Championing Diversity in the Culinary Industry
The hospitality industry has long struggled with representation, particularly for LGBTQIA+ professionals. In response, Deliveroo has launched The Open Kitchen, an initiative designed to provide mentorship and professional development for aspiring LGBTQIA+ chefs. This program not only nurtures talent but also promotes inclusivity in commercial kitchens, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed and supported.
Addressing Underrepresentation in Hospitality
Recent surveys highlight a pressing issue: 64% of LGBTQIA+ hospitality workers feel that representation within the industry is insufficiently discussed. Even more striking, 81% have been the only openly LGBTQIA+ individual in their workplace at some point, while 61% report discomfort entering environments where their community is underrepresented. These statistics underscore the importance of initiatives like The Open Kitchen, which aim to create a more inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ chefs to thrive.
The Open Kitchen: A Transformative Opportunity
Deliveroo’s Open Kitchen offers hands-on training led by seasoned professionals from LGBTQIA+-owned restaurants, including The Athenian and Nanny Bill’s. Over a two-day immersive experience in London, aspiring chefs receive mentorship, master culinary techniques, and prepare signature dishes such as:
- The Athenian’s Chicken Gyros Wrap and Courgette Fritters
- Nanny Bill’s Dalston Dip and Aggy Fries
These dishes are then made available for public purchase via Deliveroo, allowing the chefs to showcase their talents while contributing to a broader mission of representation.
Collaboration with Queers in Food & Beverage
A key partnership in this initiative is with Queers in Food & Beverage (QIFB), a network dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals in the hospitality sector. Founded by Rachel Rumbol, QIFB connects aspiring chefs with valuable resources and opportunities to advance their careers. Through this collaboration, Deliveroo ensures that The Open Kitchen is not just a short-term project but a meaningful step toward long-lasting industry change.
The Open Kitchen Fund: Investing in LGBTQIA+ Talent
Beyond training and mentorship, Deliveroo has introduced The Open Kitchen Fund, a financial initiative aimed at providing scholarships and culinary training sponsorships for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Revenue generated from The Open Kitchen restaurant sales will directly support this fund, with Deliveroo matching total sales as an additional donation. In its first year, the fund will sponsor five LGBTQIA+ individuals, empowering them to pursue professional culinary careers.
Application Process
Aspiring chefs can apply for The Open Kitchen Fund by completing an application form. Selected candidates will receive funding to enroll in a culinary training program of their choice, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. The deadline for applications is June 12th, and successful candidates will be notified soon after.
Industry Leaders Advocate for Change
Prominent figures in the culinary world have voiced their support for The Open Kitchen:
- Tim Vasilakis, Founder & CEO of The Athenian, emphasized the importance of fostering a safe and inclusive work environment for LGBTQIA+ professionals.
- Jade Simpson, Head of Operations at Nanny Bill’s, highlighted the significance of mentorship in inspiring the next generation of culinary talent.
These endorsements reinforce the initiative’s commitment to cultivating a more diverse and welcoming hospitality industry.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Lasting Change
Deliveroo’s Open Kitchen represents a bold step forward in addressing LGBTQIA+ underrepresentation in the culinary sector. By combining mentorship, professional development, and financial support, this initiative is poised to make a lasting impact, empowering LGBTQIA+ chefs to thrive in an industry that has historically overlooked their contributions. Through continued collaboration with organizations like Queers in Food & Beverage, Deliveroo is setting a new standard for inclusivity in hospitality.
As the Open Kitchen Fund grows, we anticipate seeing even greater advancements in diversity and representation across the food industry. This is more than just a Pride Month initiative—it’s a movement toward meaningful, long-term change.