Ark Global Feedback

"Can i just say what an inspiration you are and im so glad that I came to listen to your talk , I found it very thought provoking and i can definitely say that it has made me more aware of my self and other peoples behaviour, thank you so much for coming to our college !"

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“Great to see you again Michael thanks for the hard hitting, straight talking no nonsense insight into alcoholism and addiction I am sure that the learners will be discussing your visit for some time. I can only hope they take your passion and words of wisdom to heart thanks for your time look forward to seeing you again in the future. Keep up this fantastic work”

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Just a quick one to say thank you again for today’s visit. As I said to you we really are very grateful for you continued support.
It is so important for our students to be made aware of the dangers of alcohol and drugs in our industry and the consequences if they choose not to listen. For those of us supposedly old enough to “know better” is often hard but without people like yourselves striving to put the message across, those young people who we look to as our future, stand even less chance in this ever increasingly demanding world.

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"Just wanted to tell you that your lecture was really inspirational, and has given me the extra encouragement to put that extra bit more into my studies. "

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"Hello I'm a part time catering student. I just saw your presentation today and thought I'd say thanks for coming by. Gave me quite a bit to think about, especially since I just turned 23 last Saturday and spent the majority of the night knocking back tequila slammers with my face at the edge of a toilet seat.

Had a bit of a "I'm not gonna be a young lad forever" moment the other day, thinking that drinking every other day of the week even when I'm alone on my nights off might not be such a smart thing a few more years down the line. What really stuck out to me in your talk though, was finding out just how many opportunities there are for young chefs out there. I honestly had no idea. I always thought I'd be stuck in the North East job market and that was that. Never imagined people like us would get the chance to visit places like Sydney. Working abroad in a trade I genuinely have a good crack on doing would be nothing short of fantastic, so I really am gonna see these next few college years through til the end if that's the case.

Anyway, thanks again for coming down. And who knows, maybe if I spend a little less money on booze and tabs, I can afford some of more fancier food ingredients to practice at home with."

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" The feedback we have had from the students has been really positive and a few had made a real connection to your story."

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"Just to say thank you for visiting the Lincoln and Newark Campuses.

Once again (and as always) an excellent presentation from you that really hits home regarding the affect and abuse that alcohol can have on us individually, our friends and in society in general.

The feedback from the students after your presentation was very positive and very much “rounded off” the College’s commitment to alcohol awareness by all participating students passing the accreditation – something that potential employers will respect too."

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"I would just like to say a massive thank you to Michael for taking time out and visiting the students of Doncaster College. Michaels talk was hard hitting, funny and inspirational, the students all got different things form the talk and below are the comments I have received.

‘he was funny and they enjoyed it...’

‘we enjoyed the talk and commented about how honest he was’

‘We were surprised at his frankness and openness and really enjoyed it’

It is not often that the students are that quiet and listen so well that in itself states how much they enjoyed the event."

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"I would like to thank you on behalf of the 3rd Year Students at Salford University for your inspiring and touching presentation, it really made us all sit up and think.

It's inspiring to hear everything you’ve been through, your highs and lows, and how you’ve beaten addiction and come so high. The ARK Foundation that you support seems to be a very dedicated and important foundation for students and employees in the Hospitality Industry."

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"Your presentation was superb, you have that wonderful knack of pitching it just right."

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As always Michael tells it as it is. He is not afraid to share his misfortunes experienced within his career, urging all of our new intake of students to understand the pitfalls & obstacles that await them in the Hospitality Industry. The students take great note of what he says as he holds them “in the palm of his hand”

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"As always it was wonderful to have Michael come to Harrogate College to present his inspirational and frank presentation to our new group of students during their induction fortnight.

His message is always so powerful and passionate and it defiantly effects all that listen. I am sure they have all taken something away with them regarding this amazing industry they want to work in as well as informing them of the risks of alcohol and drug abuse.

Thank you again Michael , you will always be welcome here."

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"It is an honor Chef that you send us your message to us here in New Zealand. The greatest gift you gave was your strength, dignity, passion and drivethe evils of the devil (bottle) had on your life and how you picked yourself up and threw away that life to share your experience so that others would not be effected the in same light in the Hospitality Service Industry".

Blessings

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"It was wonderful to see Michael back here in Christchurch and as he is so much part of this city it seemed important that he should see for himself the devastation the earthquake has caused. Only in Christchurch for a couple of days this did not stop him presenting to the Christchurch Polytechnic and it was wonderful to see the effect his presentation had on the students. He is a natural presenter and he could easily host the next culinary television program put together in the U.K.

The students were in awe of his address, the wonderful career, the fall and recovery, always mixed with his special blend of English humour. From myself and very appreciative Polytechnic tutors, thank you again Michael."

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"Four in a Hundred Alcoholics recover. Far from being an extreme case, Michael lived to share his experience, strength and hope. His worldwide travels began in Christchurch at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in December 2004."

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"Thanks so much for coming to our school. You have no idea how much you touched the kids and they talked very highly of you"

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"Thank you very much for the two presentations that you gave today to the First Year Catering students at Hopwood Hall College, Rochdale. Talking to the students about Drinking and Drugs is considered by them a time to either brag or to mock those who attempt to deliver as being too old and not understanding the culture of youth. Today I watched 50 students listen to every word that you said and absorb it - some were obviously more affected than others and I believe that the honesty with which you spoke conveyed to a few that they need to stop and think about certain aspects of their lives. The students in their feedback all stated that they had learned something and that the way in which it was delivered was good - all felt comfortable and liked the fact that they weren't lectured at but were given an honest account of a real life situation.

More importantly you spoke with such passion about "their" industry and the opportunities available to them you inspired them to look forward and to achieve. Your comments about them being solely responsible for their destiny and achievement really sank home."

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"Michael has visited us many times and always delivers a powerful message to our students. He addresses the highs and lows of a high pressure industry in a way that the students understand. His talk is not only an early warning of what might happen if alcohol or drugs are abused, but also a highly inspirational one of the great success that students can achieve if they work hard and make the right decisions.

Thank you Michael - we look forward to you visiting many times in the future."

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"Thank you for the thought provoking and incisive talk to staff and students at Southport College. You really brought home to us all the dangers and vices in our industry, with the vigour and determination that made you the great chef you are. Both staff and students are asking when can we get you back as they were thoroughly engrossed in your message to them. "

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"You have visited Perth College UHI for many years and on a personal note it is always a pleasure to see you.

On behalf the students and staff we send our warmest thanks and gratitude.

As always, you offer a valuable insight into the working world which gives incredibly perspective to our students. You are so inspirational and capture the hearts and minds of all."

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"On behalf of the catering students at the YMCA Derbyshire would like to say a big thank-you for taking the time to give a most inspirational talk. After I returned with my students to the campus we had ½ hour feedback on the morning and their thoughts. The feedback that I received from the students was very positive and certainly made an impact on the route they wish to take, this has made them realise they can achieve through determination and hard work.

The points that were positives about the morning was that you spoke to them at a level they understood and was honest and gave them respect one of the positives that came up was how youthful you were and a very nice man and would have liked working for you.

The student would very much like you to attend the YMCA again and show off your skills as a head chef within the kitchen environment.
Once again thank-you"

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"Our students were touched as Michael told his story. The stark reality of how quickly problems can affect every aspect of life was brought home in a graphic yet spectacular narrative. The highs and lows, the pleasures and the pressures , the joy and the pain were charted in a timeline that completed a remarkable circle. Michael is a remarkable man and has he shown the resilience, compassion and the stamina required to amaze and inspire the future generation."

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"For 45 minutes the group of students listened, were engaged and clearly understood the content of the session delivered with enthusiasm, motivation and an obvious passion for the subject matter involved…….."

I could quite easily be describing an Ofsted outstanding lesson here, but I am in fact commenting on yet another mesmeric and humour packed presentation by Michael Quinn MBE on the perils of alcohol and its relationship with a Chef at the height of his vocation, and the negative effects that the demon drink can have, regardless of talent, status and salary!

I have listened to Michael before many years ago, and his recollection of those dark days were pretty much the same, however it is the way he communicates with the learners that helps to transmit a truly powerful message to those lucky enough to hear a story that, at the very least, makes them think about their actions and their future possibly in a way they have failed to do so to date….thank you Michael, and you are welcome back anytime.

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Michael Quinns talk at Newcastle Colleges Lifestyle Academy provided beneficial exposure to the real impact that alcohol and drugs can have on both your career and personal life short and long term. Michaels account was very frank and honest and troubled the hearts of our learners who heard first hand how the view ‘ that will never happen to me’ can so easily turn into reality. Michael was a true ambassador of The Ark Foundation and endorsed its worthwhile charity work.

A Colleague stated that “ the whole College, staff and learners should hear the talk, it makes you think !”

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"I'd just like to say thank you for your talk at Stockton Riverside college it was truly amazing and a you're an inspiration and I hope one day I can be as good as chef as you are "

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"Hi Michael, we just wanted to say a big thank you once again for coming to speak to our students. They found your session very interesting, informative and extremely inspiring! It was an eye opener and they are talking about your visit still.

I attach a copy of the picture you were kind enough to let us take.

I hope that you will visit us again soon and we wish you safe journeys and every success with the ARK GLOBAL"

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"I would like to thank Michael and the Ark Foundation for their continued support over the past 6 years. His presentation to the colleges catering students over the issues of alcohol and drug abuse is an inspiration in this highly pressured industry. The students greatly value the delivery and personal experiences that he gives in his own unique way enables them to relate to it well.

Everyone in the industry must get behind what the foundation stands for, for the benefit of existing and new employees in the industry."

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"The passion that Michael brings to this subject makes it very relevant to the young people entering our industry today. The presentation really drives home the issues that may affect them in their future careers in hospitality and the feedback from the students was excellent as always. Keep up the good work and we look forward to seeing you again next year."

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"We have lost count of how many times Michael has visited us, but each time he delivers a powerful message not only to the students but to all of the staff too. His wit and charm and genuine real life stories engage us all and he provides us with the opportunity to use his incidents and advice for many weeks after he has gone in sessions and tutorials. He has helped students move forward when they have shared difficult experiences of their own with him, showing his ability to instantly relate and make young people comfortable in his company. The talk is added to our calendar naturally every year, and we hope Michael continues to deliver it for many years to come."

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The staff at Tropical North Queensland TAFE would like to take the opportunity to thank Michael for his time and hopefully it helps some people who may be struggling to reach for help and not go it alone.

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"This is the 4th presentation I have attended and it encourages me to reflect on discussions and support that my students need throughout the year. Its great to see an outgoing, friendly, well travelled practitioner present such difficult subject with challenging age group in such a potent manner. The Ark Foundation is in safe hand with Michaels skills set."

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'the alcohol and drugs talk was very interesting and I can relate to a lot of what was said in my own life'
Lynn Johnston Student -Adam Smith College

'the alcohol and drugs talk was interesting as I've experienced a lot through family members who haven't redeemed themselves and others who still deal with it'
Stewart Wright Student- Adam Smith College

'I think the talk was good as it got straight to the point also the talk is from someone who has been through the experience'
Emma Thomson-Adam Smith College

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"I wanted to thank you for your kind words and advice. I continue to pray - it's the one thing I can do! I was glad to see the recent publicity about how alcoholism is the most devastating of all addictions. I hope there's a greater urgency now to do something about it on a global scale. May God bless you for all you do!"

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"Many thanks for the invaluable sessions once again today – both students and staff have already commented on how important and educational the talk was, and more importantly the interest , passion and reality of the talk you put over to them."

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"The issues that you discussed in such a frank and open manner were appreciated by the students and the immediate feedback that I received today was overwhelmingly positive. One student came and told me she could have listened to you for hours and had so many questions she had wanted to ask but was a bit embarrassed to speak out."
Bernard Anthony Quinn, Lecturer/Programme Leader

"Thank you very much for coming to talk to our students this morning at QMU. It was a real pleasure to meet you and to listen to your talk."
Trevor Laffin

"Thank you for talking so openly to our students. I really got a lot out of your talk and I know our students will have done so too. You really are inspirational, and it was a privilege listening to your experiences."
Dr. Majella Sweeney, Lecturer

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"I wanted to thank you profusely for coming to talk to the staff last week.
They all commented on the effective and sincere message that you put across. A good investment for their future but will have a profound effect on them."

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"I've really enjoyed reading your story about alcoholism and drug misuse in the catering industry.

My life has been a mirror image of yours, I have worked in the catering industry for the past 7 years and have loved every minute of it, apart from where my alcoholism has taken me. I too ended up losing everything I loved and cared for to this horrible illness, and I do believe it to be an illness.

I lost various jobs, my children, family and friends, homelessness and living out of a tent and mixing with drug users. I by the grace of god managed to get into detox and rehab and managed 12 months sobriety.

But after 12 months of sobriety I returned to the industry and lasted about 2 weeks before relapsing and back on the merrygoround and losing everything again I had worked so hard for. I was back on the streets and even served a small custodial sentence. I experienced all the yets that are so often talked about. I never even wanted that 1st drink or to get drunk, thats the powerlessness and unmanagebillity of this illness.

I am getting everything back slowly, I am seeing my children again and I am living with fellow recovering alcoholics.

I am becoming restless now after 6 months of sobriety and am really keen to get back to cooking, I'm a bit anxious about what happened last time, so I've decided to go back to college and do my level 3 on a part time basis before hopefully going back full time in April, I'm sure I will be a lot more prepared this time.

A lot of my close friends are trying to talk me out of this but I love cooking with a passion, but I do understand their fears.

It is people like you that inspire me that there is a solution and I loved your story.

Thanks again, and keep up the good work."

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"I was in class today at AUT to hear you give your speech...just wanted to say thankyou so much for coming down and spending the time with us. It was a real honour to have you and i'm really grateful to AUT and yourself for organising it. I've had lots of problems in my life with alcohol and drugs and becoming a chef was one of the ways I dealt with it and i've also seen how it can be one of the things that makes it worse. I've been unstable pretty much since I left home at 17 and even lived on the streets. Your speech will inspire me to be careful and stay focused on what really matters so I can have a better life! Cheers mate!"

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"You were an inspiration to me at Westminister College and for years after: I chose to "tour" The Ritz kitchens whilst a student there because I wanted to better understand what really went on behind the scenes of a top hotel kitchen with a chef who was at the top of his profession. As you said, I remember much of that visit: daunting but very exciting to view the workplace, catch a glimpse of you and experience a little of the very pressurzied environment at that time.

My admiration remains as you succeeded in your recovery from alcoholism - many do not. Furthermore, in one lifetime you have utilised two very different skills to inspire and influence positively the lives of so many people.

Thank you once again for your company at dinner - a truly memorable evening for the former college student whose passion for food was motivated by you many years ago."

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"Can I thank you for a most inspirational morning here at Coleg Menai. The talk was eye opening and the students and staff enjoyed it very much."

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"I thought the humbleness of this presentation inspiring"
Spokane Community College, USA.

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"I sincerely think your a legend,since your talk on i have been influenced to cut down to 6 cigarettes a day instead of 30 and i have an overwhelming desire to base my ambitions around your career i have every faith that i can make it big and you have shown me its possible, i honestly thank you for this great oppertunity to meet you and i wish you the best in your ambition to rid the world of addiction. thanks again. "

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"As usual you were talk of the town among the students. It was great to see so many students engrossed in what you were saying."
West Lothian College

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"Keep up the great work"

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"Not only did the talk make me aware of alcoholism but also that if I want my dreams and goals to become real then it's down to me to get there and thanks to you I was so inspired and all my doubts of my ability have been replaced with determination and the will to succeed."

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"It was good to catch up with you and hear more of the amazing work you are involved in - a real credit to you and it is great to see you taking Ark to amazing heights!"

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"Thank you so much for your time. Simply Amazing."
Glen West (Western Institute of Technology, New Zealand)

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"I Would Like To Thank You For Opening My Mind And Eyes To The Effects Of What Drink And Drugs Can Do To Our Systems And To Other People That Truly Care About Us.
Thank You Soo Soo Much"

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"Ark is addressing a critical issue for our industry, and the entire sector shoud get behind it and support it."

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"Lives can and are being destroyed in our industry by the misuse of alcohol and drugs. The Ark Foundation seminars are tackling this problem head on by making young people aware of the consequences."

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Many thanks for your presentation today - as always, it was spell binding to hear you talk so fluently and passionately about your experiences, and the feedback from students has been 100% positive.

All the very best for your forthcoming trip to Oz.

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"There has never been a more important time than now for The Ark"

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"We at Le Manoir aux Quat Saisons urge you to support Michael as he takes 'The Ark' on a global journey"

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To contact Ark Global please send an email to:

michael@arkglobal.org