Her Story
About Niesha
Niesha Mao serves as lead chef for the large catering company 24 Carrots while preparing to take a sous chef position at a culinary school in Yorba Linda, California. Since entering the field in 2017, she has built expertise in restaurant work and catering, including opening multiple establishments and teaching aspiring professionals. Mao graduated from Windale High School and completed culinary school after being sent by a high-end brewery employer where she advanced quickly through training. She attributes her success to her family and the supportive people around her who inspire her dedication, noting that showing up at her best motivates others despite early doubts from those around her.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Niesha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my family and the people around me who support and inspire me. Growing up, people doubted me, but I realized that when I show up at my best, I inspire others, which pushes me to keep going and stay dedicated. My family drives me, and surrounding myself with supportive non-family members who appreciate and learn from me keeps me motivated.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've ever received is to believe in yourself. Don't let someone tell you who you are, know who you are. To this day, I teach that to my own two daughters.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is people who are lazy. I am very humble and have been through so much starting from childhood with a teenage mom, yet I always get up and do what needs to be done with a smile. Laziness will never get you anywhere, and when you pass away you get to rest, so do your best while you're here and leave an impression.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My family is most important. I grew up in a broken family so I knew what I wanted when building my own. My motto is that a child with one great parent can imagine how great it could be with two, so I strive to be the best on every end even on my worst days. My family's happiness and well-being is why I moved to California.
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