We LOVED talking story with Executive Chef Allan Nagun. He is what makes this industry so unique.
'I'm blessed' is Executive Chef Allan Nagun's response when asked how he feels about his journey to the role of Executive Chef at the helm of Mauna Lani Auberge.
"To be a local boy, a Honoka'a grad, overseeing the culinary operations at Auberge Resorts, the biggest hotel in the portfolio? That's huge! When I was growing up, most of the Chefs in the hotels were from the mainland, and today, most of my sous chefs are local kids. I am training to take my place eventually. I idolize Chefs like Peter and Jay (Peter Abarcar and Jayson Kanekoa, also Honoka'a graduates and both Executive Chefs at Mauna Kea Resort and Waikoloa Beach Marriott and Spa), and I love being in a position where I can help build the culinary workforce."
He attributes Auntie Tracy's work at Kohala High School to helping groom upcoming seniors through the Academy of Sustainability, which utilizes career and technical courses in culinary, music, and fine arts.
As a graduate of Honoka'a High School, Chef Allan remembers asking his Mom and Dad if he could join the workforce right out of high school, and now he is working with high school students where they can earn credit for their class and apply for a job. Two seniors have joined the Mauna Lani Auberge culinary `ohana after graduation, a testament to his dedication to the local community.
Mahalo, Chef Allan, thank you for all you do!