Shirlene, a creative and dedicated pastry cook
Shirlene, as her colleagues affectionately call her, may initially come across as a shy person, but is actually an artist at heart.
Shirlene or Cheng, as her colleagues affectionately call her, may initially come across as a shy person, but is actually an artist at heart. Once she has her apron and chef’s hat on, she uses her magic spatula to make sweet, heart-warming creations. She has worked for 10 years at Dinarobin Beachcomber and embodies the values of dedication, creativity and passion.
Cheng hasn’t always known that she wanted to be a pastry chef. Starting to work as a kitchen trainee was a turning point in her career. She was captivated by the opportunities available in the pastry field and has since gradually worked her way up with the hope to become a pastry chef one day.
One of her signature desserts is ‘Panna Cotta with Island Flavours, Umami’, a coconut and chilli-based delight that reflects her resourcefulness as well as her identity.
In the kitchen of Dinarobin Beachcomber, she is not just a pastry chef; she is also a mentor. She looks after the new trainees and shares with them the skills and knowledge she has learned throughout the years. She recalls her early career with warm feelings and emphasises the importance of knowledge transmission. For her, each trainee is an addition to the Beachcomber family.
Shirlene is enthusiastic about the atmosphere and camaraderie within the team. She attributes much of her success to her Chefs, who taught her the tricks of the trade and helped her move her career forward.
"Cheng finds happiness in creating delicious desserts and training the next generation of pastry chefs."
Cheng is also known for her sense of humour and warm personality. She likes to share a laugh with her colleagues, which creates a positive and engaging working atmosphere. She speaks fondly of one Chef in particular, who is an excellent mentor for her and a constant source of inspiration and joy.
A perfect example of the “Feel the Happiness You Give” philosophy, Cheng finds happiness in creating delicious desserts and training the next generation of pastry chefs. With her ‘little ones’, as she affectionately calls them, she infuses joy, creativity and excellence into everything she does – or touches. She actually won a pastry competition recently with her team.
Since sharing this story, Cheng has been promoted to Chef de Partie.
Are you inspired by Cheng’s story? Reach out to Beachcomber if you want to be part of a team where creativity, passion and dedication are part of our daily life. Join a family that values every Artisan and turn your passion into a legacy of joy and excellence. Start your journey with us and feel the happiness you give.
