With a career spanning over three decades, Chef Leslie D’Souza has established himself as a legendary figure in the world of baking and confectionery. He has dedicated 20 years to perfecting his craft and mentoring the next generation of chefs every single day.
Currently, Chef Leslie is the Resort Head Baker at Madinat Jumeirah, however, becoming a baker wasn’t his first choice. Initially, Chef Leslie was a sportsman before he impressed the world with his baking skills. Nevertheless, Chef Leslie’s journey from a sportsman to a master baker is both inspiring and enlightening. Initially, Chef Leslie was a sportsman before he impressed the world with his baking skills. .In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his career, the challenges he has faced, and his advice for aspiring chefs.
How did you begin your culinary journey?
My journey started back in the 80s in India. After completing my 10+2 education, I was more into sports. It was my parents who encouraged me to consider baking as a career. My mother was a significant inspiration for me. I chose to pursue catering and got into the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition in Bombay, now Mumbai, which was a prestigious college at that time. This laid the foundation for my career. After my exams, I got a job with the Taj group. That was the beginning of my professional journey in the culinary world.
What were some challenges you faced early in your career?
There were quite a few. Working against the clock, day and nights at the Intercontinental Hotel Group was difficult. Balancing work and personal life in such a demanding industry was challenging. You come to work when it’s dark. You go home when it’s dark again and you get to sleep during the day. It’s not an easy life, and many people leave the profession midway. However, those who stay, put their heart and soul into their work carve out a niche for themselves.
What advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
It takes the same amount of time and energy to create a good product as it does to make a bad one. If you focus on consistent quality with passion, there’s no stopping you. Passion, dedication, and attention to detail are crucial qualities for a successful chef. Never underestimate anybody and always respect your colleagues. This creates a positive work environment and fosters professional growth.
How important is mentorship in the culinary industry?
Mentorship is incredibly important. Senior figures in the industry play a crucial role in guiding and inspiring young chefs. To be a role model, you need to be authentic and trustworthy. In today’s digital age, where information is abundant, it’s essential to make learning engaging and accessible. Genuine mentorship rooted in mutual respect and support is what drives professional growth.
What role does teamwork play in a kitchen?
Teamwork is extremely important. The team you work with is like your family. Addressing conflicts and building a supportive environment is crucial. Personal accountability and mutual respect within the team are vital. Before pointing out someone else’s mistakes, ensure you keep your own space in order. When different strengths come together, they become a force.
What sets you apart as a chef and a leader?
My dedication to continuous learning, experimentation, and innovation. I strive to push the boundaries of excellence in my field. My passion and relentless pursuit of perfection inspire others to strive for greatness and embrace new possibilities. I believe in creating high-quality products while minimizing waste and leveraging modern technology alongside traditional methods.
How do you view the role of technology in the culinary industry?
As a senior industry chef, I believe in changing with the times. If you want to stay relevant in the industry, you have to be ready to learn something new each day. Technology can amplify you, but it cannot do the work for you. It’s important to stay updated and leverage technology as a tool for growth and innovation, but you must not lose focus on the professional fundamentals. Technology can help amplify culinary trends and facilitate networking, but the core of our work still relies on skill and passion.
”To be a role model, you need to be authentic and trustworthy. In today’s digital age, where information is abundant, it’s essential to make learning engaging and accessible. Genuine mentorship rooted in mutual respect and support is what drives professional growth.”
Leslie D’Souza
Chef Leslie Dsouza’s story is proof that your passion and dedication change the course of your life. His journey from a sportsman to a celebrated baker in Dubai’s culinary scene is a source of inspiration for many. Through his commitment to his craft and his team, Chef Leslie continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of baking and confectionery.
