On Saturday, June 10, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 14 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. Food bank staff, family, friends and employers joined in the celebration to recognize each student’s achievements. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and gaining kitchen training similar to the curriculum of professional culinary institutions, students spend part of their days in the classroom, learning career and life skills to help them pursue entry-level food-industry jobs.
Chef Israel Santiago, lead instructor for the Culinary Training Program, delivered commencement remarks and inspired graduates to never stop learning.
“Learning never stops,” said Chef Israel. “Embrace new flavors. Face challenges head on. Adapt and think on your feet. Learn from mistakes. And, most importantly, let your passion for cooking fuel your drive and ambition.”
A former student, Bruce, shared his personal journey of rebuilding his life after several setbacks. A top student while in the program, always willing to learn and take initiative, Bruce decided to continue his education at a local college while working as a lead cook at a local nonprofit kitchen.
“This program is about more than kitchen skills and life skills, it’s about building a bright future,” Bruce said, giving credit to the program and instructors who gave him a solid foundation. “And this October, I’ll be promoted to kitchen supervisor.”
Program instructors recognized Breanna with the Top Student award. Throughout the program, Breanna was eager to learn, went above and beyond to soak up all that the program had to offer. When Breanna faced a challenge, her positive attitude helped her see it as a learning opportunity. Congratulations, Breanna!
Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program is celebrating its tenth anniversary of helping adults facing barriers to employment train for new, sustainable careers in the food service industry. Free to eligible students, the 16-week Culinary Training Program is an integral part of Second Harvest’s mission to fight hunger. Since 2013, 455 students have completed the course in pursuit of new careers in the food service industry, thanks to the support of community partners, financial supporters and local employers.
The Culinary Training Program is changing lives.
Online applications are available for the next class.
