In today’s dynamic professional landscape, individuals often venture into diverse career paths, and Sara Abhari’s remarkable journey from culinary and hospitality to education serves as a prime example of this. Originally from Iran, Sara found herself captivated by Malaysia’s rich Asian culture and diverse culinary traditions, considering the country, especially Penang Island, her second home.
“I came to Malaysia with the intention of exploring Asian culture and cuisine. The warmth and hospitality of the people, along with the diverse and delicious culinary offerings, truly captivated me. I love trying various local foods from Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines and have grown more accustomed to them than my hometown food,” she shared, which led her to pursue a Diploma in Culinary Arts at INTI International College Penang, immersing herself further into Asian culture and cuisine.
A look at some of Sara Abhari’s creations which boast flavors ranging from Malaysian delights to Mediterranean and Persian delicacies.
Sara’s educational journey is nothing short of impressive. By early 2023, she had completed her doctoral degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management from a local university in Malaysia. Her academic foundation includes a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from INTI International University and a Diploma in Culinary Arts from INTI International College Penang. Additionally, she holds an International Diploma in Culinary Arts from Kendall College in Chicago, USA. Driven by her passion for both business and culinary arts, she pursued knowledge across various disciplines.
It is interesting to note that Sara’s educational pursuits began with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Cellular and Molecular Science from Azad University Tehran in Iran, showcasing her multidimensional capabilities and diverse academic interests.
INTI International University and INTI International College Penang alumna Sara Abhari (first from the right) during a demo session promoting culinary courses at the INTI Education Fair in Penang back in 2017.
Upon completing her PhD, Sara immediately made her mark in the education sector. She currently serves as a lecturer in the School of Hospitality and Hotel Management at a private university in Malaysia. Recognized for her expertise and dedication, she was entrusted with the role of Programme Leader for the Diploma in Hotel Management, further highlighting her leadership abilities and commitment to nurturing future professionals in the industry.
“The art of cooking and the joy it brings to people’s lives have always fascinated me. Through culinary arts, I can express my creativity and share my love for food with others. My academic journey at INTI played a crucial role in shaping my passion for this field. The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training provided me with a solid foundation of culinary skills and knowledge,” she expressed gratefully.
Sara’s time at INTI was filled with recognition and achievements. She received the Dean’s List for Outstanding Scholastic Achievement in 2015, the INTI-Laureate Merit Scholarship and Distinction Award in 2017 and was honored as the Valedictorian for the 2017 Convocation, all of which she deeply appreciated.
Sara Abhari (right) was the valedictorian for the INTI Convocation in Penang in 2017
“INTI has provided me with a solid foundation that enables me to innovate, create unforgettable dining experiences, and bring joy to others through the art of food. I am delighted to now pass on my diverse knowledge to future hospitality professionals,” she added, beaming with satisfaction.
With her diverse background and experiences, Sara brings a profound understanding of the culinary world’s intricacies and dynamics to her role as an educator. Her practical knowledge of various cuisines, cooking techniques, ingredients, and flavor profiles allows her to effectively guide students on their culinary journeys.
When asked about how her culinary arts and hospitality experiences benefit her current role in the education sector, she emphasized the broader perspective and adaptability she gained in the professional world.
“My unique skill set allows me to offer real-world insights, practical knowledge, and a multicultural perspective to my current role. These experiences have not only enriched my professional capabilities but also enable me to inspire and guide students in their pursuit of success in the culinary arts and hospitality fields,” explained Sara, who has published more than 10 papers in well-known academic journals, keeping herself up to date with the hospitality and food and beverages market.
Though the transition from the fast-paced culinary environment to the academic setting posed significant challenges, Sara’s active engagement in learning activities and proactive mindset helped her find profound satisfaction in her role as an educator.
“By actively engaging in the learning process, participating in various activities during my study journey, seeking support when needed, and embracing a proactive approach, I overcame these challenges and thrived as a student in the education sector. Embracing professional development opportunities and focusing on student-centered teaching were crucial in successfully navigating these challenges and finding fulfillment in my role as an educator,” she said.
Sara highlighted the value of her culinary and hospitality skills in an educational setting, stating that her hands-on approach enriched her culinary abilities and concepts.
“As a specialist in culinary arts and event planning, I share my industry experiences and knowledge with my students. Conducting practical demonstrations, showcasing various cooking techniques, food preparation methods, and presentation styles using my culinary skills helps students develop essential culinary skills.
Sara Abhari bidding farewell to her lecturers Dr. Khor (left), former Dean of INTI International College Penang’s School of Business, and Dr. Racheal Poh (right), Head of Programme for the School of Business at INTI International College Penang, after completing her Master of Business Administration programme.
“Overall, my culinary and hospitality background enriches the educational setting by bringing practical knowledge, industry connections, and experiential learning opportunities. By incorporating these elements, I aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing students for successful careers in the culinary and hospitality industries, and making their study journey more enjoyable,” she said.
Before joining the education sector, Sara excelled as a culinary consultant, entrepreneur, instructor, event planner, and food critic writer. Through these roles, she gained firsthand experience in various culinary establishments, ranging from fine dining restaurants to street food vendors. Her expertise in market trends, customer preferences, and business acumen made her an invaluable asset to the establishments she worked with.
As the Programme Leader for the Diploma in Hotel Management, Sara aspires to enhance the educational experience, prepare students for industry demands, and contribute to the advancement of the higher education system. She aims to shift the negative perception surrounding job opportunities in the hospitality industry and promote its potential for growth and success.
“To succeed, follow your passion and dedication. Work hard, stay focused, and strive for excellence. Remember that the skills and knowledge you gain will prepare you for a successful career in the industry in the future,” she said.