Nadia Thrives in Australia, Serving Eid al-Fitr as a Career Choice
Published on: April 6, 2024.
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Nadia Khan, a Pakistani entrepreneur, is making waves in Australia’s food industry with her startup, Aliana Catering and Cuisine. Khan, who grew up in Karachi, faced social and family pressures that discouraged her from pursuing a career in her chosen field. However, since joining FoodLab Sydney, a social enterprise kitchen, she has found the support she needed to turn her dreams into reality.
From Karachi to Sydney
After coming to Australia as a refugee in 2016, Khan’s career ambitions have taken flight. At FoodLab Sydney, she has access to a fully-equipped commercial kitchen, which has allowed her to expand her catering business and prepare traditional dishes for the upcoming Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Khan’s specialty is biryani, a flavorful rice dish that is beloved in Pakistan.
Khan expresses her pride in being able to follow her passion in Australia, saying, “It gives me an opportunity to use an oven, stove, and all the necessary equipment. So, I’m very happy.” She credits her grandmother for teaching her the art of cooking biryani, and her family’s support has been instrumental in her success.
Celebrating Cultural Diversity
FoodLab Sydney is a social enterprise kitchen that supports budding entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, including migrants and refugees. Managed by Jamie Loveday, it offers affordable rental rates and a training program that provides advice and guidance in various aspects of the food industry, from menu design to cost analysis.
“FoodLab lowers the barriers to entry for those who are starting out in the food industry,” says Loveday. The project aims to address the gaps in support faced by food entrepreneurs, particularly those from migrant and refugee backgrounds.
A Platform for Success
The success stories at FoodLab Sydney are inspiring. Gayithri Sridhar, who migrated from Fiji, is another entrepreneur benefitting from the shared kitchen space. Her business, Gaia Tree, supports disadvantaged women by teaching them how to grow spices and earn an income. The reduced rent at FoodLab has allowed Sridhar to invest more in her online business.
The culinary incubator continues to attract more participants, and the team behind FoodLab Sydney hopes to expand further. Loveday invites those who are passionate about starting a food business, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to join the community and fill gaps in the market with their unique cuisines.
Nadia Khan’s ultimate goal is to expand her business into multiple branches, supplying big restaurants and outlets all over Australia, and even worldwide. With the support of her loving husband, she is determined to make her dreams come true.
Source: SBS
