Dejel Quashie Success Story - Division of Education, Skills and Innovation

DIVISION OF EDUCATION, SKILLS AND INNOVATION

SUCCESS STORY

Dejel Quashie

Chef

Associate of Applied Science – Culinary Arts

Tobago Hospitality & Tourism Institute

What inspired you to pursue studies in Culinary Arts and what steps did you take to achieve your goal?

I remember Saturday mornings at my grandparents’ house as if it was yesterday. That kitchen was never quiet. My sisters, my many cousins and I would gather, each of us with a different bowl, some of us grating dry coconuts until our fingers bruised, others creaming butter, which had to be light and fluffy, until their arms were tired, and sometimes we simply stood and observed. My grandmother without question was one of the greatest cooks and bakers I have ever known. She made everything from coconut tarts, sugar cake, bread, cake, you name it she mastered it. Her food carried a depth of flavor and love that you tasted in every bite, which people would always say, she had a sweet-hand, and she truly did.

It was in that kitchen that I began to realise I had a unique palate. I could detect when a dish needed more spice, more balance or better seasoning. What confused me then, but recognize now was an early sign of my culinary balance instinct, an ability to analyze flavor, texture, visual and technique beyond just enjoying the meal.

Looking back, those Saturday mornings were not just family time, but the foundation of who I was becoming. What I once thought was simple curiosity was actually my calling, my passion for Culinary Arts

Another moment that truly inspired me, happened in my early twenties. My cousins and I would often spend weekends away from home, just enjoying each other’s company. But whenever I mentioned that I might not be going, they would immediately protest and ask, “So who cooking? Who makes breakfast for wee?”

At the time, we would laugh about it, but it meant more than I realized. They looked at me to take charge in the kitchen. Whether it was preparing a proper breakfast, seasoning meat for lunch, I was always the one they depended on. It was not something assigned to me, but something that happened naturally.

That was when I began to recognize that cooking was not just something I enjoyed, it was something others valued in me. Their confidence in my ability gave me confidence in myself. It showed me that my skills weren’t just a hobby, but were meaningful, appreciated and worth developing further.

With that realization, I decided to professionally pursue Culinary Arts and enrolled at the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (THTI). I committed myself to both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field. I practiced consistently, embraced constructive criticism and sought hands-on experience in the industry through internship to refine my skills. Taking these deliberate steps transformed my childhood passion into a professional path.

How did you plan financially to achieve your goal?

I had to take charge of my finances, one way or another. It wasn’t something that happened suddenly, rather it was a series of self-determined choices I made in order to keep up with my studies. I began to look closely at my spending, cutting things that once felt normal like social events and liming. They no longer became necessary, as every dollar had a purpose and I needed to be disciplined enough to stick to that plan.

There were days when it felt overwhelming, trying to balance everything at once. I took on extra work and looked for another job to support myself, even though I was already stretched thin. Managing school, work and my personal life required regular adjustment and I needed to be more deliberate about how I spent my time and money.

I was not aware of the Department of Advanced Training and Advisory Services (DATAS) program before and everything I did, was done on my own initiative. There was no external support to guide me, only my will to continue; which had a significant impact on me. It instilled in me discipline, sacrifice and responsibility as well as the ability to push forward and remain devoted to my goals in the face of uncertainty.

What challenges did you experience?

Balancing school and work with my personal responsibilities all at once were extremely challenging. My days were often filled with one task after another and it was difficult to find the time and energy to meet academic deadlines while maintaining a consistent level of performance. I literally turned my nights into days; at one point, the pressure became overwhelming that I became ill, which forced me to take a semester off.

Even though I was working two jobs at the time, it wasn’t enough to ease the financial strain. There were times when I seriously considered whether I would be able to continue my studies and that uncertainty weighed heavily on me. Looking back, it was a tough experience, which pushed me to become more disciplined and determined to persevere despite the setbacks.

What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges?

Even when things got tough, I stayed focused on my goals. I began to manage my time better, ensuring that I maintained a balance with school, work and personal commitments. Discipline became a must, and I held myself liable for remaining on track. I learnt, it was okay to ask for help instead of trying to do everything on my own. During those moments, I kept reminding myself why I started, which gave me the extra strength to keep going. Staying positive and focused was not always easy, but it helped me push through those difficult times.

DATAS truly made a meaningful difference in my journey. Before receiving that support.

Always worried about how I would pay for each semester, overthinking about almost everything and that stress followed me into my daily life. When the financial assistance from DATAS was granted, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. It provided me with more than just financial relief, it also gave me peace of mind. Finally free to concentrate on my studies and give my all without being distracted by financial concerns. It provided a renewed sense of confidence and motivation, knowing that I had support and that my goals were still achievable.

Describe a specific moment when you realized the impact of this support on your journey?

The moment that will always be with me was when I realized that I was able to continue my studies without interruption thanks to the financial assistance received from DATAS.

Before, I was constantly concerned about whether I would be able to complete each semester. It helped me realize that I wasn’t alone. There were people and programs who believed in me and were willing to invest in my future. That realization gave me a stronger sense of purpose and inspired me to work even harder, not just for myself, but to make the most of every opportunity that I was given.

What message would you share with others considering your career path?

Even when things are tough, stay committed to your goals and believe in yourself. There will be times when things may feel overwhelming, but it is important to keep focused and remember why you started. Take full advantage of every opportunity and assistance available to you, as they might have a significant impact along the journey. Your journey will not be easy, there will be challenges; but those moments will shape, strengthen and prepare you for what comes next. Remember that diamonds are formed under pressure and in the end all the sacrifices and hard work will be worthwhile.

How has this opportunity changed your outlook on the future, and what are your plans.

This opportunity has given me a new sense of hope and confidence in the future. It showed me that with the appropriate support, persistence and hard work, I can overcome challenging situations and accomplish the goals set. In the beginning I had some doubts, but today I am more certain in my decision.

Moving forward, I would like to have a reputable and productive career that not only allows me to grow and thrive as an individual, but allows me to give back by helping others who are experiencing similar issues. I want to be in a position where I can make a difference, just as I have received support. This experience has changed the way I see my future; it has motivated me to keep pushing forward with purpose and confidence.

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