Today we’d like to introduce you to Seyla Khoem.
Hi Seyla, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated from the University of Minnesota with a computer science degree in 2011 and a master’s degree in business from Hamline University in 2013. I am currently working as Software Engineer and managing Jungle Kitchen with daily operation, technology, strategies, and expansion.
Alongside my full-time job and restaurant operations, I am a co-founder of the private non-profit Coconut School Foundation. We have largely built the school through recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, glass bottles, and old tires. Our goal at Coconut School Foundation is to help children in disadvantaged areas access education, healthcare, and technology for free. For more information, please visit coconutschool.org.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Jungle Kitchen has faced many struggles along the way. From dealing with the ever-changing culinary landscape to competing against other well-established restaurants, Jungle Kitchen has had to work hard to stay relevant and create a place that people want to come back to time and time again.
We have faced issues with staffing, finding the right ingredients, and coordinating events promptly. With a lot of hard work, dedication, and commitment, we have successfully overcome these obstacles and provided an unparalleled dining experience for our customers.
Our vision is to ensure each guest receives prompt, professional, friendly, and courteous service and to provide a fair price and nutritional, well-prepared meals using only quality ingredients.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Making the shift from a career in software engineering to owning a restaurant was an unexpected journey with many challenges along the way. From long nights in the kitchen, to dealing with the complexities of hiring and managing the supply chain, to providing exemplary customer service – each experience taught me valuable lessons. Above all else, I have learned that success can only be achieved by never giving up on a vision. Starting and sustaining a business of any kind requires persistence and resilience in spite of difficulties and obstacles – but with dedication and passion for what you do, anything is possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.junglekitchen.com
- Instagram: eatjunglekitchen
- Facebook: eatjunglekitchen
- Other: shop.junglekitchen.com
