By DANIELLE GALVIN
COMING to a new country with a different culture and way of life can be an isolating experience.
But for a group of African women living in Pakenham and Cardinia, a new cooking class is a social outlet which gives them a chance to make friends and learn about life in Australia.
Theresa Jones from CatholicCare is involved with running the classes from noon to 3pm on Wednesdays during the school term.
“The focus of the group is on cooking healthy food from a range of cuisines,” she said.
“Budgeting and shopping skills are a part of the group’s activities, all group activities happen in an atmosphere of friendship and support.”
The women have learnt how to make salad sandwiches, scones, pumpkin soup, El Salvadorian cuisine and Australian dishes.
The staff at CatholicCare started the group after they were told by local women that they wanted a place to make new friends and the feedback so far has been positive.
The women also go to the supermarket and pick out various items for the cooking classes to give them a chance to learn about the availability of produce and seasonal pricing.
One of the attendees, Bango, said she was looking forward to undertaking more activities including sewing and swimming with her new friends.
Childcare is provided and the group meets at 1 Rogers Street, Pakenham.
