About Us
Chef Mai
Hi! I’m Chef Mai. From an early age, my love for sweets took root in the world of baking. What began with simple cookies and cake box mixes evolved into a profound passion for crafting delectable treats from scratch. Even in my youth, I had a burning ambition to turn this love for culinary arts into a lifelong career. Despite my desire to attend culinary school after high school, circumstances led me down a different path, because it wasn't God's plan at the time.
During my college years, I pursued a major in IT, a field that offered financial stability but failed to satiate my culinary cravings. Nevertheless, my passion persisted, and through word of mouth, I found myself catering events for friends.
After dedicating 12 years to the IT industry without feeling fulfilled, I knew a change was necessary to unlock my full potential. I embraced my true calling and enrolled in culinary school, savoring every moment and graduating magna cum laude. The doors to a world of culinary opportunities swung open, and since then, I've honed my skills in hotels, restaurants, and with catering companies.
Currently, I proudly hold the title of Executive Chef and Founder of Say Grace Children’s Culinary Academy. This virtual culinary school is dedicated to children aged 11-14, where we foster and nourish their inner Chefs. Say Grace Children’s Culinary Academy is not just a school; We equip children with culinary skills that help them to become skilled and confident members of society.
Statistically, families who eat dinner together have better emotional and physical health as it promotes healthy eating habits and stronger connection.
Say Grace Academy
I remember as a child my family ate meals at the dinner table. I loved that time because we had a strong connection. As I grew older I wanted to learn to cook. I needed someone to teach me, so I knew culinary school was in my future.
I began my culinary career with catering, then dinner parties, but teaching children was dear to me. I mentor youth and volunteer with Children’s ministries. I wanted to merge my love for teaching, children, family, and cooking, therefore Say Grace Academy was born. I say it is always important to Say Grace (pray) and thank God for your blessings, that is why we Say Grace during class.
Say Grace Academy is a children’s culinary school for ages 11-14. I teach aspiring young Chefs to hone their skills in the kitchen through cooking classes. It is an online curriculum that includes individual classes, series, and cooking camps. I guide and nurture their love for baking and cooking meals while connecting families around the dinner table.
Do you want your child to develop their talents in the kitchen? If yes, register for my next class.
Studies show that children who eat meals with their family have better self-esteem, academic performance, and nutrition.
Mission
Say Grace Children’s Culinary Academy’s mission is to make the world better one family at a time. We strive to equip children with culinary skills that help them to become skilled and confident members of society.
Vision
At Say Grace Children's Culinary Academy, we create more than just delicious dishes. We enrich children’s culinary know-how and inspire families to build strong connections, empowering children to show up in the world authentically.
Values
INTEGRITY
We do the right thing, even when no one is watching.
FAMILY
Shapes who we are.
LIFE SKILLS
Helps us become productive citizens in society.
SELF ESTEEM
Helps us show up as our authentic self.
PRAYER
Drawing closer closer to God and giving thanks for our blessings.
