Having a disability should not hinder anyone to do their passion. Chef Maricel Apatan proved this by becoming one of the best pasty chefs out there. Her passion for baking lead her to create cakes and pastries that seem to be a routine task for a pastry chef - except that she has no hands.

She was just 11 years old when a tragic event in her life happened, that unfortunately caused her to lose her hands. But this did not stop her from achieving her goals in life. She managed to get up and do what she loves - Baking.

Chef Maricel recently visited La Rose Noire Foundation Training Center to inspire our scholars. She facilitated a baking and cake decorating class to the students. She demonstrated a carrot cake recipe with cream cheese icing, and how to make a fondant from scratch. The students had an inspiring afternoon as they showed their talents in decorating by using the fondant the chef made.

Chef Maricel has worked for Shangri-La Hotel as a pastry chef and is now an active advocate and supporter for PWD (Persons With Disabilities) organizations. She showed that in any situation a person may have, determination and passion will always lead to success.