I have my business diploma in marketing and sales from the University of the Fraser Valley.
I have worked in restaurants for over 30 years and was the General Manager of White Spot for 7 years.
I left White Spot to pursue my career in wine by starting employment with Fortitude Wine Bar here in the Fraser Valley.
Most recently I have joined the management team but I am looking to work as a Sommelier with our team.
I am starting my WSET 2 in March and am excited to learn more about my passion for wines and further career within the industry.

Hello, my name is Shivam Goyal, or as I now like to call myself, “Chef” Shivam Goyal. I’m a professional chef with a passion for food, cooking, and quality ingredients. I hold a post-graduate degree in Italian cuisine from George Brown College and currently work at an Italian restaurant in downtown Toronto. For me, cooking is more than just a career; it’s a source of personal fulfillment and contentment. I truly believe in the saying, “Life is about yeses and no’s, but there’s often a lot of 'ifs' and 'buts' hidden in between.” This resonates with me deeply as it reflects the journey of growth and learning in both life and the culinary world.

I am food and wine content creator with my WSET Level 3 certification. I create content for Instagram (@jennval_winegal) to entertain and educate my followers about wine, wine tasting and food pairings. I have also recently launched my website (jennvalewinegal.com) where I share my blog, recipes, and offer in-person or virtual wine tasting for people living in Toronto, Canada.

Educational Background:

I have always been a passionate learner, and while my formal education was not specifically in wine, my journey into wine education began with a deep personal interest that evolved into something much more. I’ve immersed myself in the world of wine, from attending educational workshops to hands-on experiences that have shaped my understanding and appreciation of wine culture.

Pour Choices Wine Group:

Pour Choices began in 2019 as a personal exploration into curating inclusive and engaging wine experiences. I started this journey by connecting with diverse communities and focusing on the accessibility of wine education, particularly for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ audiences. I’ve built Pour Choices with the goal of making wine approachable for everyone, regardless of prior knowledge, and our events have since grown to include guided tastings, community-driven tours, and collaborations with industry professionals.

Through Pour Choices, I continue to learn from sommeliers, winemakers, and experts in the field, while also sharing this knowledge with our growing community in a way that celebrates diversity, culture, and inclusivity.

WSET Level 2 and 3
BC Wine ambassador Level 1 and 2

Seasonal Cellar Hand and Wine Shop Associate - Roche Wines (Penticton, Okanagan Valley, BC)

Vineyard Worker and Wine Shop Associate - Sage Hills Estate Vineyard (Summerland, BC)

Cellar Hand (Internship) - Bella Wines (Naramata, BC)

WSET Level 2 certified, I began hosting Asian food and wine/sake pairing events under @wine_pairing_company in 2023. Born and raised in a northern city of China, my deep connection to Asian food is rooted in my cultural heritage. I’m passionate about helping people discover wines that beautifully complement Asian cuisine, making wine approachable and enjoyable for everyone. Continuously learning and growing, I’m excited to share my love for food and wine pairings with a wider community.

I'm currently a student studying Hospitality Management at Fanshawe College, Downtown Toronto. I'm working as a bartender simultaneously and have worked for a major cruise line in the U.S in specialty restaurants and bars and I also have 5 star hotel experience back home.

Education:
WSET Diploma (in progress)
CAPS Program, George Brown College (in progress)
Certified Sommelier, Court of Master Sommeliers
Bachelor of Arts, University of Western Ontario

Professional:
Management at Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality

When I'm not studying or working, I'm also a full-time mom!

I am a Clinical Social Worker currently working full-time in education, with a part-time role at Grand Cata, a wine shop and wine bar in Washington, DC. I hold WSET Level 1 and 2 certifications and am preparing to sit for Level 3 in December. My passion for wine has led me to participate in several prestigious food and wine conferences, including SommCon 2023, Pebble Beach Food and Wine 2024, TexSomm Sommer Camp 2024, and The Roots Fund Auction. Through my diverse experiences, I blend my expertise in social work with a deepening knowledge of the wine industry.

Originally from Taiwan and new to Toronto, I am currently working as a server at a Michelin-starred restaurant. I’m eager to enhance my knowledge and skills to become more valuable in the hospitality industry.