Introduction
In under-resourced communities, ensuring a balanced and healthy meal can be a challenge for various reasons, including affordability and a lack of information on nutritious food preparation. The Seriti Institute‘s aRe Bapaleng programme, a key initiative of the Social Employment Fund (SEF), focuses on educating and promoting good nutrition in early childhood development.
Empowering nutrition champions
Integral to this programme is the integration of SEF participants as Nutrition Champions. These champions, selected from the 136 Caregiver Networkers, are tasked with producing fresh produce and sharing knowledge on food and nutrition in their communities. They educate parents and caregivers on proper food preparation practices and contribute to local daycare centres, child-headed households, and the elderly.
Spotlight on culinary potential
Rebecca Twala, a supervisor for SEF in Bela-Bela Limpopo, identified culinary potential in some participants while they assisted her with a catering business. Recognising their passion, Rebecca helped them to apply for a cooking competition hosted by the Sondela Academy. This side hustle provided additional income for participants from underprivileged backgrounds.
Scholarship opportunities
The competition offered a chance for applicants to showcase their cooking skills, with fully funded scholarships for an Occupational Certificate Chef NQF 07 at stake. Out of five applicants from the SEF programme, three – Thato Montja, Neo Radebe, and Elizabeth Mmoseja – secured the scholarships. Their passion for cooking, initially inspired by family members and nurtured through SEF’s training, earned them the opportunity to get a chef qualification with 36 months of workplace experience.
Sustainable exit pathway
This scholarship is evidence of a sustainable exit pathway for young participants, equipping them with the skills to grow successful culinary careers. By combining their culinary passion with the SEF’s support and aRe Bapaleng’s empowerment initiatives, these participants are not only enhancing their own lives but also contributing to the wellbeing of their communities.
