In 2006, Edisa Layug and her entire family made a bold decision to leave their home in the Philippines and start anew in Australia. At 43 years old, Edisa embraced an opportunity by joining Sodexo, a decision that would profoundly shape her future. 

Today, Edisa is a qualified chef at Rocklea Palms in Paraburdoo – a Rio Tinto village operated by Sodexo, where she contributes to serving 13 million meals annually in the Pilbara region. 

Edisa's journey began in Tom Price, where she and her husband worked hard to build a new life. In 2016, after pondering with her husband, Edisa decided to pursue a career at Sodexo, prompting the family to relocate to Perth. 

Where It All Started 

In 2017, Edisa joined Sodexo as a permanent utility worker. She confidently stated, "I began as a utility worker, handling tasks such as washing pots, cleaning dining and kitchen areas, emptying bins, and loading and unloading from cold wells. After three years of dedicated effort, I was promoted to dining room supervisor."

Her journey from a utility worker to a qualified chef reflects her determination and perseverance. Edisa is known for her positivity, willingness to help others, and her ability to create a sense of community within the team.

“I was given a fantastic opportunity to be a dining room supervisor. I travelled to different sites for three months, sharing my knowledge and expertise. This opportunity allowed me to support the catering team in villages such as Punurunha, Jundunmunnah, Brockman 2, Brockman 4, West Pilbara, Nammuldi, Jerriwah, West Angelas and Wintamarra.”

After visiting nine different sites, she confidently reflects, "I genuinely enjoyed helping people, whether by assisting the team with food presentation, contributing to the food packs, or taking care of cleaning duties. Witnessing the joy and happiness it brought the team members and myself was incredibly fulfilling. The staff's request for me to stay made me feel valued on several occasions—a truly gratifying experience. I've forged numerous friendships and connections through this opportunity," she shared.

It's Only Up From Here

"After gaining valuable experience and knowledge, I seized another opportunity in 2021 to undertake a 3-year chef apprenticeship, an opportunity I simply couldn't pass up," she said excitedly. "Without hesitation, I immediately said ‘yes’ and set out on my journey to becoming a chef," she said.

Edisa successfully completed the Certificate III Commercial Cookery Trade Apprenticeship through Sodexo's renowned 'Art of Food' Apprenticeship program, graduating one year ahead of schedule.

"I studied at Joondalup TAFE for six months. Despite facing some language barriers, I found that having completed some of the courses beforehand made it easier to navigate the apprenticeship. The mentors at TAFE and the leaders on-site provided me with invaluable support."

With hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment, Edisa demonstrated that remarkable achievements are within reach, no matter the circumstances. In 2023, Edisa successfully attained the status of a fully qualified chef.

Sharing this part of the story, Edisa expressed her deep gratitude and shed tears of joy. "I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity and support Sodexo has provided me. Thanks to this, I was able to purchase my first home, providing a stable and secure place for my family. We will no longer have to endure the uncertainty of moving from rental to rental. I am truly grateful for the positive transformation that has occurred in my life."

Reflections as a Chef

Reflecting on her journey, Edisa feels fortunate to have been on this amazing path and continues to bring her passion and dedication to her work every day.

"The diversity and culture of the team are amazing. Having some Filipino people on site really makes me feel at ease, and we all support each other."

As a chef, Edisa finds joy in the diversity and culture of her team and takes immense pleasure in creating pastries, which she considers her true passion. 

“Even after spending two straight weeks cooking, I still find it incredibly satisfying to cook when I'm home on R&R. I've come to realise that when you are truly passionate about something, you don't mind doing it all the time.”

When asked about her favourite aspect of her role, she confidently stated, "I love being in the kitchen and being hands-on, fully present, and savouring the satisfaction of seeing the final result on display."

Edisa takes pride in her work and is dedicated to ensuring not only the quality of the food but also the safety of those she works with.

"Safety is always my top priority! I'm completely committed to ensuring that I return home safely because my loved ones are eagerly awaiting my arrival – that’s my ‘Why’. I extend my safety mindset to my home life, where I work hard to promote safety within my family and maintain a secure environment,” she said.

"I don't just do my job because I enjoy it; I do it also because it brings joy to others. There's a great saying, 'Food brings people together on many different levels. It nourishes the soul and body; it's truly love'. Food is not only about nourishment itself; it's about bringing people together. It gets the residents to open up and have a chat about the presentation of the dishes or the flavoursome meals prepared; it puts a smile on their faces. It is gratifying."

Wear It With Pride

I consider myself fortunate to be on this amazing journey. I fearlessly seize opportunities and embrace them wholeheartedly."

"I take pride in my accomplishments. My husband and children also take pride in my achievements."

"As a confident chef, I am thankful for the positive feedback. The clients' satisfaction and numerous compliments speak volumes. Above all, I am dedicated to consistently enhancing my skills and the dishes I create and prepare."

Reflecting on her seven years with Sodexo, Edisa proudly declares, "I am no longer just Edisa; I am Chef Edisa." Even my kids call me 'chef', which brings me so much joy. It's not just a label, it’s an identity, and I know I've worked so hard to get to where I am today."

"I absolutely love wearing my Sodexo chef uniform, feeling confident and happy to represent the brand," she added with a smile.

Edisa Layug's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and pursuing one's dreams. Her journey from the Philippines to Perth serves as an inspiration to all those striving to create a better future for themselves and their loved ones. With hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment, Edisa demonstrated that remarkable achievements are within reach, no matter the circumstances.