When OzHarvest founder Ronni Kahn AO came to us saying she had a big event with chefs and needed jackets galore, we said: ‘we’ve got you’. From the very beginning of OzHarvest, we’ve dressed budding chefs through what has been a touching collaboration.
OzHarvest’s Nourish is a hospitality training program created for vulnerable youth between 16-25. It welcomes participants into the OzHarvest kitchen with the intention to give them life skills and a certification—so that they can leave with more than experience, but a skillset and a pathway.
Ronni has a big heart and giving spirit—to see our chef jackets become part of her cause has been an incredible experience. “These are kids that have never had a successful learning career, they’ve been kicked out of school and have no role models,” she explains.
More than a Jacket
The purpose of a uniform is to instil confidence through professionalism and inspire a sense of belonging in the beholder. With the support of renowned chefs like Anna Polyviou, Manu Feildel, Niel Perry and Peter Gilmore being supporters of OzHarvest, Ronni has created a successful and truly life changing program through Nourish.
So much more than just a jacket, the uniforms helped all who take part in the OzHarvest Nourish program to look and feel professional. “The first thing they get is their jacket and that’s the first time anyone has given them anything to make them feel like they belong,” Ronni continues.
Who Does OzHarvest Help?
OzHarvest helps those who need a fresh start—young people facing barriers to education and employment, individuals experiencing food insecurity, and communities doing it tough. Nourish is the most extraordinary program that shows how, with an incredible cause, some jackets and a bit of will, it is human nature to take opportunity, nurture it, nourish it and rise to the top.
From the Source: The impact of OzHavest's Nourish Program
Whether it’s by volunteering, donating food, or providing chef uniforms, being part of OzHarvest’s Nourish program is a powerful reminder of the difference small acts can make.
For Nourish graduate Karis, participating in the program was so much more than just that, it was about meeting a family. “No matter if I graduated or not, they unconditionally were there to support me and I just felt loved. This program is life-changing, and I really do believe in it.”
