From Factory Floors to Fine Dining: One Student’s Journey to Culinary Leadership
At 29, a young woman from Ta Kao is rewriting her story—one dish at a time. Once working long hours in a factory for little pay, she is now pursuing her dream of becoming a restaurant supervisor, thanks to her determination and the support of the Naomi Tami Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Passionate about cooking since the age of 17, she lacked the opportunity to pursue formal training—until a friend who was a scholarship student introduced her to the Naomi Tami Scholarship Fund. That connection changed everything.
Before joining The Academy of Culinary Arts Cambodia (ACAC) in November 2021, her days were spent working in a factory for 10 hours at a time. “I wanted something better,” she said. “I chose cooking to improve my life.”
But the journey wasn’t easy. Language was her biggest challenge, especially coming from a rural province. Applying to ACAC and the Naomi Scholarship required time off work and courage. “I improved my English by interacting with foreigners,” she shared. “That was a big step for me.”
Despite the hurdles, her first days as a student were full of wonder. “Wearing the uniform with the scarf and eating in a fine dining restaurant—it felt exciting and new,” she recalled.
At ACAC, she fell in love with the Hot Kitchen and the hands-on learning that brought both technique and tradition to life. “I loved learning about the history of food. And I loved creating my own new dish.”
Her motivation stems from her childhood, where she often helped cook in a local organization. Encouragement from her teachers further fueled her passion. Today, she’s continuing her education in restaurant and event management in Vietnam at the Imperial International Hotel School through the Naomi Tami Fund’s continuing education program. She dreams of managing a restaurant—and one day working abroad.
Her message to others facing hardship is clear: “If you want to change your life, this is the best way. Even without money, in two years you can have a job, maybe even go abroad, and help your family. I hope more students can have this opportunity.
About The Naomi Tami Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Naomi Tami Scholarship Memorial Fund was established by the Tami family to honor the memory of Naomi Laura Tami who passed away on May 7, 2013, at the early age of 23. In keeping with Naomi’s love of life and passion, the Naomi Tami Scholarship Memorial Fund provides the opportunity for students who are committed to excellence, love the culinary arts, and who would not otherwise have the opportunity due to financial constraints, to study tuition-paid at the Academy of Culinary Arts Cambodia.
How to give
Your financial gifts to the Naomi Tami Scholarship Memorial Fund enable Shift360 to expand scholarship opportunities for the Academy of Culinary Arts Cambodia and provide more students with financial constraints the chance for a brighter future.
JOIN US:
Naomi Tami Memorial Scholarship Fund: https://www.naomimemorialfund.com/
Shift 360 Foundation: https://shift360.ch/naomi-tami-scholarship/
Academy of Culinary Arts Cambodia (ACAC): https://acac.edu.kh/
