Meet Kannika.
How Her Journey Began:
After graduating from a prestigious culinary arts school in Thailand, Kannika set out to gain first-hand experience in a real kitchen. She landed a job as a prep cook at a hotel in Bangkok, where she immediately began to refine her culinary skills and knowledge.
And while she loved every minute she spent cooking, Kannika couldn’t shake something she knew to be true about making a living in Thailand: The ability to speak English meant more financial security and a better chance at being successful. So, she told her parents she wanted to go to New York to continue her studies and improve her English.
Imagination Versus Reality:
Growing up, Kannika always dreamed of coming to New York. It always seemed so romantic in the movies, but when she first landed in JFK, it was nothing like she imagined. It was crowded, busy, and difficult to navigate with her limited knowledge of English.
Even so, Kannika never gave up. She went to school and met her challenges head on. In the beginning, her teachers could barely understand her grammar. She’s made huge strides though and has continued to study the culinary arts in the process.
Next Up, More Dreams:
Although she knows becoming a chef is hard work, Kannika doesn’t plan on giving up on her lifelong goal to open her own business (just like her parents, who have a business in Thailand). She’s already overcome so many obstacles, and she’s ready to take on whatever other challenges that come her way.
Best Advice for Anyone Who Needs Inspiration:
If you have a big dream, keep at it and one day that dream may possibly come true.