About.
01
Creating Employment Success
02
Providing Culturally Appropriate Food Relief
03
Changing Industry Thinking
Our Story.
Meals with Impact is the brainchild of experienced Chef, Harris Ryan and Community Development Specialist, Nikki Blanch who witnessed first-hand the limitations of Victoria’s food relief system in providing culturally appropriate food during the pandemic.
Over 12 months they facilitated a local government program dedicated to creating culturally relevant food relief for local communities, whilst providing employment opportunities to women from migrant and refugee backgrounds . During this process however, they soon realised the issue was beyond adequate food relief, it was about addressing the systemic barriers women from these communities were facing in accessing good jobs in Australia.
“Too often, their incredible skills are overlooked. They speak multiple languages, they are resilient and adaptable, and compassionate and kind due to their migration experiences.
They are also incredible cooks with a rich tradition and culture to share. Our aim is that all future employers will recognise what an asset they are to any organisation.”
Together with our partners and supporters, they’ve now created a work-integrated social enterprise (WISE) that employs women from migrant & refugee backgrounds to co-design and produce culturally appropriate meals tailored for food relief and to the wider community.
Our Impact.
We’re a passionate team of everyday people that love to share our stories, our experiences and build connections through our love of food.
Watch our latest video to find out more about what we do.
Our Mission.
To empower women from migrant and refugee backgrounds to find and maintain employment through the delivery of inclusive work integrated training. We provide above award paid employment combined with on the job training in our cafe, food relief services and catering business. We also provide support for participants to transition to mainstream employment.
Our Vision.
For all women of migrant and refugee backgrounds to have equitable opportunities for meaningful work free of discrimination and marginalisation, to contribute to industries facing significant skill shortages.
Work-Integrated Training
We believe in the power of ‘learning by doing’, which is why we focus on breaking through barriers by providing a nurturing work environment that integrates training within work.
Our model is based on a ‘paid to work’ model, a supported 3 to 6 month program offering women from migrant and refugee backgrounds an opportunity to learn invaluable hands-on skills and gain the confidence to further their employment pathways.
