From Whisks to Workshops: The Journey Behind UpSkillz Studio

July 7, 2025, marked more than the opening of a baking studio. It was the realization of a dream six years in the making.

What started as a quiet vision in my heart, nurtured by faith, passion, and the steady support of my husband, has now come to life as UpSkillz Workshop Studio. This space isn’t just a classroom; it’s a reflection of my mission to help others gain life changing skills and see real outcomes, whether it’s starting a business, mastering a craft, or simply growing in confidence.

 

 

A Vision Fueled by Passion

My journey began with a rolling pin, an apron, and a dream. After studying at top culinary institutions like The Academy for International Culinary Arts (AICA), Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts (APCA), and ISCAHM, I honed my craft both locally and abroad. My time as a pastry chef in Malaysia and Australia gave me a deeper appreciation for discipline, technique, and creativity in the kitchen.

In 2020, during one of the most challenging years the world had faced, I launched Amaze and Graze by Chef Marj an online business specializing in handcrafted desserts and edible gifts. I poured my heart into every product, from macarons to grazing boxes, and soon, our brand gained recognition across TV networks like ABS-CBN, GMA, TV5, and digital platforms like Spot.Ph, When in Manila, and Philippine Star.

But the dream didn’t stop there.

UpSkillz: A Place for Skill and Success

UpSkillz was born out of a simple yet powerful idea: What if we could build a space where people could gain practical skills that lead to real change? Not just learn—but grow. Not just bake—but build. I wanted my students to walk out not just with a certificate, but with the confidence to take on new opportunities—whether it’s starting their own food business or turning a side hustle into a livelihood.

That is the mission of UpSkillz:
To educate, empower, and equip individuals through skill-based workshops—so they can create the life they’ve been dreaming of.

 

We offer more than baking and cooking classes—we offer stepping stones to success with Real Kitchen. Real Experts. Real Skills. That’s what sets us apart.

Sharing the Love Behind Every Lesson

Every product, every recipe, and every class I teach is backed by years of experience, but more importantly—by love. Love for the craft. Love for the process. Love for seeing others succeed.

At UpSkillz, I want people to feel that. I want our students to understand the why behind what we do:

• Why mastering boiled icing can save them time and money.
• Why knowing the difference between buttercream types matters in a tropical country.
• Why branding and packaging are just as important as flavor.

We're not just teaching how to bake—we’re teaching how to thrive.

 

Grateful for a Beautiful Beginning

During our grand opening and blessing, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you to Father Jhun Sanchez for the blessings, and to every friend, family member, colleague, and brand partner who showed up with love and support. You made this milestone even more special.

To everyone who has believed in this dream—you are part of it. Your support means everything.

 

 

The Journey Continues

This is just the beginning. My hope is that UpSkillz becomes a place of creativity, learning, and sweet success—for me and everyone who walks through our doors.

To those thinking of taking that first step—know that you are welcome here. Whether you're a hobbyist, a home baker, a full-time mom, or a future entrepreneur, there's a place for you at UpSkillz.

Let’s bake. Let’s build. Let’s become.