We recently had the chance to connect with Emerson Majano and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Emerson, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
yes, I have been experiencing moments that are full of joy due to the accomplishments I have been involved with. I have also feel very proud do to the successful times I have had in Telemundo which was one of my dreams for me to be in while in this career
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, my name is Emerson Majano. I’m a chef, food consultant, content creator, and food personality originally from Honduras, now based in Los Angeles, California. I currently work at Surfas Culinary District as a Chef Administrator while also as a chef consultant for culinary projects and brands. One of the things that makes my work interesting, fun, and unique is that I get to experience all sides of the culinary world—from operations and product sourcing to media, food styling, and content creation. I’ve grown tremendously through this journey, not just professionally but personally as well. Being featured on television, including appearances on Telemundo 52’s, Acceso Total Show , has taken my career to another level and allowed me to inspire others to keep pushing toward their dreams. My passion lies in creating food experiences that celebrate culture, creativity, and community. I focus on vibrant, family-friendly food and lifestyle content that’s accessible, seasonal, and rooted in Latin American traditions with a modern twist. My brand is unique because it comes from the heart—I don’t just cook; I share stories through food. Whether I’m in the kitchen, on set, or behind the scenes developing concepts, I strive to blend heritage with innovation. I’m currently developing a series concept called Cocina de Raíz, which explores the roots of Latin cuisine, reimagining traditional recipes while honoring their cultural significance. Every dish, every idea, and every project I work on is an opportunity to celebrate flavor, identity, and the power of storytelling through food.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
The people who taught me the most about work are my mom and my great-grandmother. My mom worked tirelessly in a maquila back in Honduras, spending long hours in demanding conditions to provide for us. Even after immigrating to the U.S., she never slowed down she continued working hard with the same strength, commitment, and dignity. She showed me that work is not just about effort, but about showing up with pride, resilience, and purpose no matter the circumstances. At the same time, my great-grandmother taught me the power of love, patience, and courage. She led by example through simple acts of care, quiet strength, and an unwavering belief in me. She always reminded me, with both words and actions, that I should never give up on my dreams, no matter how far they seemed or how hard the road might be. She taught me that even the softest hands can build the strongest foundation. Together, these two women shaped the way I see work, life, and purpose. Their sacrifices, values, and love are with me every time I step into a kitchen, speak to an audience, or create something new. They made me who I am and everything I do is a reflection of the lessons they gave me.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there was a time I almost gave up. I remember being completely drained mentally, physically, and emotionally. I was stuck in a routine that felt never ending working long hours, studying late into the night, then doing it all over again. It felt like no matter how much I sacrificed, nothing was changing. I was exhausted, and deep down, I started to feel like none of it mattered that maybe I wasn’t good enough, or that all my effort was just a waste of time. I questioned everything: my path, my purpose, my worth. But somehow, in the middle of all that frustration, something quiet inside me refused to quit. I thought about my mom working in a maquila back in Honduras, about my great-grandmother’s courage and belief in me. I realized I hadn’t come this far, just to stop now. I gave myself permission to rest, to cry, and to feel discouraged but I didn’t let that moment define me. And looking back now, that breaking point became a turning point. It reminded me that growth doesn’t always feel like progress in the moment, but it’s happening. And today, I stand stronger and more grounded because of that season when I almost threw in the towel but I didn’t,
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes the public version of me is 100% who I really am. I’m naturally a very hyper, energetic person, always smiling, always bringing positive energy wherever I go. What you see on camera or in public is the same Emerson you’d see behind the scenes: joyful, passionate, and full of life. I don’t believe in putting on a show I believe in showing up as my true self, whether I’m cooking, filming, or just having a conversation. For me, that happiness is real. It comes from gratitude, from loving what I do, and from always remembering where I come from.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I’m gone, I hope people remember me as someone who was truly happy and positive—a person who brought light and energy to every room. I want to be known as someone who worked hard, never gave up, and always pushed through challenges with determination and passion. More than anything, I hope my story motivates others to keep chasing their dreams, no matter how tough the journey. I want to leave behind a legacy of encouragement and joy, showing that with a good heart and relentless effort, anything is possible.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @chefemersonmajano
