Back in the days where the term ‘sommelier’ seemed like a job title for aliens from Mars, I struggled to enter the profession due to the inability to identify a mentor who could provide guidance and perspective.
The road was long and winding, as I interviewed across venues and searched for the perfect institute to kickstart my career. After years of futile searching in my home country, the courageous soul in me decided to head west to France.
My return to Asia was victorious. Wine jobs became available despite my lack of knowledge. This pushed me to accelerate my personal learning and to become my own mentor.
Along the journey, I had the blessed opportunity to meet countless master sommeliers and wine personalities who were amazing servants of the trade. They imparted knowledge eagerly and had the most humble personalities. They always encouraged and their perseverance is addictive.This made me very proud to be a part of the wine community.
As my career continues to advance, my promise to myself is to share; To pass on the knowledge I have and to celebrate success with young and aspiring hospitality providers. I am grateful that I have a team who believes in me. I am grateful that I have the gift to inspire. May their futures be bright and their roads to success be made easy through meaningful mentorship.
