Aafiyah Degani

First hospitality job:

Hospitality Trainee

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Age you started working in hospitality:

19

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Your inspiration to begin working in hospitality:

The Cakes! - They looked like a piece of art! The skill for baking and pastry felt like a combination of precise science techniques and unique artistic innovation, and this inspired me to be part of this diverse industry. 

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My hospitality mentor:

At first, my inspiration was watching my grandmother invent the most delicious food in her kitchen! Later I watched Masterchef Austrailia, and was wow-ed by all the innovation that one could do with food! This inspired me to become a pastry chef, and now part of the hospitality industry!

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What are your favourite aspects of your job?

The people are the best part, working with different individuals from across the globe is exciting! There is always something new to learn in this industry, and lastly, the scope of being creative never ends!

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What has inspired you to continue your career path in hospitality?

The industry has a lot to offer, and one can explore various career paths. I have ventured into many departments (kitchen, service, sales, marketing, events etc.) and each one is unique. I see new paths in each sector I work in, so I am always interested to see where the road takes me!

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Advice for students interested in a career in hospitality:

It might seem difficult at first, but if you have a passion for this industry, work hard and you will be able to really achieve big things! Stay confident and ask for help if you need it, because hospitality people are always there to lean on!