CHEFS CLUB
Chefs Club is an entrepreneurship program supporting and accelerating economic empowerment opportunities for refugee and immigrant chefs.
While serving the refugee and immigrant community, RWN has identified that these individuals are enthusiastic and hopeful to build their new lives in their new homes. However, they are under tremendous pressure to adapt quickly and face high barriers to formal economic entry and self-sufficiency. Lack of resources, businesses structures, networks, and funding often prevent refugee and women entrepreneurs from formalizing their businesses.
Despite these challenges, they have this valuable asset: their vast knowledge of age-old cooking recipes and techniques. Many of them are accomplished chefs and have a keen interest to venture into the food industry, some starting unofficial home businesses without the necessary support or infrastructure for long-term success. These talented women deserve an opportunity to build successful businesses and a community to create connections across demographic and linguistic divides.
We turn dreams into goals and goals into reality.
Chefs Club with Patti Garrett, Mayor of Decatur
Chefs Club at Emory University Farmers Market
Chefs Club at ServSafe Certification Workshop
We offer a structured incubator environment.
Chefs Club helps participants formalize, grow, and sustain their food-based businesses with industry-specific technical support, guided market access, affordable commercial kitchen space, and a variety of additional wraparound services.
We guide our chefs through: relevant business licensure, including ServSafe certification; businesses planning, formalization, and development; English language support; mentorship with industry experts and peer supports; financial literacy, including credit and asset building and micro-business resources; and access to catering and market opportunities for income generation.
The ultimate goal is for Chefs Club entrepreneurs to formalize their businesses and graduate to retail spaces, restaurants, and other brick-and-mortar dreams catered to their businesses.
Dozens of community organizations and well-established companies choose to cater with Chefs Club again and again. We are known for our deliciously authentic food with over 50 active chefs spanning 18 countries of origin and over 13 languages, hundreds of markets attended, and $180k+ in income generated for the entrepreneurs.
Shared Kitchen
Chefs Club transformed a decades-out-of-use facility into a fully equipped commercial kitchen where our network of trained chefs can schedule and rent kitchen space at an affordable rate. Our chefs now have the means to cater to larger orders and expand their income potential, benefitting themselves and their families.
Catering
Whether you have a social gathering, corporate event, or celebration, Chefs Club has you covered.
Drop-Off package
Deluxe package
Business Package
Feedback
Jane Goodall enjoyed Chefs Club food and connected with our mission to empower women through business opportunities. She was a fan of our hummus and said that the falafel was the best she’d ever had!
“From start to finish everything was beyond any expectation. Dining family-style created the perfect atmosphere for our event. People all over the room were talking about how delicious each dish was. Who needs a centerpiece when the food is so fragrant and beautiful!” -Memorial Drive Ministries, 250 people served
“I can’t thank Chefs Club enough for the incredible care brought to the event. The congregation couldn’t stop raving about the delicious food, but even more, they were moved by the remarkable mission of RWN. It was inspiring for everyone to see firsthand the impact Chefs Club is making.” -St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 100 people served
“The menu was diverse, offering a fantastic selection of delicious dishes for a variety of tastes and dietary restrictions. The catering setup was stunning, incorporating subtle decorations and touches that made the entire experience feel cohesive and elegant. Chef’s Club helped make our son’s brit mitzvah a truly memorable occasion. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a top-notch catering for a special event.” -Lubell Coaching, 75 people served
“Thank you so so much! The food was a big hit with our students! Everyone absolutely loved everything the chefs made! Chefs Club is wonderful to work with.” -Emory Center for Ethics, 100 people served
“Everything was perfect! We had a great celebration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” -CDF, 50 people served
“Everything was absolutely delicious, and the attention to detail and flawless coordination made a huge difference. Thank you for nourishing our guests with such care, the food was not only beautifully prepared but also deeply appreciated by everyone.” -Afghan American Alliance of Georgia, 300 people served
Connect with our chefs
Breshna has been an inspiring Chefs Club chef since 2024. A mother of four and originally from Afghanistan, Breshna has become one of Chefs Club’s most popular and sought-after chefs for her exceptional cooking, dedication, and warm hospitality. Her commitment to excellence and rapid learning have earned her a place as a lead Chefs at the Decatur Farmers Market, where she sells out nearly every week! Breshna has also participated in over 50 markets and more than 20 catering events, and she is a regular presence at RWN fundraisers and large events.
Breshna’s journey is a testament to resilience and ambition. Despite the challenges of resettlement, she continues to pursue her dream of owning her own food business and venue. Her unwavering determination and passion have made her a role model within the refugee and culinary communities. Breshna Alemi is living proof of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.
Duaa, originally from Damascus, Syria, arrived in Atlanta in October 2024 and joined the Chef’s Club, where she is known for her delicious baklava and creative food presentation. Through the Refugee Women’s Network, she is currently enrolled in English classes to feel more independent and confident. Duaa hopes to stay actively involved with the Chef’s Club and has a goal of one day opening her own business.
Safaa, originally from Syria, has been living in Atlanta since mid-2023 and joined the Chef’s Club in the summer of 2024. She is a cherished member of the kitchen, especially loved for her excellent hummus and dolma. The Chef’s Club has made it possible for her to earn an income while raising her six children, and she is deeply grateful for the opportunity to grow and support her family.
Meryem joined Chefs Club in 2023 and quickly became known as the Queen of the Samosa. A devoted mother of two, she was born and raised in Ethiopia and came to the United States in 2010. Her signature dish, the lentil samosa, has become the most requested item by Chefs Club clients and customers alike. Whether at the Decatur Farmers Market, Trucking Tuesday, or local festivals, her samosas are always a hit! Another standout dish is her flavorful beet and lentil soup, which has gained a loyal following.
Beyond her incredible food, Meryem is known for her reliability, punctuality, and generosity. At every major Chefs Club event, she consistently demonstrates leadership and care, especially toward new chefs, earning her widespread respect from her peers. Meryem’s compassion extends beyond the kitchen; for example, she once asked to be paid less for an event supporting Muslim youth simply to show her support for the cause. A true leader, a talented chef, and a role model in her community, Meryem Ali continues to inspire through both her food and her spirit.