Sandra or Chef Sandy is a Filipino chef ,Originally raised in Malolos, Bulacan, Philippines.

Malolos, located in the province of Bulacan in the Philippines, is a city rich in history and culture. Growing up in this vibrant environment means being surrounded by a blend of traditional values ​​and modern advancements. Known as the cradle of Philippine independence, Malolos exudes pride with historical landmarks like Barasoain Church and is a center for education and commerce. Life in Malolos combines urban amenities with a warm community spirit, making it a unique place to grow up.

About Sandra's Educational Background and Experience with Culinary and Hospitality 

Sandra began her educational journey at Tikay Elementary School, where she built a strong foundation for her academic development. After completing her elementary school education, she continued her studies and successfully graduated from Marcelo H. Del Pilar National High School. This solid educational background served as a key step in her personal and professional growth.

Degree in Food Technology at Bulacan State University

She earned her Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology, specializing in Food Technology (Major in Foods), from Bulacan State University at 2005.This university, located in Malolos, Bulacan, is known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and technical skills. During her studies, she gained valuable knowledge and practical experience in the food industry, providing her with a solid foundation for a successful career in Food Industry. 

Immediately after graduating from university, she started her career in the hospitality industry. She worked in various restaurants in Bulacan as a kitchen assistant and kitchen helper, gaining valuable experience. This role offered her the opportunity to build a strong foundation in kitchen skills and develop a deep understanding of the ins and outs of a professional kitchen. With her dedication and eagerness to learn, she is determined to further develop her passion for the hospitality industry.

With Gratitude To The Bulsu Symphonic Band and People Behind her Success 

She feels incredibly grateful to be part of the Bulsu Symphonic Band. Thanks to her membership, she not only had the opportunity to further develop her musical talents but also earned a valuable university scholarship. All of this was possible thanks to the exceptional people who set her on this path. Their support, guidance, and belief in her abilities made a world of difference, and for this, she remains eternally grateful.

Thanks to the support of her parents and the people who brought her into the band, she had the opportunity to discover and share her passion for music. At the same time, she also learned more about cooking, bringing together two of her greatest interests. This unique combination of creativity and dedication inspires her to continue growing both musically and culinary, and to share her talents with others.

 

With a deep-rooted passion for cooking, she has honed her skills by exploring diverse cuisines from diverse cultures and countries. From the refined flavors of French gastronomy to the spicy and delicious dishes of Asia, and from the hearty depth of Mediterranean cuisine to the unique combinations of Latin America, her repertoire is as versatile as it is inspiring. Every dish she creates tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a love of discovering new flavors. 

A New Chapter in her Life

She currently lives with her daughter and Greek husband in a beautiful Amsterdam, the Netherlands. This city is known for its historic canals, vibrant culture, and international atmosphere. Whether you enjoy a stroll through the Jordaan, spend an afternoon at the Rijksmuseum, or simply cycle leisurely along the Amstel River, Amsterdam always offers something special. It's a place where tradition and modernity seamlessly intertwine, and feel privileged to call it home.

 "It's a special time full of new experiences and beautiful moments as a family.Together we enjoy the little and big things in life, while finding a balance between our cultures and the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's an adventure I'm grateful for every day."

How Her Passion for Cooking Was Born: The Influence of Family and a Love for the Kitchen

At a young age of seven years old, she watched her grandparents prepare the most delicious dishes and rice cakes. Their attention to detail, love of traditional cooking, and use of authentic ingredients made a lasting impression on her. This early introduction to the art of cooking ignited her passion and inspired her to discover the magic of cooking for herself. What began as a curious glimpse into the kitchen blossomed into a lifelong dedication to flavor and craftsmanship.

Her passion for cooking didn't just happen; it's deeply rooted in her family and the moments they spent together in the kitchen. From a young age, she stood beside her father, mother and grandmothers, who lovingly prepared their family recipes and taught her how flavors and cooking can bring people together. She remembers the aroma of fresh herbs, the blending of ingredients, and the stories shared while cooking—all of which form the foundation of her love for cooking. These cherished memories, along with her family's warm influence, inspired her to embark on her own culinary journey. Today, she shares not only her creations but also her passion, and aims to inspire others to discover the magic of cooking in their own lives.

At young age, together with her mother, she brings flavor and tradition to life by selling smoked mackerel and salted duck eggs on the streets and neighborhood . These artisanal products, carefully prepared with love and dedication, reflect their passion for authentic flavors. 

Her father took her to various places to watch other people prepare amazing dishes. From bustling markets to atmospheric kitchens, these experiences opened her eyes to the endless possibilities of flavors and techniques. Each visit was an opportunity to learn, taste, and be inspired. Thus, her love of cooking grew, fueled by the unique stories and traditions of others. What began as curiosity has now become a deep passion that motivates her to create her own culinary masterpieces.

Both of her family members and some of her relatives regularly spend time in the kitchen, preparing a wide variety of dishes. It was this environment, brimming with culinary creativity, that inspired her to launch her own career. What began as a curiosity quickly blossomed into a deep passion for cooking. Thanks to their influence, she has transformed her love of food into a successful journey that she enjoys every day.

Keep Growing in the Culinary World

She continued her journey by delving deeper into the culinary arts and chose to pursue the Professional in Culinary program at IEK Praxis in Athens, Greece on 2021, with a Michelin 2 star Celebrity chef Aggelos Landos(chef instructor).With passion and dedication, she strives for perfection and continues to develop new skills and techniques, while expanding her creative vision in the kitchen. This step demonstrates her determination to take her culinary career to the next level.

Appreciated by Chefs and Colleagues

 

Chefs and colleagues who believe in her skills in the kitchen recognize her passion and dedication to culinary perfection. Her ability to combine flavors, perfect dishes, and deliver consistent quality makes her an indispensable force in the kitchen. She inspires not only with her creativity but also with her professionalism and teamwork. The trust of her colleagues and the appreciation of experienced chefs confirm her exceptional talents and her place in the culinary world.

 

In 2020, she worked in a plant-based restaurant  (Crudo Glyfada, Greece) , where her love for sustainable and conscious eating was further strengthened. This experience gave her the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of plant-based food and its creative possibilities. With a focus on quality and innovation, she learned how dishes can be not only delicious but also healthy and environmentally friendly. It was a year in which she was able to fully immerse herself in the world of plant-based culinary art.

Her Unwavering Journey in the Kitchen

Behind every step she took, there were always intimidating treatments, insults, and discrimination simply for being different from others, and a woman in the kitchen. However, despite the obstacles, she didn't let them stop her. She kept moving forward, learning, growing, and proving that talent knows no gender .Her perseverance and passion overcame the prejudices, and she transformed the challenges into fuel to achieve her passion: Cooking.

Mastery in Modern and Traditional Kitchens

Over the past 20 years, she has embarked on an impressive journey through the culinary world. During this time, she has fully mastered both modern and traditional cuisines. Her passion, dedication, and curiosity allow her to combine the authentic flavors of traditional dishes with the innovative techniques of modern cooking styles. This makes her not only a versatile chef but also a true ambassador of culinary art.

 

In 2021, she started her adventure as Chef de Partie at one of Amsterdam's hidden gems, The Uptown Meat Club.   There, she transformed her passion for cooking into refined dishes, honey her skills and unleashing her creativity. Her dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed, and she quickly rose to the role of Sous Chef. This step was a significant milestone in her culinary career and a confirmation of her continued pursuit of excellence in the kitchen.

Respect for Diversity in the Kitchen

Despite differences in religion and belief, she appreciates that everyone has unique talents and skills in the kitchen. Whether creating traditional dishes, experimenting with new flavors, or reviving age-old family recipes, every dish tells a story. This open attitude connects people and demonstrates that culinary creativity knows no bounds.

Keep Growing in the Kitchen

She continues to learn, despite the ups and downs in her personal life. With determination and perseverance, she has continued to develop herself in her true passion: cooking. Every lesson, every recipe, and every challenge brings her closer to mastery in the kitchen. Her journey proves that with dedication and love for what you do, nothing is impossible.

Chef Sandy says;

Why I love cooking?

I love cooking because it's so much more than just preparing food. It's an opportunity to be creative, discover new flavors, and bring people together. Cooking gives me the chance to pour my love and attention into a dish, and there's nothing more satisfying than seeing others enjoy something I've made. Whether it's trying a new recipe, experimenting with spices, or making a familiar family meal, cooking brings a sense of peace and joy to my daily life. For me, it's not just a necessity; it's a pure passion.

 

No Easy Way: The Path of Life

In all aspects of life, there is no turning point, no direct or easy path. This is a truth many of us only truly grasp when we encounter obstacles. Growth, success, and personal development require time, perseverance, and patience. While it can be tempting to look for quick fixes, it's the journey—with all its challenges and lessons—that makes us stronger. By remaining consistent and taking small steps, we ultimately achieve what we envision. Don't be discouraged by the length of the path, because every step forward brings you closer to your goal.

Fouten en Discipline: De Sleutel tot Groei

Fouten maken is een onvermijdelijk onderdeel van het leven, maar hoe je ermee omgaat, is wat het verschil maakt. Discipline speelt hierin een cruciale rol. Wanneer je fouten ziet als leermomenten in plaats van mislukkingen, ontwikkel je de kracht om jezelf te verbeteren en door te zetten. Discipline zorgt ervoor dat je niet opgeeft en dat je consistent werkt aan jezelf, zelfs wanneer dingen moeilijk of ongemakkelijk worden. Het is deze combinatie van fouten durven maken en de discipline om daarvan te leren, die leidt tot persoonlijke en professionele groei. Dus omarm je fouten, wees gedisciplineerd in je reactie, en blijf vooruitgaan.