Cooking for a Good Cause in Chiang Rai
- 2 April 2025
Nestled in the heart of Chiang Rai’s Mountains, our students from Thai Essential Cuisine had the unique opportunity to cook for a cause. They indeed prepared meals for the girls of the non-profit organization Friends of Thai Daughters. The fresh highland air inspired them to cook flavorful dishes featuring spicy chicken soup, vegetables, and crispy fried chicken wings. Besides, after sharing some food and laughs with the kids, our students embraced a teacher-like experience, leading an insightful – and delicious – Bua Loy workshop! Before leaving, they gifted the girls goodies and exclusive cooking tips from the Food School, ensuring the experience would remain beyond the day.
Empowering Thai Girls
Friends of Thai Daughters is a non-profit organization that provides help and support for Thai girls who are survivors of trauma. Supported by many sponsors, mainly from the U.S., the organization was founded by Jane F. and Patricia Zinkowski. In fact, a trip to Thailand had them deeply moved by the children’s vulnerability in the area. They thus felt compelled to take action and secure education and support for the girls. Indeed, human trafficking remains a critical issue in Thailand, especially in Chiang Rai. Thankfully, the girls supported through this programme are offered a new life, new opportunities and security.
Breaking Barriers Through Food
At the Food School, we believe that cooking brings people together. Over and above that, cooking and giving back goes beyond the kitchen, as sharing a meal creates bonds and fosters a sense of belonging. Therefore, by unifying backgrounds, cultures, techniques, generations, or regions, food break social barriers and create meaningful connections. Our students had front-row seats to the social power of food, working as a team to prepare a full meal for the girls, and then sharing their earned culinary skills during the workshop. The pleasure of the experience was mutual as everyone left with knowledge and warm memories.
Sharing food is the social spice of life.
A huge thanks to our students and Friends of Thai Daughters’ organization!
See more with our video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/620761974157667?locale=th_TH
