Connecting Youth Through Food: Highlights from Our Summer Camp with Africadian Empowerment Academy
This summer, the Halifax Convention Centre proudly teamed up with the Africadian Empowerment Academy to deliver a vibrant summer camp experience, bringing local youth into the heart of a professional kitchen and community service.
Over three energetic days—July 25th, 29th, and 30th—Sous Chef Charmaine Roma took the lead in guiding the summer camp, supported by many of our talented culinary staff who all played an important role mentoring more than 30 youth from HRM. Together, they created an environment full of hands-on learning, creativity, and teamwork.
Each day began with a welcome snack and a safety briefing featuring illustrated handouts. After donning aprons and hair coverings, the participants, aged 12 to 19, eagerly dove into a variety of hands-on tasks. Customizable activities were a big hit, sparking pride and enthusiasm, while “micro activities” like fridge tours, chocolate tastings, and freight elevator rides added fun surprises throughout the day.
The participants’ energy and teamwork shone as they prepared food, explored new flavors, and got a real taste of professional kitchen life—many even expressing interest in culinary careers.
Beyond the kitchen, the camp made a meaningful community impact.
Each day, prepared meals were donated to local organizations through Second Harvest to support those in need, including the Salvation Army, the Daily Bread Catholic Mission, and Eastern Passage Food Security. Over three days, more than 500 meals, and over 800 pounds of food, were donated to our community with the help of Africadian campers.
The Africadian Empowerment Academy camp at the Convention Centre was more than a culinary workshop; it was a powerful opportunity for youth empowerment, mentorship, and community connection. We are proud of Sous Chef Charmaine Roma, our team, and the young participants who brought passion and dedication to every moment.
"This was a perfect opportunity to show local youth that cooking can be a valuable and satisfying career option, especially with our talented team and beautiful kitchen. My fingers are crossed that in a few years some of these youth will be our new co-workers! Watching the youth find the spice shelf and experience new flavour combinations reminded me why I started doing this almost 30 years ago and why I still love it."
— Sous Chef Charmaine Roma, Halifax Convention Centre
At the Halifax Convention Centre, we are committed to creating experiences that inspire growth and strengthen community bonds. We look forward to more collaborations like this one where food, learning, and kindness come together to make a difference.