Her Story
About Oprah
I have been with CyBake since 2020, a bakery software company providing software for wholesale and retail bakeries. I also work with Young Chef Academy, a culinary school for young children, which I joined last year. My specialty is in baking and pastry arts within the food industry. I hold an associate degree in culinary arts and baking and pastry arts, and a bachelor's in food service management from Johnson & Rose University in Miami, graduating in 2007 and 2009 respectively. I am a member of Females in Foods since 2020 and write for Pastry Arts Magazine interviewing high-profile pastry chefs.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Oprah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute good fortune to having a strong support system, my faith in God or a higher power, persistence in not giving up even when it's hard, and courage to push through even when scared.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
A college professor advised the class to take time to craft and practice your craft. It's one thing to get the degree, it's another to continue working on your craft, practicing it, and making an effort to become better at it each day. Those words stuck with me especially when I want to give up.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself even in the midst of self-doubt, know that you are worthy of the space you are in. Have patience with yourself and with your craft because very few people become great overnight. You have to work hard to reach expertise.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is the labor force - hiring good people who respect and love the work, and retention. The underlying issue is that the industry has a reputation for instability, emotional and verbal abuse in kitchens, leading to mental health concerns. The opportunity is to treat employees with respect, flexibility, and mental health support like in other industries, which leads to better commitment and experiences for all.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In work: teamwork, collaboration, compassion, empathy, creativity, innovation, brainstorming. In personal life: peace, harmony, balance, passionate empathy.
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