Who would have thought a simple cake recipe could rebuild a life, a spoonful of sugar at a time? Yet, that’s exactly what happens at Chez Doris, thanks to our culinary pre-employment program.
Here, the kitchen isn’t just a workplace; it’s a space for healing and community. This program, which we started two years ago, offers much more than cooking skills. It rebuilds these women’s self-confidence and selfesteem—and most importantly, it instills immense pride in them. They are responsible for preparing meals for clients, a crucial task where they can see the tangible impact of their work.
As the saying goes, the secret is in the sauce, but the real magic ingredient in this program is made up of two exceptional women: Jackie and Alejandra. A close and collaborative duo whose complementary strengths contribute to each participant’s success.
Jackie : The kitchen boss, chef and mentor
Behind the stoves, Jackie reigns as a kindly teacher. She has chosen to swap the adrenalin of the restaurant for a far more precious role: passing on her knowledge with patience and humanity. She knows that every woman who pushes open the door of Chez Doris’ kitchen carries deep wounds. That’s why she adapts her teaching to the needs and realities of each one.
« Here, every little success is a victory, » she confides. « Whether it’s a homemade mayonnaise or a more complex recipe, every accomplishment, no matter how small, is a step closer to autonomy.»
Alejandra : The program’s fairy godmother
If Jackie is the kitchen’s boss, Alejandra is its fairy godmother. A passionate social worker, she ensures that every woman gets the most out of the experience. She knows exactly when to push a participant to overcome her fears and when, on the contrary, to take a step backwards.
« It’s a delicate balance between support and autonomy, » she explains. « Some women come here with heavy emotional baggage. They need a safe space where they can evolve at their own pace. »
In moments of doubt, she is there to encourage them, to remind them that they are capable, that they deserve a place, and above all, a better future.
A future built one recipe at a time
This program goes beyond the transformation of the six participants in each cohort; it also changes the way they see themselves. They discover patience, discipline, collaboration, and the joy of creating something with their own hands.
Some complete the program and then pursue further professional culinary training, finding jobs in the restaurant industry or related fields with newfound confidence. Today, one graduate works in our kitchen and another, who works elsewhere, returns to volunteer as a token of her appreciation for the support Chez Doris brought into her life. And it’s all thanks to a kitchen where not only meals are prepared, but also second chances.
Who would have thought a cake recipe could rebuild a life? Chez Doris knows: every ingredient counts, and so does every woman.
READ MORE ABOUT OUR NEWSLETTER
*Cover photo (from left to right): Alejandra, Béatrice, Jackie