Twelve years after its founding, Australia’s first social enterprise bakery, The Bread & Butter Project, has celebrated the graduation of its 120th baker trainee – a milestone that marks both growth and hope.

The Marrickville-based not-for-profit recently honoured 20 new refugee graduates, including 13 women from Afghanistan, at a ceremony held at Canva Space in Surry Hills. Many of these women have overcome extraordinary obstacles to rebuild their lives in Australia.

CEO Eva Rabanal said the 2025 cohort represented the power of opportunity.

“Their success is a testament to what can be achieved when compassion, practical training and meaningful employment combine. These women prove the transformative impact of education and work.”

Among them is Fatima, who fled Kabul in 2023 and has now secured employment with Woolworths Bakery.

“If I was in Afghanistan, I couldn’t study or work. Here, I can live my dreams,” she said.

Former graduate Samia Salhab, originally from Syria, now returns as a full-time trainer, leading Sourdough Sessions – a series of community baking classes that blend storytelling with skill-sharing.

Her journey, from refugee to teacher, captures the heart of The Bread & Butter Project’s mission: baking a better future for refugees through education, empowerment and employment.

Learn more or support the program at thebreadandbutterproject.com