I am truly honored and humbled to be featured in Aegis Living’s Employee Spotlight in their latest newsletter. This recognition, coming from a community as committed to compassion, care, and excellence as Aegis Living, is a moment I will cherish. It’s a testament not only to the work I do but also to the incredible team and residents I have the privilege of working with every day.

About Aegis Living
Aegis Living is a leader in senior living and memory care, known for providing an enriching, vibrant environment where residents feel respected and connected. It’s more than just a workplace; it’s a place where relationships are built, lives are celebrated, and care is delivered with heartfelt dedication. Being part of Aegis Living Corte Madera has been an incredibly rewarding experience—one that allows me to not just craft meals but to create memorable moments that touch people’s lives in a meaningful way.

My Journey: A Culinary and Cultural Transformation
Before joining Aegis Living in October 2023, I spent over a decade working as a chef and restaurant manager in Berkeley. I co-owned and managed well-known Himalayan and Indian restaurants in the city, and I was proud to publish my cookbook, Taste of the Himalayas. The cookbook reflects my deep love for the diverse and rich culinary traditions of the Himalayas and the Indian subcontinent. I’ve also had the privilege of teaching cooking classes and sharing my culinary passion with others.

One of my proudest achievements came when I was shortlisted for the Favorite Chef competition in 2021. This global online competition invited chefs from around the world to compete for the title of the world’s Favorite Chef and a grand prize of $50,000. It was an exciting opportunity to showcase my culinary skills on a global stage.

However, despite these milestones, I felt called to a role that offered a deeper, more personal connection with the people I serve. That is when I made the decision to join Aegis Living Corte Madera. Here, I found a place where I could apply my love for food and hospitality in a way that made a real difference in the lives of others. I now have the honor of being the Dining Services Manager, where every meal prepared is an opportunity to provide comfort, care, and connection to our residents.

Rooted in Culture and Care
Raised in both Nepal and India, my upbringing has shaped the way I approach food, relationships, and life in general. My educational journey in India allowed me to become fluent in several languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, and English. This multilingual ability has proven invaluable in connecting with our diverse residents here at Aegis, allowing me to communicate more effectively and offer a personalized touch in every interaction.

In addition to my culinary career, I spent eight years as a teacher in Nepal. The experience taught me the importance of patience, empathy, and respect—values that I carry with me every day as I work with our residents. Many of them remind me of my own parents back home, and it brings me immense joy to offer them the same care and love that I would offer my own family. This role at Aegis Living feels deeply personal, and it brings me immense fulfillment to create a home-like environment through the dining experience.

Gratitude for Aegis Living Corte Madera
While I’ve been fortunate to get spotlight on my career, none of it would be possible without the incredible team and families I work with at Aegis Living Corte Madera. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my colleagues for their unwavering support and dedication. Special thanks to Culinary Service Director Jim Drake and General Manager Rabha Sebastian, who have always believed in my approach and supported my vision from day one. Their guidance and trust in my working style have been a source of constant encouragement, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a remarkable leadership team.

Together, we’ve built a community that is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. I also want to express my deep appreciation for the families of our residents. Your trust and confidence in our team have made me feel like part of your extended family. The relationships we’ve formed and the memories we’ve created together are what make this work so rewarding.

A Personal and Professional Journey
This recognition from Aegis Living is not just a reflection of my work as the Dining Services Manager but also of my commitment to making a difference. I see this role as a continuation of my passion for serving others, whether through food, teaching, or community involvement. It’s not just about creating meals; it’s about creating experiences, offering comfort, and building connections.

As I continue on this journey, I am excited to bring even more of my culinary expertise, cultural background, and passion for service to Aegis Living. The future is full of possibilities, and I look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.

Looking Forward
Every day at Aegis Living Corte Madera is an opportunity to make a difference. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue my journey here, surrounded by a team that values compassion, care, and excellence. Together, we’ll continue creating a space where residents feel like family and where each meal is more than just food—it’s an opportunity to share joy, warmth, and love.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I look forward to creating many more memories and meaningful moments with all of you.