Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching the Choice program grow into something truly special. In its humble beginnings, it was just me offering a group cooking lesson once a week while I was still working full-time as a chef. I quickly saw the need for more—people weren’t just looking for someone to help them cook or meal prep, they were also after a community and a sense of belonging. That’s when I made the decision to leave my job as a chef and become a support worker, specializing in cooking.
Since then, the program has grown into so much more. We now offer a range of services, from group cooking lessons and one-on-one sessions to my personal favourite—the monthly Community BBQ, Which we host on the last Friday of every month and all of our participants are invited to come along and share a meal together.
Each service we offer has been designed to bring people together, not just to share food but to build connections and create lasting memories. It’s been incredible to witness how something as simple as cooking can open the door to meaningful conversations and a sense of community.
The Conversations That Happen Over a Meal
One of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been the conversations that naturally unfold during the cooking process. As people chop, stir, and prepare meals together, they start to share stories—memories of family dinners, favorite dishes from childhood, or special moments connected to food. These conversations build bonds between participants, and I’m constantly reminded of how powerful food can be in bringing people together. It's not just about cooking; it's about creating a space where people feel comfortable, supported, and connected.
Growing and Building Communities
As I reflect on how far we’ve come, I feel incredibly hopeful about the future. Choice has always been intentional about being more than just another service provider; they’ve consistently focused on building communities and truly supporting people in their everyday lives. As we expand our offerings, particularly within the disability and aged care sectors, I see even more opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s helping someone tailor meals to their dietary needs or simply offering a friendly ear during a cooking session, I believe our program has the potential to change lives.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
Looking back on this journey fills me with gratitude. I’m thankful for the people we’ve met, the communities we’ve built, and the meals we’ve shared. The connections we’ve fostered through cooking have been a source of joy and inspiration for me. And as we look ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come. I’m hopeful for the new people we’ll meet and the new opportunities to grow and make an even bigger impact. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see how Choice continues to evolve and enrich more lives.
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