Chef Apurva Pancal
Chef Apurva Panchal first started his journey at The Taj Mahal Palace and Towers, in Mumbai. He started his culinary journey as a Hotel Operational Kitchen Trainee and achieved the position with perseverance. Apurva had the opportunity to learn the new age techniques in the different kitchens of Taj and the use of local seasonal ingredients in modern cooking. He later moved to the United States Of America in 2017. With over 22 years of experience and knowledge of regional cuisines, Apurva has had the honor to serve people, such as the Indian Prime Minister – Narendra Modi, President Barack Obama, King of Dubai – Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prince and Princess of Wales – William and Kate, CEO of Apple – Tim Cook, Tom Cruise, Cold Play Singer – Chris Martin and Alphabet CEO - Sundar Pichai. He is excited to participate as a celebrity Chef of Chefs of Compassion 2024.
Chef Katie Voong
Katie is a seasoned chef, entrepreneur, and dedicated community advocate with over two decades of experience in the food industry. She is passionate about helping others pursue their goals. The journey began with the establishment of Ktea Cafe, which later expanded into Ktea Caters and Mayan Kitchen. Katie serves as a corporate guest chef at prominent high-tech companies such as Google, eBay, Flex, Polycom, and more . Her innovative kitchen is renowned for delicious vegan and vegetarian options, emphasizing the use of transparent ingredients. Collaborating closely with her team, Katie ensures the delivery of delightful meals to all clients. She values the creative process and actively engages with her team to generate unique solutions. Integral to her business plan is the incorporation of a Community Giving Back Program. Katie dedicates a portion of her week to community projects, sponsoring organizations such as ChildrenGiving.org, Joy Club, Flag Football, and more. Ktea Cafe also contributes weekly to The Food Bank. Katie's mission is simple: to provide customers with delicious food made with fresh ingredients, ensuring they leave feeling happy and satisfied with their experience.
Chef Kerry Yepiz
Kerry, currently the Director of Child Nutrition at Los Gatos Union School District, discovered her passion for food in her mid-twenties and attended the San Francisco California Culinary Academy in 1995. She gained experience at renowned establishments like Chez Panisse and Westin Hotels & Suites before transitioning to Il Fornaio. After having her two children, Kerry shifted to Child Nutrition, spending 13 years at a High School District during significant policy changes in school food. In 2017, she joined the Humane Society of the US, teaching plant-based cooking nationwide. Kerry later served as Head Chef at El Camino Hospital, focusing on kitchen safety standards, menus, and events. Missing Child Nutrition, she returned to the field in 2019 at Los Gatos Union School District, where she revamped services, collaborated with parents and students, and emphasized nutrition standards. Passionate about local foods, plant-based alternatives, and community engagement, Kerry continues to make a positive impact in her dynamic role.
