Cooking Up Second Chances: 13 Graduates Begin Their Next Chapter

On Saturday, November 3, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 13 students from its Culinary Training Program during a graduation ceremony. Food bank staff, family, friends and employers joined the celebration to recognize each student’s achievements. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and gaining kitchen training similar to that of professional culinary institutions, students spend part of their days in the classroom, acquiring career and life skills to help them pursue entry-level jobs in the food industry.

Finding Purpose: Kalei’s Journey from Kitchen Curiosity to Culinary Career

Kalei never set out with a specific goal to become a chef, but as she reflects, it’s clear how each experience pulled her closer to the kitchen. Whatever she ended up doing, her goal was to be successful. Her passion for cooking ignited at the tender age of five, standing side by side with her dad. Shared meals became their special bond, an early spark that only grew brighter.

I’m a Professional: Carmen’s Story

Carmen is guided by fate. When she was looking to reenter the workforce, she applied to Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program. 

“Why not? Maybe it’s for me,” Carmen says as she reflects on her initial interest and application. After all, she had prior experience working in food service. Enrolling in the program felt like a natural step after taking time away from her career to raise her family.

Yaideliz’s Culinary Journey

Yaideliz’s culinary journey began in her grandparents’ kitchen, where she helped her grandfather prepare meals. Here, she first learned to cook, receiving early exposure to food that would eventually lead her to the doors of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s Culinary Training Program. Yaideliz’s journey was not without its hurdles. One of her most significant challenges in the program was learning to let go of her old cooking habits. However, she didn’t give up. She persevered, adapting her style to meet professional standards and learning new culinary techniques.