In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Carla Garcia Mata, the Executive Sous Chef at Jean Georges Restaurant, embarked on her path to success in the culinary world. Join us as Carla shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets her journey apart, how she navigated challenges, and her aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Carla’s relentless pursuit of excellence in the restaurant industry.
Carla’s Journey into the Culinary World
Growing up, Carla Garcia Mata found joy in experiencing different home-cooked meals whenever she visited her friends’ houses. Some of her fondest childhood memories involve being in the kitchen with her grandmothers, assisting them as they cooked. This early exposure to diverse flavors and cooking techniques sparked her passion for the culinary arts.
Carla was born and raised in Mexico, and seven years ago, she moved to New York City to further her culinary career. Before coming to the U.S., she worked in Abu Dhabi, expanding her knowledge and expertise in international cuisines. When she decided to attend culinary school, she knew that the best education would come from stepping outside of her comfort zone. She moved across the country, away from her family, which opened her eyes to the vast opportunities the world had to offer. While it was a challenging transition, it reinforced the idea that home would always be there whenever she needed it.
Overcoming Challenges in the Culinary Industry
One of the biggest challenges Carla faced was not having a family background in the culinary industry. Without a clear path to follow, she and her family navigated the journey together, relying on support and encouragement. Culinary school helped expand her horizons and shift her perspective, pushing her to be more open and absorb as much knowledge as possible. Every opportunity became a chance to grow, and she learned the importance of continuously evolving in her craft.
Representing the U.S. on the International Stage
Earlier this year, Carla had the honor of representing the U.S. at the 57th Prix Arsnova Finale in France. After winning the semifinal competition in the U.S. with her signature duck dish, she traveled to Paris to compete in the final against chefs from eight other countries. She was the only woman in the competition and ranked fourth place overall, an achievement that speaks to her dedication, skill, and perseverance in the industry. The experience reinforced her belief in pushing boundaries and seizing opportunities to grow on a global scale.
The Significance of International Women’s Day
To Carla, International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate how far women have come while acknowledging that there is still progress to be made. She believes it is crucial for women to follow their own dreams, not those imposed by others. It is normal to have doubts and change direction, but the focus should always be on personal fulfillment. Society, relationships, and even family can sometimes influence decisions, but Carla emphasizes the importance of listening to oneself and steadily moving forward on a chosen path.
Building a More Inclusive and Equitable Future for Women
Carla believes that fostering inclusivity and equity starts with respecting women’s decisions and offering support rather than judgment. Creating a safe space where women feel encouraged to express their emotions and seek help when needed is crucial. She also highlights that this awareness should extend to men, as they, too, have emotions to navigate. A future built on mutual respect and understanding will lead to a more inclusive society.
The Evolution of Women’s Roles in Leadership and Innovation
By 2030, Carla envisions more women stepping into leadership roles across various industries. In the restaurant industry specifically, she anticipates a rise in female chefs leading kitchens, earning awards, and revolutionizing the field. As more women gain recognition, the industry will continue to evolve, fostering a better working environment for future generations.
Mentoring and Supporting Women in the Culinary Industry
Carla takes an active role in mentoring women by encouraging them to question the path they are on. She understands that every career has its ups and downs, but remaining true to oneself makes the journey worthwhile. She also reminds aspiring chefs that personal growth does not have to be rushed—what matters is staying loyal to one’s beliefs and steadily carving out a unique path to success.
Turning Failure into a Learning Experience
After completing culinary school, Carla took a job in the city where she had studied, considering it her second home. However, she quickly realized that she wasn’t meant to settle there. Driven by a desire for more, she seized the first opportunity to work abroad. Over the years, she kept moving, searching for a place to call home, only to discover that her passion for learning about food was not tied to a single location. What once felt like uncertainty turned out to be a defining aspect of her career. Though being far from family and friends is a daily sacrifice, she has learned to prioritize quality time over quantity whenever she reunites with them.
Navigating Gender-Based Challenges in the Kitchen
When Carla started working in professional kitchens, most of her colleagues were men. Instead of facing hostility, she encountered well-meaning male coworkers who tried to make things easier for her. However, she soon realized that she had to prove her capability if she wanted to grow. Learning to assert herself and decline unnecessary assistance was crucial in establishing her credibility. At the same time, she also learned when to ask for help, understanding that strength lies in balance. While it was not her responsibility to educate others, it was essential to demonstrate that she was just as competent as her peers, regardless of gender.
Lessons in Leadership
One of the most valuable leadership lessons Carla has learned is the importance of asking for help. Early in her career, she believed that showing vulnerability would be perceived as a weakness. However, she eventually realized that embracing vulnerability makes a leader more relatable and human. The right team will appreciate authenticity and be more motivated to collaborate effectively.
Key Changes for Women by 2030
Carla hopes to see three major changes for women by 2030: equal pay and opportunities, greater access to education and healthcare, and a universal respect for women’s choices—whether in career, reproductive rights, or personal relationships.
Prioritizing Self-Care and Well-Being
For Carla, self-care is non-negotiable. She ensures that she takes time to disconnect from work and engage in activities she enjoys, even if it’s just relaxing at home with a good TV show. Spending quality time with family is another priority, and she makes a conscious effort to visit them whenever possible. Additionally, when life becomes overwhelming, she allows herself to slow down and focus only on the most pressing responsibilities.
A Success Blueprint for Young Women
Carla’s blueprint for success consists of three key principles: following one’s own dreams instead of external expectations, staying true to personal beliefs while remaining adaptable, and focusing on individual progress. Setting personal goals and celebrating small milestones along the way is crucial to long-term success.
Women Supporting Women in Leadership and Entrepreneurship
Carla strongly believes that women can support each other by fostering a culture of trust and motivation. Creating a safe space for sharing experiences, celebrating successes, and encouraging vulnerability will strengthen women in leadership. By offering guidance, sharing lessons from failures, and helping each other find their voices, women can collectively rise to new heights in leadership and entrepreneurship.
A Legacy of Strength and Empowerment
As we conclude this inspiring conversation with Carla Garcia Mata, it’s evident that her journey is about more than just professional success—it’s about resilience, courage, and paving the way for future generations of women in the culinary industry. Carla’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her commitment to empowering others serve as a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere.
On this Women’s Day, let Carla’s story remind us that every challenge we overcome strengthens us, and every dream we pursue has the power to inspire those who follow. Her message is clear: Stay true to yourself, embrace your journey, and never be afraid to take bold steps toward your goals. With passion, perseverance, and a supportive community, the future for women is limitless.
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