KOTA KINABALU: It was all smiles for Wezreil Noel as he enjoyed his day as the “Chef for a Day.”
Dressed in a custom white chef uniform and hat, complemented by a black apron, the 17-year-old proudly presented his culinary creations. This passionate young man from Sandakan has long aspired to be a chef while battling thalassemia.
Although his declining health has made this dream seem distant, Wezreil’s aspirations were brought to life thanks to the collaborative efforts of Hyatt Regency Kinabalu and the Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital.
Under the guidance of Dr. Ng Su Fang and the pediatric team at Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital, Wezreil took on the role of chef at Tanjung Ria Kitchen. He was warmly welcomed by the hotel’s head chef, Adrian, and Director of Operations, Tommy Franssila, who encouraged him to learn and create in the kitchen.
During his hands-on experience, Wezreil mastered a variety of dishes, including the hotel’s signature Cheese Naan, as well as pastries, pizzas, noodles, and satays. Each moment spent in the kitchen not only honed his cooking skills but also deepened his appreciation for the art of creating delicious meals, showcasing his unwavering passion for cooking.
Dr. Ng expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the initiative, stating, “The pediatric team at Sabah Women and Children's Hospital would like to thank the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu team, particularly Chef Adrian, for fulfilling Wezreil's wish and helping him find purpose in life despite the challenges of his chronic illness. We also appreciate your efforts in motivating him to pursue his dream again and ensuring that his family enjoys a memorable stay at the hotel.”
Chef Adrian reflected on the experience, describing it as a privilege to host Wezreil and his family. “We wish him all the best in his journey to becoming a chef and encourage him to always pursue his passion, no matter the obstacles. His enthusiasm for cooking is truly inspiring and we hope it sparks inspiration in others as well,” he said.
With the support of the community and the unforgettable experience at the hotel, Wezreil's dream has been reignited, proving that with determination and encouragement, no aspiration is too distant to reach.
