Firstly, I'd like to provide a brief introduction about myself. If anyone is willing to offer assistance, it's essential to genuinely understand who I am rather than merely feeling it's acceptable. Establishing a connection with the donor is significant to me, as it represents a beautiful and rare act.


Hello everyone,

My name is Gabriel, a 35-year-old culinary enthusiast from Verviers, Belgium. My story is that of a child who dreamed big, guided by the unconditional love of exceptional parents.

Growing up in a loving family, I remember moments of happiness shared despite financial challenges. My parents, generous souls, instilled in me values of hard work, determination, and love for life.

After spreading my wings, I found my calling in the culinary world, a realm where my passion transformed into a flourishing career. From apprentice to young aspiring chef, each step brought me closer to my ultimate dream: creating a European culinary school in Thailand.

In 2016, a painful turning point reminded me of life's fragility. The loss of my father was a catalyst, propelling me to seize every opportunity with resilience and determination.

As an accomplished chef, I decided to immerse myself in the richness of Thai cuisine in 2023. However, life, full of twists, presented an unexpected challenge. Laid off in December, I now face insurmountable financial difficulties.

The landlord refuses to pay the notice period, forcing me to live without a salary until September 2024. This situation triggered a cascade of challenges, even preventing me from accessing unemployment to meet essential needs.

Today, I share with you a dream that transcends my current difficulties. I wish to establish a culinary school in Thailand, a place where European culinary passion can thrive in an exotic environment. This school would be more than an educational institution—it would mirror my journey, perseverance, and determination to create something meaningful.

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How will this impact your education or career?

This endeavor will significantly enrich my professional journey by broadening my culinary horizons and providing an opportunity to teach authentic Belgian cuisine to an international audience. It represents a crucial step in my chef career, allowing me to share my passion while continuing to learn.

As a chef who has worked in various restaurants in Belgium, including the Boule Rouge in Verviers, I have accumulated rich experience. However, cooking is an ever-evolving art, and the idea of going to Thailand to master local cuisine while sharing Belgian cuisine excites me to the highest degree.

How will you make a difference in the community?

The Belgian culinary school in Thailand will create a unique platform where the richness of Belgian gastronomy is shared and celebrated. By teaching high-quality cooking techniques and fostering cultural exchange, we will contribute to strengthening bonds between local and international communities.

My commitment to the community goes beyond teaching cooking. Growing up in a family that values generosity and sharing, I want this school to become a place where students can not only learn to cook but also understand the importance of community.

Why are you passionate about this project?

My passion for this project stems from my love for Belgian cuisine, the desire to pass on this distinctive culinary heritage, and to create a space where creativity and authenticity are valued. Contributing to culinary education is a way for me to leave a positive and lasting impact.

My father, who was a worker at the Verviers commune, always taught me the importance of persevering in my dreams. He was my greatest support, and it is in his honor that I want to create something that goes beyond cooking, a tangible legacy.

Why did you choose this destination?

Thailand offers a unique combination of cultural diversity and openness to new experiences. By choosing this destination, I aim to create a culinary bridge between Belgium and Thailand, two rich and fascinating cultures.

My previous experience of traveling to Thailand showed me how cooking can be a universal language. It's an opportunity to learn and share in an exotic setting that will enrich not only my own life but also that of my students.
What makes this meaningful for you? This project holds deep meaning for me as it combines my passion for cooking, the desire to teach, and the willingness to contribute positively to the community. It's an opportunity to actualize a dream while leaving a lasting imprint in the world of gastronomy.

With the passing of my father in 2016, I became aware of the fleeting nature of life. This project, beyond cooking, represents a tribute to his teachings of perseverance and creating a meaningful legacy. I aspire for this school to become a symbol of success and unity.