Annalie Huberman-Hertz had always wanted a career in the restaurant industry but feared her Down's Syndrome might hold her back.
So when the chance came to be mentored by leading chef Michel Roux Jr she could not believe her luck.
The 23-year-old is one of eight people with a disability to take part in a new Channel 4 series, which sees Mr Roux Jr mentor young hopefuls who want to be restaurateurs.
Ms Huberman-Hertz said: "At first I was so nervous about being on TV, but gradually I got used to it and felt more comfortable.
"I have always wanted to work with people, I love them, and this was my chance, so I had to take it."
The four-part series, Kitchen Impossible, sees the participants train to a standard where they can find employment.
In the first episode, broadcast on Thursday, viewers can see Ms Huberman-Hertz take centre stage as she tries to prove herself in the kitchen and on the restaurant floor.
A keen Israeli dancer, she said she was a natural-born performer who had what it takes to be a great waitress.
She said: "I love being with the customers and front of house is something I always wanted to do. I love to chat with the customers and check they are okay because I'm a great host."
Ms Huberman-Hertz, from Finchley, north London, has never had a paid job, but impressed Mr Roux Jr. He spotted her "front-of-house potential" in the first episode, despite the fact that she almost dropped £60 worth of steak on customers.
She said: "I was so nervous… the plates we had to carry were huge. When I nearly dropped them, I was like 'Oh no!' - but I got better at it.
"At the end you get to see who gets a job. I can't say what happens, but the experience helped me in my career and I've made loads of new friends."
Ms Huberman-Hertz, whose great-grandfather was former Chief Rabbi Joseph Hertz, features in the show alongside her best friend, Sarah Merriman, 23, who also has Down's Syndrome.
Their mothers met at a Norwood baby group and the girls have been friends ever since.
Ms Merriman, who recently moved into an independent living flat through the Langdon charity, said: “I was so worried I would fall out with her [Amelie] because we had to work in the kitchen together.
“We did argue a bit but it was fine in the end. I think they cut out the worst bit where we had an argument about parsley but I loved it and loved being with my best friend.
“I have got so much independence with my flat and the show has taught me how to do a job.
“I got to do waitressing which I really loved. I love talking to the customers and seeing they are happy.
“I really want to work because I love it - and I would love to do more TV.”
Kitchen Impossible starts tonight and is on Channel 4 on Thursdays at 9pm
