Our Cooking School Students!

From left to right: Bejno Muree, Emebet Fanetye, Safiya Kabato, Tejitu Usha, Safaye Ababo

Last fall, we helped Selam Awassa Vocational School launch their women's program providing training in cooking and restaurant management.  With help from several generous donors, we are currently sponsoring 5 students in this inaugural session.While in Awassa last week, we met 'our girls' from the Kalo village area studying in the program. What a treasure these young women are!  The girls are learning skills in cooking, food preparation and presentation, and serving.  We checked out their test kitchen, and 'restaurant' area, where they daily prepare a delightful meal that could be served at a local restaurant or hotel.  Selam embraces the importance of teaching basic skills, but also cultivating a culture that values excellence and beauty.This was demonstrated in the meal and table presentation.
We spent time hearing from the girls how they felt when they began their program, what they were most excited about learning, and what plans they were considering when they are finished early this summer.  They shared their gratitude for the opportunity afforded them by the cooking school and those who are sponsoring them.

What was most impactful was the way the girls carried themselves as we interacted with them.  They emanated a sense of confidence uncommon to the rural villages they come from. They reflected a self-worth that comes from knowing they were created by a good God who loves them - whereas most of the impressions we get when meeting with people from the rural area communicates a downcast spirit.
Education is often lifted up as the key ingredient in leading developing nations to prosperity.  We share the belief with Selam that education and vocational training add great value to individuals and communities. Yet, Selam goes further than just passing on valuable skills - they instill in each student their inherent value which inspires them to dream of a better future. We are excited to introduce 'our girls' and begin to share their story with you.