We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maravilha Ndombaxi a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Maravilha, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My optimism is deeply intertwined with my faith, as exemplified in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Throughout my life, I’ve embarked on various business ventures and endeavors, often without grounding myself in solid principles. For years, I attempted to navigate life on my terms, seeking instant gratification in a society that champions it, making it difficult to maintain optimism or believe in the possibility of success.
However, a significant shift occurred when I began to anchor myself in my faith and put in the necessary work. While prayer played a crucial role, I also understood the importance of taking action. Despite the challenges and the temptation to give up, opportunities consistently presented themselves, aligning with my business aspirations and personal goals.
I find inspiration in witnessing individuals from similar backgrounds pursuing their passions and achieving success. I’ve always desired to be someone others can look up to, not to diminish their own abilities but to empower them to realize their potential. Growing up as the second child among six siblings, I observed my parents working tirelessly without experiencing fulfillment in their endeavors. Determined not to settle for mediocrity, I left home at 16, uncertain of what lay ahead but confident that things would eventually fall into place.
Being an African daughter, societal expectations often dictated the path I should follow. However, I refused to conform to those norms. I craved adventure, taking risks, and charting my own course. Joining the military and pursuing my passion for cooking was one such leap of faith, leading to countless opportunities and training experiences that surpassed my wildest dreams.
Admittedly, the journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing. There have been setbacks and moments when the odds seemed insurmountable. Yet, I draw strength from the memory of my 16-year-old self, who courageously walked away from familiarity into the unknown. If I could do it then, what’s to stop me from doing it again when faced with adversity?
Passion fuels my endeavors, and my word is my bond. Whether I have the support of a multitude or stand alone against the odds, I remain steadfast in my commitment to my goals. Just as I cheer on others, I’ve realized the importance of extending that same encouragement to myself. Ultimately, my optimism springs from my faith and my willingness to seize every opportunity, for I’d rather try and fail than live with the regret of never having tried at all.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
So, what exactly do I do? Well, I’m currently serving as a Chef in the US Navy, a role I’ve embraced for the past 7 years. But let me tell you, that’s not where my journey ends. When I first joined the Navy, I didn’t have grand expectations – it was just a job to me. However, over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible individuals who have inspired me to explore my passion for catering.
I’m deeply passionate about creating intimate culinary experiences and connecting with people on a personal level. Cooking isn’t just about food for me; it’s about fostering meaningful connections and leaving a lasting impression.
Beyond my culinary pursuits, I’m also a staunch advocate for mental health. Having faced my own challenges and witnessed those around me grappling with similar issues, I understand the importance of destigmatizing mental health struggles and offering support to those in need. Thankfully, I’ve emerged victorious in my battle with mental health, and I’m committed to being open and honest about my experiences to encourage others to seek help and embrace their vulnerabilities.
I’m particularly excited about integrating my passion for cooking and mental health advocacy into my business endeavors. Zola’s Kitchen, named after my middle name, embodies not only my love for cooking but also my desire to create a space where people can feel welcomed and understood. The kitchen is my sanctuary, where creativity flourishes, and I want to share that magic with others.
As I look to the future, I envision expanding my catering opportunities, perhaps even publishing a cookbook and hosting cooking classes. But more than anything, I aspire to make a positive impact on people’s lives, whether through a delicious meal or a heartfelt conversation. With Zola’s Kitchen, I hope to leave a lasting legacy that goes beyond food, one that celebrates authenticity, connection, and the joy of sharing a meal together.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my life, three fundamental aspects stand out as paramount: having support, embracing vulnerability and seeking help, and remaining open to learning new things. Let me delve into each one personally.
Firstly, having support has been indispensable. Despite our inclination to shoulder our burdens alone, having people in our corner who genuinely root for our success is invaluable. My support system has been nothing short of amazing. They’ve been there to redirect me when I stray off course, offering guidance and reassurance during moments of self-doubt. They keep me grounded in my aspirations, providing a sounding board for my ideas and stepping in when tasks become overwhelming. Their unwavering encouragement serves as a constant reminder of the strength found in unity.
Secondly, embracing vulnerability and asking for help are essential traits that define meaningful relationships. If we cannot be vulnerable with those closest to us, then perhaps they aren’t the allies we truly need. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; rather, it’s a testament to our humility and willingness to grow. My friends have been instrumental in broadening my perspective, introducing me to new connections and insights that I wouldn’t have discovered on my own. Their fresh perspectives challenge me to see beyond my limitations and adopt a more expansive outlook.
Lastly, remaining open to learning new things is crucial for personal and professional growth. Just because we’ve done something a hundred times doesn’t mean there isn’t room for innovation. An open mind is receptive to new possibilities and approaches, fostering creativity and adaptability. I’ve learned to embrace change and approach each day with a willingness to explore uncharted territories. By challenging my preconceptions and embracing novelty, I’ve been able to evolve and thrive in various aspects of my life.
For those embarking on their journey, I offer this advice: understand that progress takes time, and comparison is the thief of joy. Each individual’s path is unique, and success isn’t always linear. Instead of fixating on what others are accomplishing, focus on your own growth and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Additionally, establishing a plan and maintaining structure can provide a sense of stability amidst life’s uncertainties. Take it one step at a time, setting realistic goals and gradually expanding your horizons.
In conclusion, life is a continuous journey of self-discovery and growth. By cultivating a supportive network, embracing vulnerability, and remaining open to new experiences, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and optimism.
How would you describe your ideal client?
It’s astonishing to think back to a conversation I had with a social media manager last year. She posed a simple question: “What does your ideal client look like?” For months, I found myself staring at that question on a piece of paper, unable to conjure a definitive answer. It wasn’t until I immersed myself in various projects and collaborated with diverse personalities that I began to unravel the characteristics of my ideal client.
In the realm of catering and event hosting, my ideal client is someone who not only entrusts me to execute my craft but also challenges me to innovate and explore new avenues. Many individuals come with preconceived menu ideas or remain indecisive about their preferences. What excites me is a client who dares to think beyond the conventional, infusing our collaboration with creativity and originality. While everyone may boast culinary skills at home, my journey involved formal education and continuous refinement through additional courses, ensuring mastery of my craft.
Moreover, the ideal client understands the importance of setting a realistic budget. While aiming high can yield spectacular results, it’s disheartening to encounter grand ideas coupled with a limited budget. As much as I strive to work wonders, I’m not equipped with a magic wand. However, I refrain from shaming those facing financial constraints, as I empathize with the desire for luxury amidst limited resources.
It’s disheartening to encounter comments trivializing the value of catering or private chef services, comparing them to mass-produced offerings from chain restaurants or grocery stores. What sets me apart is not quantity but the meticulous attention to detail and the passion infused into every dish. Catering and private chef services are a luxury, crafted with care and commitment to excellence, surpassing the standards of mass production.
In essence, my ideal client is someone who appreciates quality over quantity, challenges me to push boundaries, respects the value of my craft, and shares a mutual commitment to excellence. With such clients, I find inspiration and fulfillment in creating unforgettable culinary experiences that surpass expectations and leave a lasting impression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/zolaskitchen
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_zolaskitchen/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Zolas-Kitchen/61555552705043/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThatsMeme_
- Other: Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@_zolaskitchen?_t=8kFG0zm8vPS&_r=1
Image Credits
GREG HALL PHOTOGRAPHY
