KINGSTON, Jamaica – Twenty-five-year old Dwayne Jolly has always had hopes of becoming a teacher or forensic scientist. However, as he got older he discovered his culinary and entrepreneurial skills and has recently opened his own restaurant—Cheffin’z with Jollydon.

“I hope to make my business one of the leading restaurants in Jamaica by using feedback from our customers to make better tasting food. I also want my business to be a motivation to the younger generations so they can press on and find their horizon,” the Camperdown High School past student told the OBSERVER ONLINE.

Officially opened on June 16, the restaurant—located on Shortwood Road in Kingston—serves a variety of Jamaican meals on a day-to-day basis.

Jolly, who has employed a small staff, oversees and actively ensures the smooth running of the establishment.

Before having an official location, the youngster would prepare meals at home when catering for events or simply having pop-ups.

He noted that he is not discouraged by the difficulties he has encountered along the way.

“The challenges I face are minor because in everything I put God front and centre in my business. Nevertheless, some of the problems would include slow days, losses through bad resources from suppliers,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jolly is encouraging his peers who want to pursue a similar career, to put their best foot forward to achieve their goal.

“Find your horizon, don’t be afraid to ask for help, don’t be discouraged by negative comments. Keep your eyes on the prize. Always remember why you started and where you ought to be,” he said.

As for his business, the businessman is eyeing expansion in the near future, though tight-lipped about the details.

“Our aim is to be as versatile as possible. Catering to every class of people to suit their culinary needs. Things are coming but I’d prefer to keep it under the books until it comes to fruition. God and Time,” he said.

– Kediesha Perry