For many, cooking is an occupation, an artform, a hobby. For Moses Hernandez, cooking is a form of healing, solace, and a medium to connect with others and express himself.

Hernandez, a chef manager for Elior Independent School Dining at Regis High School in New York City, has become more than just a world-class chef through decades of perfecting his craft. A survivor of addiction and an advocate for personal growth, he is passionate about teaching and inspiring others through his life experience, and mentoring both the next generation and his peers, to accomplish anything they can.

Food has always played an important role in Chef Moses’ life. Growing up in the Bronx, he remembers food as the catalyst for bringing family together. Not only for a sustaining meal and reconnecting, but as a true symbol of showing love and caring for others.

Over the past three decades, he has taken those childhood experiences, combined with years of working alongside other talented chefs and managers, and brings those lessons to the kitchen every day. To him, it is more than just making amazing food, he sees he role as a unique opportunity to impact the next generation by setting an example of professionalism, and showing them the power of “showing up.”

Hernandez’s story is one of persistence, and now, he is bringing that story to everyone, with the publishing of his first book, a self-published memoir, “Raw Truths of a Chef’s Life: Addiction, Passion, and the Lessons That Saved Me.” This self-reflective, powerful book shares the personal experiences from his journey both in and out of professional kitchens, and how his past can inspire the future.

“I spent my career in kitchens, but also spent a life filled with loss and hardships. I felt that combining my stories and my talents would be a good foundation for a book,” Hernandez said. “It's not a secret that many chefs struggle with mental health and addiction issues. I felt that being honest about my past, my career, and the struggles I've overcome could be of value to those that are struggling.”

This major milestone is not the end however, Hernandez says, only the beginning, as he is more inspired and driven than ever to continue telling his story and leaving a positive impact on others.

“Now with the publishing of my book, it really does bring the educational aspect of what we do full circle,” Hernandez said. “A chef who feeds students, is also an author who has shared his story to inspire healing and resilience. That's a powerful statement.”