I'm Daniel Dominique Ugbinada from Cebu, Philippines. My close friends and family back home call me Dan, though the new-found friends I made here have started to call me Danni.
Before my studies here, I had just graduated from college, although despite being a new graduate, I was drifting from one job to another to try and expand my ventures of discovery as well as hoping to save up for the future. My mother encouraged me to look for opportunities beyond the Philippines. It was honestly a hard decision to come to terms with, having to leave my friends and my home, though what drives me to move forward is the knowledge that I can have better, broader opportunities once I finally stepped out of my comfort zone.
What course did you study, and at which TAFE campus?
I studied the SIT30821 Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at Bentley campus. I thought I wouldn’t do well in the course, however it has helped me realise my love, talent, and passion for cooking, and refining my skills. It also changed mindset from kitchen hand to thinking like a chef. I know I still have a long way to go but I believe the program and the opportunities it will give me will finally help me reach my dreams soon.
How have you found the facilities on your campus so far?
The facilities are designed to simulate an actual working environment itself. It allows us to learn at industry level and develop the skill sets and practice needed in a commercial, industrial and professional kitchen compared to the limited training simulations and small programs offered back home. TAFE provides resources, tools, and equipment used in real-world professional settings. Thanks to the lecturers' expertise and guidance, using the facilities felt more like real industry experience rather than just classroom learning.
What are your career goals?
I plan to apply for an apprenticeship hopefully in an establishment to further understand real-world business. After which I'll hopefully grow more and more from there and become a chef one day. This is mainly so I can gather the experience I need to finally build my dream café. I plan to explore opportunities in Australia, overseas, or back home, knowing that my experience and dedication will take me far. Wherever I go, I’m confident I’ll continue to grow and succeed.
How long have you been living in Perth?
I have stayed for about a year at this point, and so far, the one thing I love about Perth is that the place is very considerate with mental health and wellness. There are stunning sights, convenient parks, a strong sense of safety, and kind people you get to meet and befriend along the way.
Do you have any advice for students who are considering studying a course similar to yours at TAFE?
I say take the chance to leap out of that little box. Studying commercial cookery is very fun and challenging at the same time. If you think you have the talent or the love of cooking, but lack the experience and further growth and guidance, TAFE can lead you there. I highly recommend it. I could consider this a great choice because of how TAFE teaches you and lets you develop habits and practices that will be needed in the big working world.