When Vasti Stephanie Chulchip first entered Oído’s Culinary and Hospitality Institute, she had never cooked. “I knew absolutely nothing,” she admits with a laugh. But that didn’t stop her from diving in and learning everything she could.

Vasti grew up in San Ángel, a small community where she lived with her parents and older brother in a humble home. Her mother’s simple kitchen, complete with a fogón (stove), is where Vasti first watched her family prepare meals—though she never imagined it would become her career. After graduating high school, she dreamed of becoming a nurse, but when that path didn’t work out, she found an unexpected opportunity with Oído’s culinary program.

Vasti was intrigued by the program’s accessible scholarships and the chance to learn from renowned chefs. “They gave us everything we needed—supplies, materials, even our uniforms. It’s rare to find an opportunity like this,” she explains.

Over time, Vasti mastered techniques, gained confidence in the kitchen, and learned lessons like teamwork and serving with love. “This program is a family,” she says. “It helped me grow and treated me with kindness.”

Today, Vasti is putting her skills to work at El Jardín de Catita, a local restaurant in Kantunilkín, proving that even with a humble start, bold dreams can lead to incredible opportunities.

Vasti’s journey reminds us of Oído’s mission: to empower young people, break down barriers, and transform lives through education and mentorship.