A native of Malaysia, Joanne grew up eating local street fare and her mother’s version of exotic Malaysian food. At age 12, her family immigrated to Toronto, Canada. When it was time to choose a major in college, Joanne followed a more conventional path and studied mathematics and statistics. Upon graduating college she spent a year working at an insurance company followed by a few years as a business analyst for a beverage distribution company. When the company decided to down-size, in a serendipitous event, Joanne met a career counselor that changed her life path. After much research and deliberation she decided to move to New York City to attend culinary school. After graduation Joanne could not get enough of New York and stayed, working at a restaurant. When the restaurant hours and 3am drinks began to take their toll, Joanne embarked on her quest to be a personal chef, working for a few private clients. Over the years she has built a steady client base and currently cooks for families that she considers family.
Joanne lives in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn. She works as a personal chef during the week and at Slope Cellars wine store on Sundays.
