Ryan
Ryan is 14 years old and aspires to be a chef. Ryan has chosen to be part of ‘Michelin Star Mega’s’, which consists of a number of mentors from restaurants across London which have all been awarded Michelin stars. Ryan meets with a number of mentors in order to get a feel for the different options within the industry, and they are helping to guide, advise and create opportunities for him during his transition from secondary school into further education and employment.
On a recent visit to Mega Mentor Shane Osborn, Head Chef at Pied a Terre, Ryan had the opportunity to experience all aspects of a restaurant during service, including front of house and the busy kitchen! Ryan was also able to taste some of the produce that Shane uses in the restaurant, and on his next visit will be cooking some of his favourite foods with Shane. Ryan has received advice about which catering colleges will provide him with the best education, and has been given the opportunity to have some work experience in the kitchen at Pied a Terre! Mentors are also given the opportunity to share their financial wealth directly with children they mentor, and through the Mega Mint program Shane hopes to help Ryan to achieve his dreams.
Ryan is currently working through a number of SMART targets that he has set for himself with his mentors, that will improve his cookery skills and help him plan for his future career. Mentors are also helping Ryan to understand the personal attributes needed to become successful, and provide a combination of practical and emotional/psychological support.
Ryan says that visiting Shane was ‘Good, because he helped me to improve and learn how I can become a chef. He encouraged me and gave me a direct route into the industry’.