Cafe trains refugees, trafficking survivors in D.C. kitchen

WASHINGTON (Aging Untold) — Emma’s Torch is a cafe and culinary school in Washington, D.C., that trains refugees, exiles and survivors of human trafficking.

Students at the cafe learn food preparation skills under timed kitchen conditions as part of their training.

On-the-job training

Students work through timed exercises such as julienne cutting chicken, with instructors telling them to have dishes “up by 10 minutes.”

Kerry Brodie founded the social justice nonprofit. The program lasts about 11 weeks and runs 40 hours a week.

“And that’s where our students are learning things like self-advocacy, English classes, resume crafts, interview prep, all of those things that are outside the kitchen,” Brodie said.

Brodie said 500 students have graduated from the program and 90% have jobs.

Rebuilding after loss

Nico came to the U.S. to rebuild his life.

He said he came to the United States with his two children and Emma’s Torch welcomed him and gave him new purpose.

“I learn new skills to know how to cook the best dishes in the world,” Nico said.

Nico said the program represents a second chance.

“You can begin a new life. You can believe in yourself,” Nico said.

Named for Emma Lazarus

The organization is named after Emma Lazarus, who wrote the words inscribed at the base of the Statue of Liberty: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

Brodie described Lazarus as one of the unsung heroes of Jewish history and said the organization is meant to be a testament to that sentiment.