From passion to pathway: Kosta’s journey into cookery

For Kosta, the decision to pursue cookery at Chisholm wasn’t something he stumbled into, it was something he had always known. “Since I was a kid, I always had the idea that I wanted to open a restaurant one day,” he says. “Cooking felt like the way to get there.”

Like many Chisholm students, Kosta explored other career options first. He spent time working with his dad as a diesel mechanic but quickly realised it wasn’t the right fit. “I liked the work, but I couldn’t see myself doing it long term,” he explains. That moment of clarity led him back to what he truly enjoyed, cooking.

Kosta began his Commercial Cookery journey at Chisholm while still in high school through a School-Based Apprenticeship. This gave him the opportunity to gain real-world experience early, including his first job in a restaurant kitchen. From the start, he was immersed in the fast-paced, hands-on nature of the industry.

His passion for cooking comes from more than just the process; it’s about the impact it has on others. “There’s something really special about making something and seeing someone enjoy it,” he says. “Food is something everyone connects with. It can change your day.”

While studying, Kosta faced challenges that could have held him back, particularly around course fees. After learning about the Victorian TAFE Network Scholarship from a teacher, he decided to apply. When he received the news that he had been successful, it was a defining moment, not just for his education, but for his family as well. “It took a lot of pressure off,” he says. “It made a big difference for my family and helped me keep moving forward.”

During his studies, Kosta developed both practical and technical skills that continue to shape his career. While hands-on cooking was a highlight, he quickly realised the value of the theory behind it. “At the time, it can feel like you just want to be in the kitchen,” he says. “But when you’re actually cooking for hundreds of people, you realise how important that knowledge is.”

One of his most memorable experiences was a turning point in his confidence. After initially struggling in class, a teacher later recognised his persistence and growth. “He told me he didn’t think I was cut out for it at first but saw how hard I kept trying. That meant a lot,” Kosta says.

Since completing his studies, Kosta has been working in a catering role, preparing meals for large events, conferences and functions across Victoria. The fast pace and variety of the work have helped him build strong teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills, all essential in the hospitality industry.

Looking ahead, Kosta is keeping his options open. While cookery remains a long-term passion, he is currently exploring a new opportunity by beginning the process of joining the army. “I know I can always come back to cooking,” he says. “But I also want to experience different opportunities while I’m still young.”

His advice to future students is to stay open and back yourself, even if you’re still figuring things out. “You don’t have to have everything planned out straight away,” he says. “Just be willing to give things a go and see where it takes you. If you enjoy it, keep going, that’s how you figure out what’s right for you.”