Sakeena banu syed abdul salam - cook

When did you join ChangeKitchen CIC and what do you do here?

I joined ChangeKitchen CIC in April 2023. During my time here, I work as a chef and catering assistant. My responsibilities included preparing and serving vegetarian and vegan food at community events, managing the café, handling customer orders, and ensuring hygiene standards were consistently met.

What do you do now?

At ChangeKitchen, I currently work as a chef, managing the team, and work in our café when we get busy. I also assist with catering setups, and contribute to the welcoming atmosphere that reflects the organisation’s social and inclusive values.

What’s the highlight of your day at ChangeKitchen CIC?

Creating delicious, wholesome meals while connecting with the community through sustainable, plant-based food.

What makes you smile at work?

Seeing the joy on people’s faces—especially when we serve free meals to those in need—always makes me smile at work.

How do you think ChangeKitchen CIC makes a difference to the local community?

ChangeKitchen CIC supports the community by serving free, nourishing meals using surplus food—striking a vital balance between reducing waste and feeding those who are hungry. It promotes dignity, sustainability, and care through every plate.

What’s your proudest moment at ChangeKitchen CIC?

My proudest moment at ChangeKitchen CIC was leading a busy service where we catered a community of 200 people entirely with surplus food—watching kids and family enjoy the meals, while bringing joy and nourishment to the community was truly rewarding.

What’s would/is be your ‘random act of kindness’?

My random act of kindness is sharing a simple smile with someone who needs it most because small gestures can brighten even the toughest days.

What do you do to relax?

I like to unwind by listening to music or taking photographs outdoors, watching the clouds drift by to clear my mind.