When Faye first stepped into the kitchen she wasn’t following a well‑worn path, she was carving out her own.  

Today, as Hospitality and Catering Manager for RAAF Williams Laverton and RAAF Base Point Cook, Faye leads with confidence in an industry where around 90 per cent of chefs are male. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance and when the right people step up to champion talent. 

Originally from Thailand, Faye began her career in accounting and finance, studying at Melbourne University after moving to Australia. Cooking had always been a passion, but in her home country it wasn’t considered a viable career option. Choosing cookery meant challenging cultural expectations and backing herself to pursue what she truly loved. 

That decision changed everything. 

After completing her cookery qualifications, Faye worked across cafés, restaurants and aged care before joining Ventia’s Defence team as a casual chef, supporting functions and events at RAAF Base Williams. What followed was remarkable progression from a casual chef, to Operational Services Supervisor, to Head Chef, and now Catering Manager, a role she has held for the past two years. 

At several points along the way, Faye stepped into dual roles, taking on significant responsibility while still delivering exceptional outcomes for her team and customers. Rather than being daunted, she embraced the challenge. 

“You have to believe in yourself,” Faye says. “If you do what you love and put your heart and soul into it, the results will show themselves.” 

This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, resonates deeply with Faye’s experience. For her, gaining equality isn’t just about representation, it’s about giving opportunity, flexibility and support. 

She believes one of the biggest changes needed to attract and retain more women in hospitality is flexible working arrangements, particularly for those balancing family commitments. 

Just as important as organisational change, Faye credits the people who believed in her, especially Cameron Neubacher, a leader she describes as a true champion. 

Cameron encouraged Faye to apply for roles she hadn’t initially considered and consistently challenged her to stretch beyond her comfort zone. He saw her potential early and helped her see it too. 

“Everyone needs a champion,” Faye says. “Someone who knows what you’re capable of and gives you the confidence to try.” 

It’s a sentiment that speaks to the power of Ventia colleagues supporting female leaders, and the ripple effect that support can have across an organisation. 

Now in a leadership role herself, Faye pays that support forward. She leads with empathy, openness and trust, taking the time to understand her team’s lives beyond the kitchen and creating an environment where people feel safe, valued and supported. 

Faye’s inspiration comes close to home. She credits her mother as her greatest role model. She is a dentist who worked her way through education while raising a family. 

“I didn’t realise how hard it was when I was younger. Now I understand the strength it took.” 

As we mark International Women’s Day 2026, Faye’s story reminds us that giving for others to gain, takes courage from individuals, support from leaders, and a culture where talent is recognised and nurtured, regardless of gender. 

And sometimes, all it takes is one person willing to say: You’ve got this, go for it.