June 13th 2024.
As Pride Month approaches, it's important that we discuss a crucial topic within the hospitality industry. While cooking is a passion for chef Leo Niehorster, their experience working in a kitchen hasn't always been pleasant. As an LGBTQ+ person, navigating the hospitality sector can be complicated and challenging. Unfortunately, this remains a reality for many chefs and waiters in 2024.
Leo, who identifies as bisexual and non-binary, shares their story with The Agency. "I have struggled working as a chef in restaurants as an LGBTQ+ person. The issues in restaurant kitchens aren't just about being LGBTQ+, it's a lack of diversity in general," they explain. "Last summer, I worked in two restaurants and besides one other chef, everyone else was a straight white man. Being so different from everyone else in the kitchen was isolating and I didn't feel understood or supported."
For Leo, being LGBTQ+ is not just about their gender or sexuality, but also about how they navigate the world. They believe that the traditional restaurant industry needs to be "queered" in order to create a more inclusive environment. "We need representation, especially from LGBTQ+ leaders who are not afraid to challenge societal norms," Leo states.
Leo is not alone in their experiences. Alex Somerville-Large, a 26-year-old aspiring chef, also shares their thoughts on the industry. "My experiences in the hospitality industry have been mostly positive, especially where I currently work in a supportive environment," Alex, who identifies as gay, shares. "However, there is still a culture of 'kitchen banter' that often includes homophobic and sexist jokes, making it uncomfortable for LGBTQ+ individuals. Underrepresentation is also a major issue, as I have yet to meet another LGBTQ+ person in the industry."
But this Pride Month, there is hope for change. A new study by Deliveroo, in collaboration with Queers in Food and Beverage, has shed light on the reality for queer and trans individuals in the industry. The study found that 81% of LGBTQ+ workers have been the only openly queer person in their previous or current hospitality job. Additionally, only 56% feel comfortable being their true selves at work, and 61% would not feel confident entering a workplace where there is little representation of their community.
In response to these findings, Deliveroo has launched The Open Kitchen program, connecting aspiring LGBTQ+ chefs with mentors from the community to pass on valuable lessons and experiences. Rachel Rumbol, the founder of Queers in Food & Beverage, shares her own journey of feeling isolated in the industry. "Starting out as a commis chef in all-male kitchens, I felt like I had to hide my true self to fit in. But as I gained more experience, I found more LGBTQ+ individuals in female-run kitchens and realized the importance of creating a positive working culture," she explains.
Tim Vasilakis, the founder of The Athenian, also volunteers as a mentor for The Open Kitchen program. "Being a part of this movement shows that success and authenticity are not mutually exclusive. It's crucial for minority groups to have visible and positive role models to show that their dreams are attainable and that they have a valid place in this industry," Tim, who identifies as a gay man, states. "We must continue to push forward and ensure that the progress we've made is not lost, but expanded upon for future generations. The fight for equality requires our unwavering commitment."
To further support aspiring LGBTQ+ chefs, Deliveroo has created the Open Kitchen Fund, providing sponsorship for professional culinary training. Due to high demand, they have extended the fund to sponsor a total of six emerging chefs from the LGBTQ+ community. Applications can be submitted online.
As we celebrate Pride Month, let's continue to raise awareness and advocate for a more inclusive and diverse hospitality industry. Every individual deserves to feel seen, heard, and safe in their workplace, regardless of their gender or sexuality. Let's work towards a future where representation and acceptance are the norm. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch with The Agency by emailing [email address].
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