Chef Sujatha Madhavan has worked her way up as an exceptional chef in a largely male-dominated industry and has transformed into an amazing educator at the leading hospitality and culinary institute, V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE), which is one of Goa’s top culinary schools.
We asked her about her experience and career as a woman in the hospitality sector in honor of International Women’s Day celebrated in March each year.
Chef Sujatha, when did you realize you wanted to be a chef?
I was always exposed to the world of hospitality from a young age as my family owned a restaurant in Goa. Later while completing my education in commerce I realized hospitality is my forte and not a banking job.
How has the transition into the field of education been for you?
While working as a mentor for interns at my previous employment, I realised that teaching is something I like. This helped me make a transition into being an educator. The skills I learned like patience, hard work and having a positive mindset made the transition a bit easier for me. I’ve taught at Kerala, Gujarat and Navi Mumbai before moving to Goa.
Which woman inspires you the most?
Since childhood I have always looked up to Rani Laxmi Bai. The vivid scene of her battling it out with her baby is etched in my memory. She was not only a good mother but an exceptional queen as well and I still look up to her when faced with any difficulty.
Chef Sujatha, what according to you is ‘women empowerment’?
Women empowerment is all about being independent and standing up for yourself. The most important aspect is to be there for other women. Selfless support and atomic changes in attitude will definitely bring about changes in the society.
In your 17 years of teaching experience what would you say are the main challenges women face in the hospitality industry? Do you see any changes from then to now?
There are some unspoken norms that must be followed in order to gain a foothold in the kitchen and prove your worth. Each day is a test of your strength not only physical but mental as well. The scenario has changed drastically. Men are now more considerate; they want women to feel comfortable. Acceptance of women is also a change I have noticed in the hospitality sector. There’s a change at all levels with seniors and juniors being accommodating to new trainees and your efforts are definitely recognized.
On International Women’s Day, what advice would you give to a young female thinking about their career? What skills and traits do you wish to instill in your students at VMS particularly the female students?
All students should have a positive and a strong mindset. Above all, female students should put themselves first. I would like to recommend that women not be frightened of working in the hospitality industry as there are a lot of opportunities.
Taking advantage of internships given by the college will definitely help one to get clarity. Being observant and motivated to learn should also enable you to achieve your potential.
Tell us a little about the institute you are presently with.
The VMSIIHE campus is serene and surrounded by nature. We are located in the beautiful and picturesque village of Raia. The campus is lively, brimming with students along with excellent coworkers. It never fails to uplift me. There’s always something to do at the campus. We have recently introduced a new program, ‘B.Sc Culinary Arts’ which lets students explore a variety of cuisines with a strong focus on managerial and entrepreneurial skills. Additionally we offer B.Sc. International Hospitality Management and M.Sc. International Hospitality Management.
