Behind the Apron: My Journey as SC4K’s Future Chef Winner

Guest author Lydia Brown-Sowah is a junior at Richmond Heights High School.

If you had asked me a year ago how it would feel to interview five-time James Beard nominee Chef Jeremy Umansky at Party on South Waterloo, I probably would’ve looked at you like you were crazy and asked how something like that could ever happen. Now, surprisingly, I can actually answer that question. Honestly, the fact that I got to go up on that stage and interviewed Chef Jeremy still feels mind-blowing.

When I first found out I was chosen to interview him, my first thought was, I did it. I made it! I had somehow managed to land this amazing opportunity, and I’m so glad I did because I learned and experienced so many things I never would have known about if it wasn’t for Shoes and Clothes for Kids (SC4K). This was the first time SC4K had ever incorporated students in their annual event’s VIP Reception, and I’m so thankful they took a chance on me.

Before this, I didn’t know much about SC4K or what they stood for, but after being part of the Party on South Waterloo event, I can say with confidence that this is an organization people truly need. During my time with SC4K, I learned how they support teachers and students by making sure kids can walk into school with new shoes and book bags. At the event, I even got to pack bags with school supplies for students, and that moment really made me feel happy—knowing a kid out there would be receiving that bag.

Without SC4K, I never would have met Chef Jeremy, who is such a great person. He’s friendly, easy to talk to, and made the whole interview process fun with his positive energy. One of the best parts of this experience was getting to eat at his restaurant, Larder Delicatessen & Bakery. Not only was the food amazing, but the energy when you walk in is just divine. The décor is beautiful, and everyone there greets you with so much warmth. I had a great time and an even better meal. View the photos from this evening.

I’ll always be grateful to SC4K and Chef Jeremy for giving me the chance to share my voice and make a memory I’ll never forget. But honestly, none of this would have happened without my culinary teacher, Ms. Davey. Without her, I wouldn’t have even known about this opportunity. Her kind recommendation meant so much to me and gave me the confidence to try harder. She was there for me every step of the way, always encouraging me—even when I didn’t know I needed it—and I’ll always be grateful for her.

If there’s one big piece of advice I could give to other students or aspiring chefs, it would be to say yes to opportunities that come your way, even if they don’t seem to fit perfectly with your plans. You never know what might happen when you do.