For Sukanya (Annie) Craig, becoming a chef was an opportunity to pursue her passion but she’s also encouraging and supporting more women to enter the hospitality industry.

After more than 15 years working across the hospitality industry in Thailand and Japan, Annie began a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery apprenticeship with TAFE Queensland. She built an impressive culinary career at The Brisbane Club and is now working at Clayfield College preparing meals for boarding students, inspiring the next generation of chefs.

Throughout her apprenticeship, Annie has refined her culinary techniques, developed leadership skills and built expertise across some of Brisbane’s most respected kitchens. Annie is a two-time runner-up in Apprentice Chef of the Year and a WorldSkills Brisbane Region bronze medallist.

More recently, Annie was nominated for the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year for the Metropolitan Region at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards.

Yet beyond the awards, she is making her mark as a mentor, supporting women to succeed in a profession that has traditionally been male dominated. Her achievements highlight her commitment to supporting others, particularly women facing challenges in professional kitchens. By sharing her experiences and encouraging others to pursue their goals, she is helping create a more inclusive and supportive industry.

“The support from both TAFE Queensland and my workplace has made me a better version of herself, enhancing my skills and confidence in my culinary career,” Annie said.

For Annie, training has not only strengthened her technical skills but also reinforced the value of lifelong learning and professional development.

“Training gave me choices,” Annie said. “ It taught me that no one is born skilled.”

“With the right support, a willingness to learn, and hard work, anyone can improve. I’m still learning every day, and I hope my journey encourages others not to be afraid to start.”

At 44 years old, Annie’s journey demonstrates that it’s never too late to pursue a passion and that vocational education can open doors to exciting new opportunities.

This National Skills Week, Annie’s journey is a reminder that careers can be reinvented at any stage of life. By pursuing her passion and supporting other women to do the same, she is encouraging more female chefs to see leadership roles in the kitchen as a goal within reach.