If you were to tell 18-year-old Andrew that he would one day be working alongside one of his culinary inspirations and hero, “MasterChef: Professionals” winner Chef Gary McLean, he would laugh in your face.
Now, a little over a decade later, he still wouldn’t believe you, despite the fact that he has worked multiple events with Gary, for multiple VIPs, and all to high critical acclaim.
From the kitchen of his childhood home in Knightswood to the kitchen of his family home in Kilmarnock, Andrew’s passion and love for food had slowly been cultivated and honed for over 16 years. His professional career began just 2 years ago when he started working at CentreStage Arts Academy in East Ayrshire, which inspired him to take the plunge and apply to study Professional Cookery at City of Glasgow College. During his time at the college, Andrew gained an unprecedented amount of knowledge and experience working alongside, and learning from, legendary chefs such as Gary MacLean, as well as developing connections with high-end chefs Willie Pike, Rohan Wadke and many more though his networking with Buzzworks Holdings.
Growing from strength to strength, Andrew continues to develop his culinary skills in every possible way, understanding that despite his Congenital Myopathy and his powerchair can prove a challenge, he confidently defies the odds and obstacles that may frequent the life of the physically disabled.
These days, as a Frank Mullen Bespoke HIT Scholarship Award winner, Andrew is ceaselessly developing his own abilities and skill sets to carve out a name for himself, and simultaneously proving to all that when you have your sights set on a goal, nothing will stop you from your success.
Image: James Walker, LinkedIn or on Instagram @jameswalkerphotographer