First Annual Little Chef Cookout
Organized by the Mary K. Yap Foundation, the inaugural “Little Chef Cookout Festive” took center stage on December 25, 2023, at St. Francisco Xavier in Yangon, Myanmar.
Designed to uplift and empower orphaned children, the event marked an exciting new chapter in the Foundation’s growing range of community development initiatives. More than 50 children gathered to celebrate Christmas in a unique, heartwarming way—by becoming little chefs for the day. With 18 dedicated volunteers on site, coordinated by Orphanage Ambassador Meme Lwin, the atmosphere was filled with joy, creativity, and the comforting aroma of delicious food made by the children themselves.
The “Little Chef Cookout” was far more than just a cooking class—it was a powerful experience aimed at nurturing confidence, collaboration, and life skills in a safe and fun environment. Each child had the chance to take part in hands-on cooking activities, learning basic culinary techniques while also building soft skills like teamwork, communication, and time management. Working in small teams, they not only prepared dishes but also learned how to share responsibilities and express their ideas clearly. For many of them, this was a first-time experience in the kitchen, and the pride on their faces as they presented their food was a testament to the impact such programs can have.
Mentorship in Every Dish
# At the heart of the event was Ma Lay, a volunteer and mother of three, who brought both warmth and expertise to the day. As a champion from local culinary contests and a seasoned home cook, Ma Lay mentored the children with enthusiasm and patience, turning every moment into a teachable one. Her dedication and approachable style helped the children feel confident and supported as they navigated their culinary tasks. Under her guidance, the young participants not only learned how to cook but also gained a sense of discipline, creativity, and mutual respect—skills that will serve them well beyond the kitchen.
The “Little Chef Cookout” reflects the Mary K. Yap Foundation’s broader commitment to holistic youth development through joyful, skill-building experiences. By offering a platform that blends creativity with life education, the Foundation empowers orphaned children to see themselves as capable and valued contributors to their communities. Events like these, especially when tied to festive seasons, leave a lasting emotional imprint, reinforcing a sense of belonging, pride, and potential. As the first of its kind, the cookout sets the stage for future holiday-based initiatives—ones that continue to transform ordinary days into extraordinary opportunities for learning, bonding, and growth.
