Born in Toronto, Canada, Brian Johnston decided to retire from full-time work at the age of 25, dedicating his life to the exploration of his passions.
He was first exposed to diverse cultures and cuisines while living in and around neighbourhoods like Greektown, Chinatown, Little Korea and Kensington market. He missed this easy access to ethnic authenticities while abroad, and decided in 2005 to combine his love of languages with his hunger for good food: he earned his diploma in French cuisine, graduating as the only non-native speaker in his class.
From 2007-09, he spent two years researching culture and cuisine around Asia, Africa, Europe and South America, staying for free with locals who taught him their traditional dishes and customs.Today he can often be found with more than 15kg of exotic spices and condiments in his luggage, where grinding stones and other essential utensils take up more space than clothes.
In August, 2009, he published his first novel entitled “Not All Men Are Monsters: Sex. Travel. Food. Life.” The true story follows eight months of his life on the road, involved in a very reflective and challenging relationship full of lessons and growth. His experience continues to be shared through a series of interactive blogs.
In addition to writing and cooking, Brian continues to volunteer across Africa and Asia as a teacher and consultant on projects as diverse as information technology, women’s rights and gender issues, and urban planning with a focus on people-friendly environments. In 2009/10, he is volunteering in Namibia, working with underprivileged women to create sustainable livelihoods through cooking and the operation of a tourism-focused restaurant.
His long-term plans include starting a project in Latin America focused on sustainable health, nutrition and employment opportunities for community members, through the sharing of his culinary knowledge and small business skills. All royalties from the sale of his book will be used to support this endeavour.
He is working on a number of books that share his experiences and contact with the world through the perspectives of the people he has met along the way. Brian is passionate about basketball, arts, music and culture, and loves dancing and participating in local festivals wherever he may be.
In travelling to more than fifty countries around the world, his favourite spots to date are Maputo, Mozambique, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is still looking for that special place to feel connected with year-round, where he can build a humble cultural/training centre and a place to call home.
