I never saw myself becoming part of the culinary field. My dream was to become a private detective, so when I started college, I pursued Criminal Justice.
I came to America in 1972 from Mumbai. I had two beautiful daughters and launched a 25-year career in the Insurance industry. When I retired in 2012, I learned about QCH’s Senior Center in Forest Hills.
Growing up, my stepdad was a Federal Agent, so I’ve lived in almost every state on the East Coast from New York to Florida. I’ve worked in every field, from food service to truck driving to construction to car sales.
“I left Guatemala for New York City when I was 35 years old. My wife, two daughters and I moved into the Forest Hills Co-op, and I started washing dishes at a local bakery.
“I’ve been a resident of Queens for 38 years. I love Queens because there’s just this strong sense of community, even more so for me because my husband runs a dojo here.
“I came to know QCH through the Summer Youth Employment and Work, Learn & Grow programs. Through both I was able to work for a local television station.
“Our family came to the United States from El Salvador. My sister and I came to QCH for the English classes; we wanted to communicate better with people. The way they teach us here is better than any other place I’ve been.
