Meet Nicole Pama

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Pama.

Hi Nicole, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started my career the day I decided to go to culinary school. All my life, I thought I was going to be a nurse because it’s what some of my family told me I should do. But I wasn’t happy and one day I signed up for it and I never looked back.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not an easy road. People in the industry joke that you don’t become a chef for the money but for the passion. Being in the culinary industry is an everlasting roller coaster. No two days are ever the same. I’ve been part of a staff where one day the owner just decides to shut down leaving me SOL. I’ve seen plates thrown and shattered over one dish that went wrong. I’ve probably seen almost all scenarios of those kitchen shows you see on to. But I think the biggest struggle for me was trying to convince my father that becoming a chef was not a mistaken path for me. It was constant battle of overcoming doubt and insecurities. But I just have to keep seeing it through and that’s what keeps me going.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve worked in all sorts of food establishments but what I’m most proud of is my small cookie businesses Mama Pama. I was doing personal orders and working through a market. My Filipino dessert inspired cookies take traditional flavors and I turn them into cookies!

Any big plans?
One day I hope to have my own bakery where I get to build regular customer relationships and just watch my desserts create excitement in people.

Pricing:

• $35 dozen

Contact Info:

• Website: Mamapama.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/sweetsbymamapama?igshid=1rk605e0dzvst