Leilani Kalinisei is living the dream.
The demi-chef of Grand Pacific Hotel is 25 years old, married, and is in a career she dreamt of since she was a child.
“My parents wanted me to join the Police force, or something serious, but I believed in myself, and pursued my own ambitions,” she said.
Having started her career as a chef and learning the trade from her Swiss superiors, Mrs Kalinisei has her life mapped out ahead of her.
“I plan to go abroad to study more so that I can start my own business,” she said.
She lives to invent something new every day, through her pastry chef.
“I love baking,” Mrs Kalinisei said.
“The imagination has endless perimetres when it comes to creating something new, every day.”
What Is The One Place In Fiji You Would Take Visitors To, And Why?
My village of Nacewa, in Cicia, Lau.
The lifestyle is organic – they plant everything they want to eat.
Subsistence farming is popular there.
To get there is a 45-minute plane ride, or a day long journey by boat.
What Is Your Favourite Secret Backyard Spot, And Why?
The beach back home in Naceva.
It’s private, peaceful, and you can even collect seafood from the reef.
It’s the one place you can be alone to truly enjoy the moment.
What Is Your Favourite Place For A Pie Or Coffee?
For coffee, I go to Moments.
For something sweet, Mana Coffee at Selbourne Street is great.
Although I must argue that the treats at the Grand Pacific Hotel is better, because I believe in my products.
Clik here to view.
Moments Coffee: Source: Moments FaceBook Page
What Is The One Destination On Your Bucket List And Why?
Taveuni.
The waterfalls are alluring.
I’ve got to see it.
Clik here to view.
Tavoro Falls, Taveuni.
Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj