MADAME TALKS: WOMEN-EMPOWERING-WOMEN
Julie Ann A. Bonador
Filipina Sous Chef
An interview with Chef Julie Amanpulo’s Sous Chef. She has navigated success within the male- dominant culinary industry. In this interview, Julie shares her career path, passion for food, cooking, and advice to future female chefs.
IN PHOTO: Chef Julie at Pamalican Island,
wearing Coco white dress from Madame PH
GET TO KNOW HER
I came from a simple family with humble beginnings, but
my parents are very supportive. I’ve seen their struggles and
limitations in terms of finances. Since then, it motivates me to
dream big and work harder to
give back to my parents. They made me who I am today. An attitude of gratitude takes me
to even greater heights.Looking back, I started from rank & file post, braving to work abroad in my early 20’s
away from my family, and grinding beyond my comfort zone. It was the challenge I needed to adapt with extreme
pressures. I had no regrets!
IN PHOTO: Chef Julie on her off day, she loves
to commune with nature as her way of self-love.
How do you envision yourself in 5-10 years?
In 5-10 years, I am hopeful to see myself being
successful, braver, wiser, and happier. In such a
way, I have done my part well in leading a team,
helping my staff achieve a better career path, and
inspiring women that they too, can take the lead!
Although, it’s not an easy route, but possible on
how much you are willing to give and sacrifice.Later in life, I plan to conducting skills training to provide basic culinary and food safety knowledge.
Having a strong support system, Filipinos are
adaptable, resourceful, and fast-learners. I’ve
always believed that learning and education should be made accessible. This way, we can empower
women, mothers, and even the elderly in the local
communities. Then, I look forward travelling to
countries I used to dream of when I was a child.
Share your personal tips about SELF- LOVE & SELF-CARE in empowering yourself and the women around you.
Women empowerment is like a fire from within. It’s
a brave choice you make for yourself—from igniting
your inner potential to visualizing your dreams, and
making it happen. No matter how dark the life gets,
always carry the light with you. Trust me, you’ll
shine through!As for my daily routine, I love reading books and my
kind of therapy. Meantime, I’m living in an island, I
carry my books with me at the beach or anything
that has a backdrop of nature, and sunset!Self-love starts in investing and prioritizing yourself.
It’s also important to be me mindful of the people
you surround with. While I’m a people-person, I
keep only few people in my inner circle of trust.
What qualities or fashion sense/style do you have that aligns to MADAME PH Brand?
When I saw Madame PH online, I was intrigued
the way the brand introduced it in the market.
There were few choices back then, but it has
unique collections. Only to find out they are
selling in few batches which I think an edge,
rather than purchasing from fast fashion that has
mass-produced items you can see everywhere.My first purchase was in 2023. I had dresses and
coordinates for my daily casual. The vibe is so
feminine, style is relaxed, chic, and elegant. Their
collection is something that you would love to
wear again and bring for your next getaway. It
resonates with my carefree personality, too!
IN PHOTO: Chef Julie wearing Paris Dress in
shade of emerald from Madame PH.
All clothes are hand-sewn by Filipino seamstress
in few batches, catering the female market in the
Philippines and Asia.
A celebration of Gawang Pinoy,
Galing ng Pinoy!
In a world of quick shift to mass- produced economy and the challenges of colonial mentality, what do you think are the initiatives or mindset change need to be made so we can encourage Filipinos on mindful purchasing by supporting local brands and sustainable local products?
Coming from a place where I passionately craft
for delighting the senses, it’s important to
understand that brands should be serving for
value. It’s sad to see that there are brands who
are only profit-oriented and lacks purpose.
Through consistency of product quality, right
messaging, and delivery of services, people are
willing to spend more for the value they can
get. Don’t take the shortcut. Enjoy the journey
to ace your business game and learn from your
customers. You have to earn your customer’s
trust so they’ll support you. Please, don’t just
compete. COLLABORATE & INNOVATE!
Why is it still important to celebrate the Filipino artistry and craftsmanship, despite the modern era we live in today?
In my opinion, our education system and
social programs should also take part to
recall our heritage & tradition. With this,
young generation can draw initiative to
rediscover Filipino artistry & craftsmanship.
It’s a collaborative work to be nurtured.As a Chef, I celebrate Filipino artistry by
incorporating local ingredients, using native
tools, and storytelling of foods. I let the guest
see-through the traditional cooking to give
them surreal experiences. It’s important
because it keeps us grounded. By recalling
our roots, it unites us.