Restaurant Associates recently collaborated with the amazing SisterWorks who offer employment and entrepreneurship support for migrant, refugee and asylum seeker women. They do this through tailored vocational and small business training programs, and their partnerships with companies like Restaurant Associates.
Our collaboration has led to the placement of one of their program participants, Ingrid, in the hospitality team at our corporate client site. Find out more about SisterWorks and the wonderful Ingrid below.
How did SisterWorks support you in finding your role?
SisterWorks is a place where I will be forever grateful and that holds a special
place in my heart. When I arrived in Australia, I didn’t know where to start looking
for a job opportunity because I lacked confidence in my English and had no
experience in the country. When I started attending the hospitality course at
SisterWorks, I felt at home as I met many women who had experienced, or were
experiencing, the same situation as mine with inspiring stories. I had almost three
months of training during which I learned a lot about the hospitality industry.
That was enough time to develop a love for the field and completely change my career path, as I had previously worked for six years as a quality control assistant in the oil and gas industry in Brazil. During and after completing the course, I had full support from the Sisters to find a job opportunity in the field, which was crucial in securing my current job with Restaurant Associates.
What was the process like?
The process of finding a job that suited my profile was quite fast because I had the full support of SisterWorks. When I started the recruitment process at Compass Group (Restaurant Associates) some key stages of the selection process required the knowledge I had gained at SisterWorks. The interview stages tested my understanding of safe cooking practices, allergy and intolerance procedures and, most importantly, how to provide high quality customer service—essential requirements that Restaurant Associates values highly and maintains as part of its quality standards.
What is your role at the Restaurant Associates site?
Currently I work as a Catering Assistant and my role is divided between two environments. Two days a week I work in the kitchen assisting the chefs with preparations for functions and other tasks for the café at the client site. On the other three days, I work in customer service at the café preparing sandwiches, taking customer orders, organising displays, and ensuring cleaning and sanitation procedures are followed.
What do you like most about working in hospitality/this role?
Having the opportunity to work in both settings has been an enriching experience because I have learned a lot about the procedures that maintain our quality
standards and ensure excellent service. Being in this position allows me to see the entire process, from food preparation to receiving feedback from our customers.
It is difficult to choose just one thing I love most about working in this field because hospitality has so many great aspects. In this industry, no two days are the same— every day you meet people with unique stories, face new challenges, and gain daily learning experiences. Another aspect I love about my current job is working with such a wonderful and united team at site. All the chefs are incredibly attentive and patient, always teaching me something new and putting in great effort to support me. The kitchen is always a fun and lighthearted environment, even during the busiest moments.
At our café, I am also expanding my knowledge about coffee. We have expert baristas who always take the time to explain the different types of coffee we receive from our suppliers. This knowledge allows us to offer a better experience to our customers.
My advice for Our Sisters:
Working in the hospitality industry goes far beyond having perfect English. Of course, speaking the language helps, but the most important thing is your attitude. Being open to learning, taking advantage of every growth opportunity, and continuously developing yourself will make all the difference.
Being welcoming, smiling, and kind creates connections and transforms any environment. Organisation, punctuality, dedication, dynamism, pro-activity, and resilience are essential qualities. But above all, don’t be afraid. The fact that English is not your first language does not define your ability. You have so much more to offer. Your effort, willingness to learn, and commitment to doing your best are what truly matter.
Find out more about SisterWorks here.
