I first entered the welfare center when I was 4 years old.

Although I don’t have any memories of or keep in touch with my birth mother,

I was still able to mature into a person of sound body and mind

through the care of the director and the center mothers.

 

Growing up, I lacked patience and grit and found myself

often times giving up in the midst of many presented opportunities.

I had no interest in studying and lost my chance to apply to

my high school of choice due to low academic performance.

At that moment, I thought of all the younger children at the center.

I resolved to become better because they were looking up to me.

 

Through rigorous studying, I was able to become valedictorian and I tried

to live a life I was proud of as the president of the student body for all 3 years.

One day in my junior year, I happened to attend a lecture by a well-known chef.

It changed my life forever. I began to dream of becoming a chef

that could cater to people’s hearts through food.

 

I aspire to be a chef.

I’m so happy and grateful that YANA Ministry provided me

with this opportunity to study in a more global setting.

Because I have received so much unconditional love and support,

I hope to one-day give back to those that need it.