Age: 23

Occupation: Student

Born in a refugee camp on the border of Laos and Thailand, Totem's parents migrated to Australia when he was only six months old.

"I can vividly remember my parents working tirelessly day and night sewing clothes, helping to support their children. While having an income was an issue, I always knew our stomachs were going to be full. Mum is a very talented cook, and this is where my inspiration started. With a sack of rice, she could make an array of meals. From the ever so popular fried rice, to peasant dishes such as congee, mum always told me that rice is our most precious resource."

As they searched for a better life, Totem's family kept moving and he says his memories from around this time have made him the man that he is today. His parents welcomed two more sons to the family throughout those years. His brother Grant was born in Victoria. Then after resettling again in South Australia, they had his youngest brother Ady, who has Down Syndrome, and who is Totem's greatest inspiration.

"He's the best kid and I want to do this for him as much as for myself. He has been my strength to do well in life."

While cooking for Totem was always a passion, as a traditionally low paying career his parents never considered it an option for him.

"I chose a different career path as I wanted to make my parents proud. Now that my family are in a better place, I feel that I need to make decisions which are best for me."