I ate my way through Jenius's book launch

It’s always inspiring (and still quite unusual) for someone to change careers and embark on a path of re-invention and discovery. So it has been for blogger Jennifer Lam of Jenius.com.au. She left her job to pursue her varied interests photography, publishing, digital marketing, and, of course, food, and the result is her first publishing effort, ‘I Ate My Way Through Singapore and Vietnam’.

Jen was kind enough to extend an invitation to her fellow bloggers to the book’s launch at Global Gallery in Paddington, NSW. Combined with a photographic exhibition of images from the book, the launch was a happy, crowded affair.

Photographic exhibition on the walls of the Gallery.

Jennifer Lam of ‘I Ate My Way Through Singapore and Vietnam’

She is popular!

Book signing and book sales were a feature of the launch night

In her speech, Jen talked about the influence of food in her life, and the influence of her family who were in attendance. Ten percent of proceeds from the book sales will be donated to KOTO International, a not-for-profit restaurant training program that assists street and disadvantaged youth in Vietnam.

Jen speaks, with little bro Bryan looking on; Lorette from KOTO talks about the work they’ve done; hospitality students, who gave really professional service throughout the night. And they didn’t mind stopping for photos to be taken of the food, etc. – always a sign of good waiting!

Suitably, the food was wonderful. Provided by Saigon Saigon Vietnamese Restaurant in Glebe, the canapés included goi cuon (summer rolls), deep-fried spring rolls (really hot and fresh) and crispy prawn wontons. Perfect finger food. I’m looking forward to dining there because I also won a lucky door prize of a voucher for Saigon Saigon (thanks, all!).

As with most events, positioning is key – you need to stand close to where the food is coming out from, otherwise you could miss out. We were in a good spot.

Wines were supplied by Aja, and consisted of a Moscato-style Blush and a blended White (meant to be drunk with Asian food). They are light and refreshing, and even though I’m normally a non-drinker, I actually enjoyed both wines.

It was great to see Jen’s entrepreneurial spirit in action. The book launch was so enjoyable and well-organised, and the book itself is a riot of colourful images and useful information that evoke the essence of travel to Singapore and Vietnam. The photographic exhibit is on until 15th November.

Global Gallery is at 5 Comber St, Paddington. Ph: 02 9360 5728