started to look at his best options for entering the culinary world. He chose Le Cordon Bleu Australia after googling ‘the best cooking school in Australia’.
When he started at Le Cordon Bleu in 2015, David’s mum made him sign a contract promising to complete his culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu. Having now graduated, David has fulfilled his promise to his parents. Today, David’s parents are thrilled with his choice to study at Le Cordon Bleu and proud of his achievements.
Happy that he can work in a career he loves, David gives the following advice to young people unsure about what path to choose: “If you know what you want, just go for it. If you are passionate about it, you will always succeed.”
Adelaide’s open, uncrowded spaces appeal to David who advises fellow international students that “Adelaide is a good place to study, there are less distractions than in bigger cities.” Judo has been a regular practice since he was 19, as it helps him focus and maintain his energy during long hospitality shifts. Cooking is another favourite pastime, and preparing meals for his housemates. “Food is made to share. When I see others eating my food I feel happy.”
David thoroughly enjoyed his experience at Le Cordon Bleu Adelaide, especially the practical lessons. The theory came to life for him in the workplace, in particular, human resources, workflow management and dietary requirements. He feels very grateful that Le Cordon Bleu lecturers took the time to explain everything clearly. “They made sure I understood everything I was learning.”
His work placement (Work Integrated Learning) was at Crowne Hotel in Melbourne as a cook in the Kitchen Workshop Buffet restaurant. It was a busy environment managing a continuous workflow, preparing and topping up the buffet.
“My Le Cordon Bleu work placement was an opportunity to gain hands-on skills and knowledge, and to learn how to deal with pressure and time management.”
He currently works at Andre's Cucina & Polenta Bar where he is thriving. A full time role is on the cards. He embraces the challenge of multi-tasking under pressure and prides himself on learning something new every day.
David’s dream is to work for Noma, acclaimed two-Michelin star restaurant in Denmark. Head chef, René Redzep won the ‘Best Restaurant in the World’ four years consecutively. Redzep’s food is inspirational and according to David, “so gorgeous and delicate.” MasterChef and Chef’s Table also inspire, he loves watching the world’s best chefs introduce new techniques.
In the short-term David plans to continue working, to develop his culinary skills and save money for travel. He wants to explore the world’s cuisine, especially in Europe and Asia, and get his black belt in Judo. His future plans involve further management training at Le Cordon Bleu, and running his own restaurant. His advice to young people is: “Be more confident, if you have a dream make it come true. When you meet difficulties, don’t give up... turn it around!” With his positive attitude and Le Cordon Bleu qualification, David is on his way to a great culinary adventure.
CRICOS: 02380M/ RTO: 4959