An international student’s recipe for success

FROM architecture student to hospitality, Sober Ramen chef and co-owner Bo Li has had an amazing journey since he first landed at The Gordon over five years ago.

As an international student completing his cookery and hospitality qualification, his passion for food and people has grown.

“I really enjoyed my time studying with The Gordon. I still have such a strong connection with them,” said Bo Li.

“Having the opportunity to work and co-own Sober Ramen has been a highlight.

“I have been so lucky to work in many venues during my time in Geelong, from Mr Unami, The Barking Bog, The Sphinx and now Sober Ramen.”

Bo Li was invited back to The Gordon this year to be a judge of the regional WorldSkills competition.

“This was an amazing experience to be a part of watching the students perform under pressure, and even more wonderful to now see them working in local venues across Torquay,” said Bo Li.

“Our small venue in Little Malop Street is a traditional Japanese dining, compact and busy best suited to two or three diners.

“It really is a memorable dining experience, but we wanted to be able to share this with more people.

“This is why we opened our Torquay restaurant in Bell Street to cater for larger groups and families.

“The support we have got from The Gordon teaching staff is amazing. Rowan Sapwell, my hospitality management teacher, pops in regularly to see how we are going.

“We have great young local staff who have stuck with us. It is also great to see six Gordon students working across the Sober Ramen Group.  We know they have been trained well.”

The Gordon has always had a name for training the best chefs, baristas, hospitality managers and pastry chefs.

Now with the recent $23 million redevelopment, The Gordon Culinary School boasts the best facilities in the state.

“Bo Li’s restaurant has great service, great food, and we are so proud to see our students work hard and enjoy success in a venture they love,” said Rowan Sapwell, diploma of hospitality teacher at The Gordon.

“Our international students bring so much vibrancy and energy to The Gordon, and we can’t wait to host our next group of students.

“It’s really exciting times for our region. The hospitality industry has bounced back quickly after a couple of really challenging years. There is so much scope for growth and new talent now, especially with the expansion of the culinary school at The Gordon and the specialist training.”

If you are interested in a career in the kitchen or front of house, The Gordon has an upcoming information session Tuesday, 13 December at 5 pm at the Geelong City Campus, or you can find out more on The Gordon website thegordon.edu.au.

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