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Kayleen Chae

@kayleenbakes

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18 months, 547 days, 13,128 hours, 2 state championships, 3rd and 4th national titles, 4 teammates, and 1 coach later…

I don’t even know where to start, but all I can say is thank you, ProStart. This program has significantly changed my life in ways I never expected. It burned my passion for culinary and hospitality, giving me a clearer sense of purpose and the drive to keep pursuing this industry. Along the way, I’ve grown into a stronger leader and found genuine comfort in working as part of a team. This experience is unlike any other…it’s something that you can’t fully understand unless you’ve lived it.

I also wouldn’t be here without the person who poured countless hours into supporting and guiding us. To the one who believed in us every step of the way and pushed us to grow as individuals. Your dedication built my confidence and pushed my passion even further. You helped me bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world of the restaurant industry, and for that, I’m forever grateful. Chef Costa, even though it was my last year, your impact on me will last far beyond it. The way you lead, the way you care, and the way you inspire is something I’ll carry with me in every kitchen, every opportunity, and every step forward.

Lastly, thank you to the @calrestfoundation for giving us a platform to express our passion for the industry. Your programs, mentorship, and constant support have shaped who we are today. You’ve connected us with mentors who continue to influence our journeys in this industry and help us succeed in whatever path we choose to take. And, of course, thank you to our sponsors, @habitburgerandgrill, @bjsrestaurants, @hilton, @chef_works, and @specialtyrestaurants for believing in us and supporting everything we do.

But this isn’t the end…it’s only the beginning. And with that, all I can say is thank you, ProStart.

@ocsa_cah by @kayleenbakes

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5 months ago

California State Champions & 3rd in the Nation at the 2025 National ProStart Competition for Restaurant Management

Words cannot express how grateful I am for this experience, but most importantly the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of sharing it with over the past nine months. It has been nothing but life-changing knowing how far we have grown as individuals and a team.

This team holds a special place in my heart because we’ve created a deep bond that feels like family. I’ve witnessed each other’s growth not only as professionals but also as individuals. From late-night rehearsals and countless snacks to unwavering support, we’ve pushed ourselves to become the best versions of ourselves, which is why we share such a special connection. I never could have imagined the incredible journey we’ve shared. Through our resilience and dedication, we’ve accomplished so much. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about cherishing the memories and the journey we have encountered together. From our daily mirror selfies to our team bonding moments at mtw and afters, I couldn’t have asked for a better team to laugh, cry, and eat an absurd amount of snacks with. Always and forever the terrific trail trio

To our incredible educators and mentors, thank you for giving us a chance. Without your constant guidance and support, we truly wouldn’t have made it this far without you. Your wisdom and belief in our team made this experience unforgettable. Thank you for the countless hours you’ve spent helping us prepare, pushing us to be our best selves, and celebrating every win alongside us. You’ve been more than just mentors; you’ve been role models and our biggest cheerleaders. We’re incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to share this journey with you.

And lastly huge thank you to @calrestaurants and all of our incredible sponsors who made this possible. @habitburgerandgrill @bjsrestaurants @specialtyrestaurants @wienerschnitzel Without your unwavering support, we would have not been able to achieve any of this

@ocsa_cah by @kayleenbakes

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a year ago

happy new year!

new year means new experiences! first time putting together a charcuterie board for a gathering was definitely not on the list by @kayleenbakes

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2 years ago

a bite of cozy pumpkin pie spice roll topped with an addicting maple cream cheese frosting to start the month of september off by @kayleenbakes

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2 years ago

cookies that taste like a delicious cup of matcha latte

it’s like if you marry cookies and matcha latte together and get the best of both worlds by @kayleenbakes

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2 years ago

since we can’t all be olympians in paris…i bring you THE double chocolate chunk muffin by @kayleenbakes

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2 years ago