Nurturing Future Talent

Miracle Umunna, an apprentice chef at Sodexo Live! who works at the American Express Stadium – home to Premier League football team Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club - has always been fascinated by the science and creativity behind food. Growing up, she found inspiration in cooking shows and dreamt of making her own mark in the culinary world. Through her apprenticeship, Miracle has developed valuable skills, faced challenges head-on, and is now carving out a rewarding path in the industry. 

Here’s Miracle, in her own words, sharing her story: 

Growing up, my sister and I loved watching shows like The Great British Bake Off, MasterChef, Hell’s Kitchen, and Matilda and the Ramsay Bunch. I was captivated by the preparation process and fascinated by the science behind food. That’s where my passion for cooking truly began. 

When it came time to choose a career path, I knew I wanted something hands-on. An apprenticeship was the perfect fit for me because it allows me to learn on the job. I get to experience real-life action in the kitchen and tackle challenges as they happen. No other type of training would have given me the same opportunities and experiences I’ve been fortunate to have during this apprenticeship. 

A typical day for me at the American Express Stadium starts with setting up my section and preparing for the day ahead. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned over the past two years is to show interest in anything that catches my eye. There is always something new to learn and staying curious has been key to my growth.

The most challenging skill I’ve had to develop is my communication skills. Learning how to adapt my communication style to different people has been a revelation. I’ve taken the time to understand how others communicate, which has taught me patience and improved my ability to work effectively with a team. 

I don’t have a specific favourite dish to make, but I love anything that pushes me out of my comfort zone and helps me learn a new skill. For me, the joy of cooking lies in the variety and the constant opportunities for growth. 

Social media has also influenced my approach to cooking. I’ve followed accounts like Notorious Foodie for the past two years and find their content captivating. Platforms like Instagram have shown me the importance of presentation not just of the food but of the restaurant itself. A dish’s presentation can make or break a customer’s appetite, and the same goes for the ambiance of a dining space. 

Balancing work and study has been challenging, but I’ve found a system that works for me. I plan my weeks in advance, setting aside dedicated study days. This helps me stay on top of my coursework while managing my responsibilities in the kitchen.

This apprenticeship has been a transformative experience. I’ve met some incredible people who have made a significant impact on the culinary world. Their stories inspire me to keep pushing myself and to pave the way for future generations of chefs. 

The best piece of advice I’ve received is to take my time. Perfection doesn’t happen overnight, and mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. My apprenticeship has taught me that growth takes time, and patience is key. 

If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone considering a culinary apprenticeship, it would be this: Don’t rush to be perfect. Embrace the journey, learn from your mistakes, and stay open to growth. This experience has been life-changing for me, and I’m excited to see where it will take me next.