b'CHEF PROFILEscratch, they recall. I remember thinking, Will people accept me? Will they start using my new name? It was a hard change for me, but it ended up being amazing.USING THEIR PLATFORMWhile Nguyen says competing on Top Chef Canada was one of the hardest things theyve done to date, they are nonetheless thankful for the opportunity and the doors it has opened. Today, Nguyen is proud to leverage their success and notoriety to keep those doors opening up the same path for others.Creating a safe space for trans and queer people in this industry is a big thing for me. And I feel like I have the platform that now I can try and do that, they reflect.As for advice to anyone with an appetite to follow Nguyens lead, they add: The best way to grow in this industry is to learn, listen, take in information and acknowledge what people are trying to teach you, even if you dont like it or think its the right way to make something.Ive never thought of myself as the best, and Im always willing to learn, they continue. You have to have that open mind and respect each other in the kitchen, because [thats] the only way it will work out. Issue 22022 | QBiz CANADA |17'