In this episode we talk to Chef Simone Byron about the importance of real mentorship, networking, communication and hustle in pursuing and monetizing your culinary passion.
From working with Disney at the ESPN Zone in Atlanta at 17 to a Chef Manager with Compass Group and transitioning into education in Gwinnett County Public Schools, Chef Byron has been a passionate leader in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality Industry. During her 10 year experience with Gwinnett County, Chef Byron achieved 7 state titles and 2 national titles in competitive cooking, started a student-run catering company and bistro, founded a community garden and developed a corporate food service internship program with Compass Group and Thompson Hospitality. Furthermore, Chef Byron was named Teacher of the Year for Georgia by the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation, and then went on to win the National Educator of Excellence Award for 2018. Currently, Chef Simone has begun an exciting new position as Executive Director with HEFG (Hospitality Education Foundation of Georgia). Chef Byron was also inducted into the prestigious women’s organization Les Dames Escoffier in 2019. Chef Byron continues to leverage her passion for the hospitality industry and education to provide a foundation for young adults to learn and thrive.
