SKP: Culinary Training for Refugees in Athens

As we embark on our sixth culinary training session of culinary training with IEK Delta, we are thrilled to share the immense success we have achieved thus far and our commitment to its continuation. To date we have had 250 applications and have been able to offer places to 75 people, with the next 15 currently going through the interview process. We have had 300 hours of training, held 5 graduation parties, all of our graduates received the EOPPEP certification and also individual CV and employment workshops to help them be job ready. Over half of graduates looking for work have found jobs within Greece. 

For  further insight into what the training offers please allow us to introduce Kimuli, a former SKP employee who not only attended our culinary training but also experienced firsthand the transformative impact of our classes;

What motivated you to pursue a culinary training course?

I decided to enroll for the culinary training class because I wanted to deepen my cooking abilities and learn all about the ins and outs of working in a professional kitchen. My main aim was to broaden my culinary skills and get a real grasp on different techniques and practices used in the world of culinary arts. I was eager to dive further into the culinary world as I was at the beginning of a new career. 

What was your favourite thing you learned at the training?

One aspect of the culinary training that I particularly enjoy is learning how to effectively utilize the space in the kitchen and efficiently manage my time. It has been a valuable experience for me to understand the importance of optimizing kitchen layout and organization, something that is often faced in small fast paced professional kitchens. As well as honing my time management skills, vital to any chef working to order. 

How did the culinary training course contribute to your overall culinary knowledge and skill development?

The IEK training course significantly contributed to my overall culinary knowledge and skill development in several ways. One aspect that stood out was the integration with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. This exposure allowed me to appreciate and understand different culinary traditions, techniques, and flavors. In particular, the opportunity to learn how to cook Greek dishes was really exciting, it allowed me to not only expand my repertoire of recipes but also provided me with a new insight on Greek culture and traditions. The CV and employability assistance I received after helped me feel well rounded and ready for all and any work experiences. 

Were there any memorable experiences or highlights from the training course that you would like to mention?

During the training course, one of the most memorable experiences for me was learning how to bake bread. It was a highlight that stands out in my culinary journey as it was the first time for me to try something like this. It gave me a real sense of achievement. 

In retrospect, what were the most valuable aspects of the culinary training course for you personally and professionally?

The culinary training course has provided me with valuable personal and professional benefits. It has given me a sense of confidence, allowing me to proudly declare myself as a chef. This newfound confidence has significantly increased my employment opportunities, particularly as a refugee in Greece, where the tourism industry plays a crucial role. I believe the certificate I have received will open opportunities for me wherever I go to find work and for this I am very grateful to have had this opportunity while I was working and developing my career. 

Dear Friends,

We’re excited to be preparing for our fifth culinary training course here at SKP. So far we’ve provided 240 hours of training and have 58 certified graduates - we’d like to say a huge congratulations to them all, for their hard work and commitment throughout the program! 

Offering this free culinary training is one of the cornerstones of our work at SKP. We work in partnership with the Greek learning centre IEK Delta, giving vulnerable people and refugees access to certified training that will aid them in entering the local job market in order to build a sustainable livelihood and integrate into the local community. 

In April 2023, unemployment in Greece reached 11.20%. This number is higher than the EU average, with refugees facing extra challenges due to obstacles such as language barriers, and the lack of connection to the local job market, among others. The training they receive through us helps to remove some of the obstacles, aiding them in building a new life.

After completing their training we support our graduates in writing their CVs and in their search for work, and we’re proud to say that almost half of them are now successfully in employment. We look forward to seeing how their careers in cooking progress! Our next course begins in early October, and we’ve already received lots of enquiries from potential students wishing to sign up.

We’d like to thank you all for your support and generosity, without which none of this would be possible!

With love and solidarity,

The SKP Team