Taryn Wa
(1-Year Combined Program, 2006)
Founder
Savoury Chef Catering
Vancouver
www.savourychef.com
Board member of Les Dames d’Escoffier
Advisory Board Consultant to Updating Northwest Culinary Program Objectives
Taryn’s story is about personal evolution by being true to oneself. She had no industry background when she decided to follow food. Her previous work was as head cheerleader for the BC Lions football club, which meant her work ethic and self-discipline was never in question. She was one of those diligent, put your head down, work hard and study hard students that often went under the radar – until the evidence started speaking for itself. Her practicum was in a busy small restaurant where she convinced herself she could handle the line. Catering was still not in her cards. She did have, however, an entrepreneurial spirit and learned the business of food and customer service as a private chef. That eventually led her to open, with a business partner, Savoury Chef, and she soon established herself as one of the city’s leading caterers (e.g., they are the official caterer of Cirque du Soleil when they’re in town). Taryn has spoken to our students on many occasions about her story. What is appealing – and approachable – is the simple, matter-of-fact way she describes each step: it’s not about her past achievements (and she has achieved quite a bit in a short period of time), but more about learning what one wants and finding solutions.