My name is Agnes Esinam Aku Kpogoh, and I come from a family full of people who love food not just eating it, but creating it. I was born and raised in Tarkwa, Ghana, where my mom owns two restaurants. From a young age, I was always in the kitchen, helping her out or just watching and learning. Both of my grandmothers were amazing cooks too. I also have a cousin who is a nutritionist with her own health-focused restaurant, and an aunt who is a chef in Canada. She used to visit us and always brought something new for me to try. Even my older brother cooks really well. It’s safe to say food has always been a big part of my life. In 2023, I moved to the U.S. and continued working toward my dream of becoming a chef. I’m currently in high school, and I’ve taken Culinary Arts classes, earned my ServSafe Food Handler Certificate, and completed Level One of the Restaurant Management and Culinary Arts program. I’ll be completing Level Two and the ServSafe Manager Certificate in my senior year. I also work part-time at Bojangles, where I prepare food, help manage the kitchen, and get real-life experience in a fast-paced environment. Outside of the kitchen, I’m involved in Student Council and recently joined my school’s News and Media Club. What draws me to the culinary arts is the way food brings people together. I want to make people feel seen, loved, and comforted through the meals I prepare. I especially love baking — there’s something peaceful about starting with simple ingredients and creating something beautiful from scratch. I think it’s becoming rare to find people who bake from scratch with real care and creativity, and I want to keep that tradition alive in my future work. My long-term goal is to attend culinary school and eventually open my own restaurant or bakery. I want it to be more than just a place to eat — I want it to be a community space where people feel welcome. I also want to create opportunities for young people who want to learn how to cook but may not have access to culinary programs or mentorship. Back in Ghana, I didn’t always have access to fancy tools or equipment, but I had passion — and that’s what pushed me to keep going. I want to be the kind of chef who not only serves food but serves people in real ways. I believe that when you cook with heart, it shows. And when you use your skills to uplift others, that’s when it becomes something even greater. This scholarship would help me continue learning, growing, and one day giving back to my community just like so many in my family did for me

Growing up in a small town, my dream of exploring the world led me to become an international student. My diverse experiences have shaped my perspective and determination to pursue a degree. I have faced challenges such as homesickness, cultural differences, and pressure to excel academically in a foreign environment, but these have strengthened my character and motivated me to work harder. My family's unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation for me to pursue a degree. In today's digital age, pursuing a degree is crucial for several reasons. First, it provides a strong foundation of knowledge and skills essential for long-term success, equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. Second, it opens doors to diverse career opportunities, providing a safety net and greater job security. Third, it fosters personal growth and development, allowing students to explore their interests, discover passions, and develop a sense of purpose. Finally, a degree is a testament to perseverance and dedication, representing the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and determination.

"About Myself and My Interest in Culinary Arts" My name is Agnes Kpogoh, originally I am from Ghana in West Africa until I recently moved to the States. From a young age, I have always been enchanted by the magic of cooking. The transformation of simple, raw ingredients into delightful and memorable dishes has always intrigued me. My interest in the culinary arts was ignited by watching my family prepare traditional meals, and it blossomed as I started experimenting with recipes and techniques in my own kitchen. Cooking is not just a hobby for me; it's a passion that brings me immense joy and fulfillment. The culinary arts offer a unique blend of creativity, precision, and cultural expression. I am particularly drawn to this field because it allows me to explore diverse cuisines, experiment with flavors, and continuously learn and innovate. I believe that food has the power to bring people together, create lasting memories, and celebrate cultural diversity. A career in culinary arts will enable me to share my love for cooking with others and make a positive impact through the meals I create. ** Why culinary arts? My fascination with the culinary arts stems from its endless possibilities and the joy it brings to people. Cooking is an art form that combines creativity with technique, allowing me to express myself while also adhering to the principles of taste and presentation. The process of developing a dish, from conceptualization to execution, is both challenging and rewarding. It requires a deep understanding of ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods, which I find incredibly stimulating. Moreover, the culinary field is ever-evolving, with new trends and techniques constantly emerging. This dynamic nature keeps me motivated to stay updated and continuously improve my skills. I am particularly interested in the farm-to-table movement and the emphasis on sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients. By focusing on these aspects, I hope to contribute to a more sustainable food system and promote healthier eating habits. Giving Back to the Community I am committed to using my culinary skills to give back to the community in meaningful ways. One of my long-term goals is to establish a community kitchen that provides nutritious meals to those in need. This initiative would not only address food insecurity but also foster a sense of community and support. Additionally, I plan to offer cooking classes and workshops for young people, teaching them valuable culinary skills and encouraging healthy eating habits. By empowering the next generation with cooking knowledge, I hope to inspire them to make healthier food choices and appreciate the art of cooking. Furthermore, I aim to collaborate with local farmers and producers to promote sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. By supporting local agriculture, I can contribute to the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. These efforts will help create a more sustainable and resilient food system, benefiting both the community and the environment. In conclusion, my passion for the culinary arts drives my desire to pursue a career in this field. Through my work, I hope to bring joy to others, celebrate cultural diversity, and make a positive impact on my community. By giving back through initiatives like community kitchens, cooking classes, and support for local farmers, I aim to create a supportive environment where everyone can enjoy the benefits of good food and culinary education.