Georgia Sommerin – Becoming a mum for the first time and working in a Michelin-star kitchen

Returning to work after becoming a mother is a challenge for many women and particularly for first time mums. We have some advice and thoughts to share on balancing family and work,  asking for help and more from Georgia Sommerin. She is Head chef at Home at Penarth and  recently returned to its Michelin-star kitchen after having her first child.

First Time Mum in a Restaurant Kitchen

“Recently I became a mum for the first time. I know this industry is hard, with its long hours, so it has been crucial to me to find the right balance. A bit of background: I’ve worked in the kitchen since the age of 13. It started as a Saturday job, and I always knew it was the right path for me, so I joined full-time at 17. That was in 2016, and I’ve worked alongside my dad, James, ever since.”

Georgia was the youngest competitor on Great British Menu 

“I represented Wales on Great British Menu, only to find I was the youngest ever competitor, in 2020. A tough learning curve, and I put a lot of pressure on myself, but it definitely made me stronger as a chef. Two years later I went back for more.

“Our restaurant, Home, is a family business in every sense. I cook alongside my father every day; my aunt and partner manage the front of house, while my mum handles the business side. My dad and I share a very strong bond: we don’t even need to talk to each other during service- we just know what the other is thinking when we’re at the stove together!”

“I bring my son to work, and we all pitch in to look after him throughout the day. Being part of a family business means we’re able to create an environment where work and family life blend together, and I feel incredibly fortunate for that. My son is growing up surrounded by
people who care about him.”

Family and work can thrive together

“It’s heart-warming to know that as he grows, he’ll also become familiar with the business, seeing it not just as a place of work but as a part of our family’s journey. Watching him grow up while continuing to do what we love has been such a unique experience. It’s a constant reminder that family and work don’t have to be separate worlds – they can thrive together.”

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness 

“I understand that not everyone will have the same privilege, but if I could offer any advice to colleagues or friends who are starting a new family, it would be this: don’t give up on what you love. Pursuing your passion is important, and it’s equally important to remember that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. Building a support system, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, can make all the difference.”

Experience of “mum guilt”

“You shouldn’t feel forced to choose between doing what you love and nurturing your family life – they can and should coexist. I’m sure many people experience ‘mum guilt,’ worrying they’re missing out on precious moments with their child, but I truly believe it’s incredibly valuable for children to see their parents doing something they are passionate about.

“It teaches them resilience, dedication, and the importance of finding joy in what they do. When your child grows up seeing you fulfilled and happy, it sets an inspiring example of how to balance work and life without sacrificing your own happiness.”