International Association of Women Recognizes Michelle Lainez as a 2019-2020 Influencer
Michelle Lainez, Chef/Owner at Chef Michelle and Company, joins networking organization
CHICAGO, March 19, 2019 (Newswire.com) - The International Association of Women (IAW) recognizes Michelle Lainez as a 2019-2020 Influencer. She is acknowledged as a leader in the culinary industry. The International Association of Women (IAW) is a global in-person and online networking platform with nearly one million members, 1000+ in person and virtual events, over 100 Local US-based Chapters and International Chapters in several cities in China.
“I’m pleased to welcome Michelle into this exceptional group of professional women,” said IPDN President and IAW Spokesperson Star Jones. “Her knowledge and experience in her industry are valuable assets to her company and community.”
A native of Southern California, Chef Michelle Lainez has deep Salvadoran roots. As a young girl, she spent her summers in El Salvador where she honed her cooking skills while learning all she could about the Salvadoran traditions of agriculture, butchering and cheese making.
“I’ve always had a passion for food and events but didn't know it was possible to make a career out of it until I went to a culinary school open house in high school,” she said. “Once I discovered that it was possible, I went for it.”
Chef Lainez went on to forge a highly successful career in the culinary arts industry for nearly 20 years. Two years ago, she launched Chef Michelle & Company, a catering company based in Los Angeles. From catering customized small and large events to full-service event planning to at-home cooking lessons, Chef Lainez provides a variety of culinary services. She incorporates her philosophy of “zero waste and conscious eating (eating local and farming sustainably) in everything she does.
“I have an innate skill to make people feel comfortable. Event planning can become hectic, and it is one of my many responsibilities to make sure my client feels comfortable and confident with the whole process,” she said. “My expansive experience in the culinary industry has allowed me to learn many styles of service and cuisine. This knowledge helps me create beautiful and thoughtful events for my clients. From the most high-end event to the more relaxed, I am confident that we can create a beautiful experience for you.”
Admitting catering can sometimes be a challenging career, Chef Lainez nevertheless works tirelessly to create the perfect event for each and every client. She also enjoys mentoring and teaching young culinary professionals. “The best reward I get is seeing my clients happy and creating memories for them,” she said. “Watching my interns grow in their skills and craft is one of the most satisfying parts of my business.”
In addition to running her business, Chef Lainez gives back to her community in a number of ways, including as a board member of Hope Street Family Center and a contributing member of Chefs Collaborative and Slo Food LA. Excited about the future, Chef Lainez’s goals include expanding Chef Michelle and Company to Orange County. “I also plan to launch a Salvadoran food concept in DTLA,” she added.
Education & Accomplishments: Culinary Arts, California School of Culinary Arts; A.A., Pasadena City College; Certified Food Handler: board member of Hope Street Family Center; contributing member of Chefs Collaborative and Slo Food LA
About IAW
The International Association of Women (IAW) is a global in-person and online professional networking platform that provides nearly one million women the forum, professional development and services needed to thrive in an interconnected world. Through 100+ local chapters, International Chapters in several cities in China and 1000+ in person and virtual events, members cultivate valuable connections, develop professionally, and promote themselves and their businesses. Founded in Chicago in 2017, IAW is a division of Professional Diversity Network, Inc., an online network tailored to provide diverse professionals in the United States with access to employment opportunities.
Source: International Association of Professional Women
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