10/07/2026
Alumni Spotlight: Grace Lucille G. Meera
Whisking Dreams into Reality: From Pandemic Entrepreneur to Cruise Line Professional
For many students, the pandemic brought uncertainty and unexpected challenges. But for Grace Lucille G. Meera, a proud graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality program of Southern Luzon State University, it became an opportunity to discover resilience, creativity, and purpose.
As the world came to a standstill during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Grace refused to let difficult circumstances define her future. Determined to continue pursuing her education while helping support herself and her family, she transformed her passion for baking into a thriving home-based business.
Armed with talent, determination, and countless hours of practice, she established Sift 'N Mix, her own small enterprise specializing in homemade goodies and personally decorated cakes. From cakes adorned with elegant calligraphy to cupcakes, cookies, and brownies crafted with care, Grace poured her heart into every creation. What began as a means of making ends meet soon became a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to her dreams.
Despite the demands of running a business, Grace remained focused on her studies at SLSU, where she consistently earned recognition as a Dean's Lister from 2018 to 2022. Her ability to balance academics, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibilities reflected the discipline and perseverance that would later define her professional journey.
After graduation, Grace took her first major step into the culinary industry by joining MacroAsia SATS Inflight Services Corporation as a 2nd Commis de Cuisine. Working in the Cold Kitchen and Japanese Kitchen, she prepared premium meals for international airline passengers, practiced portion control, managed inventory, and specialized in the preparation of sushi, maki, and Japanese bento meals for business-class flights. The experience sharpened her technical skills and deepened her understanding of food safety, quality standards, and large-scale food production.
Today, Grace has reached another milestone in her remarkable journey. She now serves as an Assistant Cook with Norwegian Cruise Line, bringing Filipino hospitality, culinary expertise, and work ethic to the international stage. From baking personalized cakes in her home kitchen to preparing meals aboard one of the world's leading cruise lines, her story exemplifies the power of perseverance and passion.
Grace's journey reminds us that success is rarely a straight path. It is often shaped by adversity, strengthened by sacrifice, and fueled by the courage to keep moving forward. Through every challenge she facedโfrom navigating college life during a global pandemic to building a business from the ground upโshe continued to rise with grace and determination.
The SLSU-CABHA family proudly celebrates the achievements of Grace Lucille G. Meera, whose story inspires current and future hospitality students to dream boldly, work tirelessly, and trust that even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary destinations.