Second Chance Kitchen is Plate It Forward’s evidence-based response to the employment barriers faced by youth in contact with the justice system. Over six weeks, some of the best-in-class chefs partner with us to deliver hospitality training to young people in detention. Each chef teaches how to cook one of their signature dishes—like Dan Hong’s famous dumplings—providing vital skills in food handling, cooking, and kitchen operations. This hands-on experience helps motivate and inspire youth, increasing their employability post-release and connecting them with job opportunities.

In 2023, over 800 young people in Australia were in the juvenile justice system on an average night, with NSW holding the second-highest number of youth in detention. Jobseekers, especially young people post-release, face multiple barriers in securing employment. With less experience, they are at higher risk of rejection from basic, entry-level jobs. Research shows that meaningful engagement with employment and education opportunities significantly reduces reoffending.