Raymond Palmez - Sous Chef
Raymond Palmez, a Filipino Sous Chef, has dedicated nearly thirty years of his life to the culinary arts. His journey is a beautiful blend of passion, resilience, and family values. Growing up in a bakery, his early experiences inspired a lifelong love of cooking. Currently, he works as a Sous Chef at Rio Tinto Iron Ore’s Nammuldi Village, where he is able to pursue his passion for food.
The new horizons and opportunities
"My journey began in the Philippines when my father introduced me to the world of baking at the age of 13. That initial spark of interest in food evolved into a passion that drives me every day. Whether I’m cooking seafood, smoked meats, or BBQ, I always put my heart into my dishes. Every meal I prepare is not just about food; it’s about connecting with people, sharing joy, and creating memories. Seeing others enjoy what I’ve crafted is truly the most rewarding part of my role as a Sous Chef,” he recalls.
While his culinary aspirations initially took shape within the warm confines of his family bakery, Raymond's journey extended far beyond those early days. He emphasises the profound influence his family has had on his career: "My culinary journey was heavily influenced by my family. I had no idea what FIFO work was, nor did I plan to work abroad. My three daughters encouraged me to explore opportunities overseas." This important decision to pursue FIFO (Fly-In, Fly-Out) work ultimately led to new horizons and opportunities he had never imagined.
"The transition to FIFO life was both exciting and overwhelming. I stepped into a vibrant environment filled with new learning experiences. While it was daunting at first, the welcoming community made it easier to adapt. This job is not just about cooking; it's about building relationships and adapting to a fast-paced world that constantly evolves. Each new experience teaches me something valuable, enriching my journey both professionally and personally."
Cooking up success
In 2023, Raymond embarked on a new chapter in his culinary career. He expressed, "I can say that it was by God’s grace, my experience, and luck that I was able to start this new journey in my culinary career. I am fortunate that Sodexo made it possible for me to realise my family’s dream of immigrating to Australia." His gratitude towards Sodexo's support extends beyond his professional endeavours to encompass his family’s immigration journey, highlighting the deep connection he maintains with his loved ones.
"Every day as a Sous Chef, I embrace the challenge of creating traditional dishes that require my full attention and dedication. For me, cooking is not just a task; it's a form of expression and connection. The joy I find in engaging with my team and our residents while sharing meals and experiences creates a sense of community that I deeply value. This collaborative spirit, where we learn from one another, is what makes my role so fulfilling,” he shared.
I believe in the power of kindness in leadership. When I step into my role, I strive to be more than just a boss; I aspire to be a mentor, a guide, and sometimes even a father figure to my team. I understand that looking after their well-being is essential for creating an atmosphere where everyone feels supported and valued. In turn, this kindness fosters loyalty and a strong sense of camaraderie, which is vital for any successful team.
Planning with Purpose
"As a father for 24 years, I have learned the importance of planning ahead and being adaptable. In both my career and personal life, I have realised that things don’t always go as planned. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t navigate through challenges together. In the FIFO industry, planning is crucial -not only for myself but also for my team, whom I consider family. This perspective allows me to foster a nurturing work environment where kindness is paramount.” Raymond said.
From Uncertainty to Hope
“Reflecting on how Sodexo and FIFO have transformed my life fills me with gratitude. After facing uncertainty during the pandemic in the Philippines, this opportunity has provided financial stability and renewed hope for the future. It has empowered my children to pursue their career paths, and the support with visa processing has been invaluable. This job has changed our lives for the better,” he shared.
“During the pandemic, the job market for chefs in the Philippines came to a halt, leaving many culinary professionals, including myself, in financial strain. The kitchen, once a vibrant space of creativity, felt silent and empty for months.”
Raymond Palmez's journey as a Sous Chef illustrates the power of passion and family bonds. His dedication to cooking highlights the importance of connections formed through shared meals and experiences. Despite the challenges of FIFO work, he prioritises family time and nurtures relationships within his team. Raymond's story inspires others to embrace their unique paths, reminding us that cooking is about love, community, and the lasting memories we create together.
