Exploring global cuisines and traditional Kenyan recipes
PAMELLA WANJA
Culinary Arts Student | Future Chef
Nairobi
Summary
Passionate and motivated Culinary Arts student currently pursuing a Diploma in Food Production. Eager to gain hands-on experience in a professional kitchen, enhance practical skills, and contribute to a dynamic culinary team. Committed to learning, creativity, and excellence in food preparation and presentation.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
2026
2026
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Student Chef
Kiambu National Polytechnic
04.2024 - Current
- Participated in a group culinary showcase celebrating Kenyan heritage through food
- Prepared traditional dishes including mukimo, chapati, and tilapia stew
- Handled food display and presentation for guests, including school staff and external visitors
- Received commendation from the Hospitality Department for creativity and team collaboration
Volunteer
12.2023 - Current
- Prepared and served breakfast, lunch, and snacks for over 50 youth campers
- Worked closely with the camp chef to plan daily menus and manage ingredients
- Ensured hygienic food handling and storage practices throughout the 3-day event
Volunteer
Karatina & Nyeri
01.2023 - Current
- Assisted with special events and programs.
- Maintained clean, neat, and operational facilities to serve program needs.
- Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
- Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
Culinary Training
The Kiambu National Polytechnic
01.2023 - Current
- Participated in regular kitchen practicals as part of diploma coursework
- Assisted in daily food preparation under supervision, including baking, hot kitchen, and cold dishes
- Developed foundational skills in cooking methods, food presentation, and time management
Volunteer Catering Assistant
01.2023 - Current
- Volunteered with local caterers for small weddings, church gatherings, and family events
- Helped serve food during events and managed clean-up operations
- Plated and presented dishes under pressure, maintaining culinary standards and delivering visually appealing meals
Education
Diploma - Food Production – Culinary Arts
The Kiambu National Polytechnic
Skills
- Essential culinary techniques
- Proficient in culinary knife handling
- Efficient recipe execution
- Familiarity with food safety standards
Culinary Experience
- Culinary Training, The Kiambu National Polytechnic, 01/01/23, Present, Participated in regular kitchen practicals as part of diploma coursework, Assisted in daily food preparation under supervision, including baking, hot kitchen, and cold dishes, Developed foundational skills in cooking methods, food presentation, and time management
- Student Chef, Taste of Kenya Cultural Food Showcase, 04/01/24, Kiambu National Polytechnic, Participated in a group culinary showcase celebrating Kenyan heritage through food, Prepared traditional dishes including mukimo, chapati, and tilapia stew, Handled food display and presentation for guests, including school staff and external visitors, Received commendation from the Hospitality Department for creativity and team collaboration
- Volunteer Catering Assistant, Family Celebration Events, Karatina & Nyeri, 01/01/23, Present, Volunteered with local caterers for small weddings, church gatherings, and family events, Helped serve food during events and managed clean-up operations, Plated and presented dishes under pressure, maintaining culinary standards and delivering visually appealing meals
- Volunteer, Church Youth Camp Catering Team, 12/01/23, Kirinyaga County, Prepared and served breakfast, lunch, and snacks for over 50 youth campers, Worked closely with the camp chef to plan daily menus and manage ingredients, Ensured hygienic food handling and storage practices throughout the 3-day event
Culinary Skills
- Basic cooking and baking techniques
- Knife handling and food presentation
- Recipe execution and portion control
- Understanding of HACCP and food safety standards
Interests
Food styling and photography
Baking and cake decoration
Watching culinary shows and learning new techniques (eg, MasterChef)
Farm-to-table cooking and local ingredient sourcing
Timeline
Student Chef
Kiambu National Polytechnic
04.2024 - Current
Volunteer
12.2023 - Current
Volunteer
Karatina & Nyeri
01.2023 - Current
Culinary Training
The Kiambu National Polytechnic
01.2023 - Current
Volunteer Catering Assistant
01.2023 - Current
Diploma - Food Production – Culinary Arts
The Kiambu National Polytechnic
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