Anna Comandante Calder working as a chef | Photo via ACC Photo Archive
In the heart of San Pedro, Laguna, Anna embarked on a journey that would take her from the bustling wet markets to the glittering lights of New York City. Born and raised in this small town in the Philippines, she is an only child with 25 half-siblings on her father’s side. Anna’s infectious sociability and fearlessness in trying new things set the stage for a life filled with passion and purpose.
Anna’s love affair with the culinary arts was ignited at the tender age of her childhood. Each morning, she would accompany her beloved “Lola” to the vibrant wet market, where cooking secrets were passed down through generations. Volleyball, cheerleading, choir performances, dance troupe showcases, and drama classes became part of her youth’s colorful tapestry at Liceo de San Pedro, where she adorned her shelf with numerous leadership awards.
Taking her zest for learning beyond the shores of San Pedro, Anna pursued a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Political Science at Colegio de San Juan de Letran. Little did she know that this diverse background would later open doors to many opportunities in different industries.
Anna’s journey was remarkable, from the corridors of government as a coterminous appointee at the Philippine Tourism Authority to the sun-kissed beaches of Boracay’s hospitality industry. Her talents knew no bounds, as she dabbled in theater and movie acting, singing with a band, folk dancing, modeling for prestigious European print ads, commercials, and even graced the photo banks of Europe.
With a passion for exploring the world, Anna’s culinary odyssey led her to Shanghai, China, in 2005. For over a decade, she adorned the role of a Restaurant General Manager, where her innate flair for organizing parties and events management shone brightly. In an unexpected twist of fate, she rubbed shoulders with the esteemed Scuderia Ferrari, working as a Team Assistant at the Shanghai Grand Prix for an impressive seven consecutive years. In these unforgettable moments, she met iconic Formula One drivers like Michael Schumacher, Felipe Massa, Fernando Alonso, and Kimi Raikkonen, not to mention top executives of the renowned automobile brand, alongside other notable celebrities like Keanu Reeves, Michelle Yeoh, and David Carradine.
But Anna’s heart was not limited to the grandeur of the racing world. Her generous spirit led her to organize fundraisers for Shanghai Healing Home, supporting children with cleft palate conditions. It was evident that her passion for cooking extended far beyond the kitchen, encompassing a profound commitment to the well-being of others.
In 2016, the winds of destiny whisked Anna away to the bustling metropolis of New York City, where she volunteered as a personal chef to Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United Nations. Compassion and dedication to the community ran deep within her veins, as she also lent her time at the New York City Rescue Mission, providing food to those in need.
In the epicenter of the Big Apple, Anna’s culinary journey reached new heights when she crossed paths with Pasquale Martinelli, an Italian Personal Chef, Founder, and Executive Chef at Alloro New York Private Dining, who took her under his wing. During this phase, she would find love, leading her to Connecticut in 2019, where she embraced the challenge of empowering herself in event planning and catering for friends and family. Her passion for cooking and events management, once kindled by her “Lola” in the early mornings of San Pedro, found its radiant glow once again.
Yet, Anna’s unwavering spirit of giving back remained undiminished. She envisions a future where her culinary pursuits serve as a platform to support her community. Inspired by her faith, Anna dreams of donating a percentage of her business profits to their local Church, Vertical Church CT, and uplifting other aspiring women of color who share her culinary passion.
Anna Comandante Calder’s journey from the Philippines to Shanghai and finally to the vibrant streets of New York is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and the profound impact of giving back to those around her. Her story is a beacon of inspiration, illuminating the boundless potential within a well-rounded soul with a heart for others.
