RISE Culinary Institute is a nonprofit based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to transforming the lives of refugee and immigrant women through the power of food, training, and community.
We provide free, hands-on culinary education and life skills training that helps women gain confidence, employment, and a sense of belonging. At RISE, the kitchen is more than a classroom, it’s a launchpad for self-worth, independence, and opportunity.
For many refugee and immigrant women, arriving in a new country means starting over, often alone, unseen, and under-resourced. Language barriers, lack of childcare, cultural norms, and economic instability make it difficult to pursue education or find meaningful work.
RISE was created to close that gap. We believe that every woman deserves the chance to thrive, not just survive.
Through culinary training rooted in cultural identity, mentorship, and job placement support, we help women reclaim their voice, their skills, and their future.
Our program offers:
Every graduate leaves with the skills to work in the food industry, or to start her own venture.
We serve established refugee and immigrant women living in Utah, women who are ready to grow but often left out of mainstream job training due to childcare, language, or transportation challenges.
Our participants come from countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, Congo, Ukraine, and Venezuela, bringing rich culinary traditions and stories to our kitchen. Many were entrepreneurs, teachers, or caretakers before displacement. At RISE, they rediscover what they’re capable of.
RISE is not just a training program, it’s a sisterhood, a celebration of culture, and a pathway to purpose.
Over 80% of graduates find employment or internships
Alumni go on to start food businesses or become mentors
Our community events and cultural days bring connection, visibility, and joy
Lavanya Mahate is an award-winning restaurateur, immigrant, and longtime advocate for women’s empowerment. After building a restaurant empire from a farmers market stand, she founded RISE to pass that opportunity forward, especially to women who, like her, started with nothing but a dream and determination.
Want to see the magic in action? Visit our kitchen.
Want to help it grow? Join us as a donor, mentor, or volunteer.
