Kickstart Your Culinary Dream

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone: On Mentorship, Support Systems, and Taking the Leap.

Just a little note for transparency: I have an ongoing partnership with KETTLE® and helped create this mentorship programme with them. This post isn’t sponsored or something I’ve been asked to share — it’s just a project I care deeply about, and frankly, it was too good an opportunity not to tell you about.

When I first took the leap into freelancing, I didn’t have a grand plan — just a notebook full of ideas, a fierce curiosity about food, and a whole lot of hope that it would somehow all work out. What I did have, though — and what truly made all the difference — was a handful of people who believed in me. Friends who’d lend a hand with a shoot. A mentor who gave me my first proper break. A cheerleader or two when I felt like packing it all in.

The truth is, freelancing can feel like a lonely old road sometimes. You’re the chef, the social media manager, the accountant, the cleaner… and the one making the tea. So finding (and nurturing) a support system becomes vital. It’s not a luxury — it’s essential.

That support can come in many shapes: a fellow creative who understands the juggle. An editor who gives you honest feedback. A client who respects your boundaries. A WhatsApp group that lifts you up when the self-doubt creeps in (we’ve all been there). It doesn’t have to be big or fancy. It just has to be genuine.

Over the past year, I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of that kind of support — not just in formal programmes, but in quieter, more personal ways too. In mentoring someone over a cup of tea. In helping them untangle their ideas or see themselves a little more clearly.

That reflection has led me to open up a handful of quiet coaching spaces this Autumn — gentle, supportive 1:1 sessions for creative folk at a crossroads. Whether you’re overwhelmed by options or unsure where to start, this is a space to reconnect with your creative voice and carve out your own path, without the noise or pressure.
If that’s something you’ve been quietly wishing for leave a comment below or drop me a message or email hello(at)rachelkhoo(dot)com.

But now, back to something I’m so excited to share…

🥔 Applications for the KETTLE® Khoo Academy Year 2 are now OPEN! 🥔

If you’re dreaming of kickstarting your culinary career but find yourself thinking, ‘Where do I even begin?’ — this is for you. The KETTLE® Khoo Academy is a 6-month mentorship programme where you’ll get exclusive access to me and the brilliant team at KETTLE®. We’ll cover everything from refining your skills in the kitchen, to positioning yourself in a competitive industry, and even how to tell your story in a way that really connects. Aswell as a £4000 bursary!

We launched this last year and I’ve been blown away by the passion, talent and drive of our first cohort. Seeing them flourish has been one of the proudest moments of my career.

And yes — I personally read every single application. I want to hear your story, your ambitions, and how we can help you on your journey.

So, if you’re sitting on a dream and just need that little nudge — a bit of guidance, a bit of financial support, and a whole lot of encouragement — please click here to apply. And pop over to KETTLE®’s socials to learn more about how the Academy works (terms and conditions apply).

Remember: you don’t have to do it all alone.

Here’s to building your own brilliant support system — one potato chip at a time 😉

With love and chips,
Rachel x

A Few Favourite Resources
If you’re looking to build your own freelance or creative support system, here are three online spaces I’ve found incredibly helpful and inspiring:

• London Writers’ Salon – A brilliant community that offers daily writing sessions, workshops, and encouragement whether you’re writing a newsletter or the next great novel.

• Creative Mornings – Free monthly talks around the world (and online) filled with soul, smarts, and seriously good people. Great for sparking new ideas and meeting likeminded creatives.

• The Dots – Like LinkedIn, but warmer and more creative. Perfect for finding collaborators, opportunities, and cheering others on.

Have a favourite resource of your own? Leave a comment below — I’m always up for discovering new corners of the internet that feel like a warm hug and a strong cup of tea.

Know someone who needs this kind of nudge? Send it their way — or better yet, surprise them and apply on their behalf. (Future-you will earn major brownie points.)

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