Background

The development of this program was in response to feedback from newly arrived young people from the Horn of Africa, that not many knew how to cook or provide for themselves. Many young people who have migrated to Australia may not be accompanied by their parents, or in some cases may become the primary care giver for their parents due to health or social issues. For some, this is the first time they have had to prepare food and they need to learn about Australian nutrition, cooking methods and how to work together as a team. The ability for a young person to cater for themselves will provide a stepping stone into the world of independence.

Aims

The project has been designed to enable young people to cook and provide for themselves. It will introduce participants to fresh food preparation, cooking for themselves, food safety and hygiene. In turn, it will enable young people to engage and interact with positive role models, develop their social skills, and provide them with independence. Importantly it will provide the youth with hospitality skills that can lead to employment opportunitiespart-time or full-time work. .

Achievements

• Developed participants work readiness, that improved their confidence to enter the work place, opening up employment opportunities
• Celebrated the achievements of all the young people involved in the program
• Increased independence and ability to provide healthy meals for themselves and their family and friends
• Engaged and interacted with positive role models in leadership positions
• Increased understanding and appreciation of the food, it’s background, the recipe and the culture it came from
• Learnt and shared recipes and cooking stories from participants' own cultural backgrounds