VANCOUVER
From growing up watching his grandma and mum prepare traditional Goan dishes in Goa, Leslie Fernandes has steadily risen in his culinary journey from the kitchens of Bermuda to the bustling restaurants of Canada through hard work and passion.
Leslie, who hails from Pomburpa-Goa, is presently the regional chef heading the kitchens at the popular Milestones chain of restaurants in Western Canada, and his skills are well-appreciated and recognised in the culinary industry.
“As a child, I loved food and was always fascinated by the power of food to bring people together. I grew up watching my grandmother and mother prepare traditional Goan dishes,” recalled Leslie.
“After completing culinary school in Goa, I felt drawn to a broader, more diverse culinary world.”
At just 23, Leslie packed his bags and left home, beginning his journey in Bermuda in 2003.
“I worked as a head chef at Rustico, a well-known Italian restaurant, for 10 years. In 2014, I left the warm shores of Bermuda in search of new opportunities and a fresh chapter in my culinary career,” said Leslie.
“Having worked as the Head Chef at Rustico, I carried with me not only years of professional experience but also a passion for food and a determination to grow. Canada promised possibility, and I arrived with the hope that my skills, discipline, and work ethic would help me build a future I could be proud of.”
Leslie’s first role in Canada was at Denny’s as a line cook, and he eventually progressed to be a certified trainer.
“At Denny’s, I quickly learnt how to adapt to a new culinary environment and a new culture. Even though it was a shift from the fine-tuned kitchen of Rustico, it became a valuable stepping stone. It taught me humility and the importance of embracing every opportunity as a chance to learn,” said Leslie.
“I worked hard, sharpened my craft, and proved that I was willing to give my best no matter the setting.”
That dedication opened the door to Milestones, the place that would eventually become the heart of Leslie’s success story in Canada.
“From the moment I joined the Milestones team, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity aligned perfectly with my own values as a chef,” he said.
Over the years, Leslie poured himself into the role, learning new techniques, mentoring younger cooks, and consistently pushing himself to deliver excellence.
“Milestones became more than a workplace; it became a second home where I could showcase my skills, contribute to a strong team, and grow both professionally and personally. I started as a line cook at Milestones and over the years progressed to be a sous chef to a head chef to my present role as regional chef across Western Canada, something I am humbly proud of,” said Leslie.
As the years passed, the rewards of Leslie’s hard work began to take shape.
“I was able to buy a home in Canada in 2017”a milestone that symbolised stability, perseverance, and the progress I had made since arriving as a newcomer with big dreams,” said Leslie.
“In 2023, I reached another profound personal milestone when I got married, grounding my life here even more deeply and surrounding my journey with love and partnership.”
“Looking back, my story in Canada is one defined by determination, gratitude, and a belief in the value of steady effort. From the kitchens of Bermuda to the bustling restaurants of Canada, every challenge and every long shift brought me closer to the life I have today.”
Leslie says his success is not just measured by professional achievements but by the home he built, the relationships he cherishes, and the pride he feels in how far he has come.
“Canada has offered me opportunity, and in return, I have given it my dedication. Today, I can confidently say that the journey, every step of it, has been worth it. My story is proof that with hard work, resilience, and passion, dreams can transform into reality,” he added.
