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In a remarkable journey from health educator to celebrated entrepreneur and head chef, Khulood Olaqi has defied convention and emerged as a pioneer in the culinary world. With a passion for sushi and a dedication to her craft, she has become the owner and cuisiniere of Oishii Sushi in Riyadh, making her the first Saudi woman to achieve this milestone. Let’s delve into her inspiring story of culinary pursuit and entrepreneurial success.A Side Project Takes Center StageKhulood Olaqi’s culinary odyssey began in 2010 when she embarked on a side project while pursuing her studies at university. Looking for a unique way to utilize her free time, she decided to explore the world of sushi, a cuisine known for its elegance and precision. Encouraged by her mother, she took her first steps into sushi-making, and it was love at first roll.Self-Taught Sushi SavantWith determination and a thirst for knowledge, Olaqi embarked on a journey of self-discovery.
She taught herself the art of rolling and wrapping maki, slicing sashimi, and even filleting and deboning fish. Her primary source of learning? YouTube tutorials. While she had initial concerns about the popularity of sushi in Riyadh, her friends and family rallied behind her, placing orders and spreading the word, providing her with a solid foundation for her budding business.Learning from Mistakes and GrowthTransitioning from a student of applied medical sciences to an entrepreneur came with its fair share of challenges. Olaqi admits that she made mistakes and initially struggled to turn a significant profit. However, the unwavering support of friends and persistent demand for her creations helped her navigate the business side of things. She learned valuable lessons through trial and error, ultimately strengthening her business acumen.Choosing Passion Over ProfessionUpon graduating from university, Olaqi faced a pivotal decision. She was accepted into a master’s program but realized that balancing her studies with her burgeoning culinary passion was becoming increasingly taxing. After consulting with her husband, she made the courageous choice to take a gap year and focus on her culinary venture. During this period, she discovered her true calling and decided to pursue a full-time career in sushi.
Professional Training and Culinary MasteryTo hone her skills and elevate her culinary expertise, Olaqi embarked on a journey of formal training. She attended courses at the Tokyo Sushi Academy in Singapore, where she refined her techniques and received specialized training from expert chefs, filling the gaps in her knowledge that online tutorials couldn’t address. She further expanded her repertoire by enrolling in courses at London’s Cordon Bleu Academy.Oishii Sushi: A Culinary ShowcaseThe culmination of Olaqi’s dedication and training is evident in the diverse and delectable offerings at Oishii Sushi. Her menu includes both classic favorites like steamed edamame and unique creations such as the signature Han Maki and matcha creme brulee. Her commitment to quality and innovation shines through every dish.Embracing the Culinary CallingWhile Olaqi cherished her studies in medical sciences, she firmly believes that her current path is her true calling. The difficult decision to shift careers has brought her fulfillment and purpose. She looks back on her journey with no regrets, knowing that she has found her true passion.
Oishii Sushi: A Culinary HavenToday, Oishii Sushi, located in the As Sahafah district on King Fahad Branch Road, stands as a testament to Khulood Olaqi’s unwavering dedication and culinary prowess. The restaurant, owned and managed by Olaqi herself, opens its doors from 4 p.m. to midnight every day, inviting diners to savor the flavors of her culinary journey.Khulood Olaqi’s remarkable transformation from health educator to a pioneering female chef in the world of sushi is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. Her journey inspires aspiring entrepreneurs and culinary enthusiasts alike, proving that following one’s heart can lead to extraordinary success.
