Nourishing Community, One Meal at a Time
Free food, cultural connection, and community belonging — every week across Melbourne.
Food is identity. Food is culture. Food is care. AYC's food programs bring African youth and families together around shared meals, cultural celebration, and community support — from our Foods for Thought nutrition initiative to our free weekly Community BBQ days running Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
Food & Nutrition Programs
Our food programs go beyond feeding people — they build cultural pride, address food insecurity, and create the conditions for community connection and healing.
Foods for Thought
A community nutrition and food security initiative connecting African families with culturally appropriate food, cooking knowledge, and local food partners including Ahadu Ethiopian Restaurant and Kaldi's Cafe & Bar.
Foods for ThoughtAYC & Ethiopian Community
Celebrating Ethiopian culture, food, and community through events, gatherings, and cultural programs that honour heritage and strengthen identity for Ethiopian youth and families in Melbourne.
Ethiopian CommunityCommunity BBQ Days
Free, welcoming, and open to all — our Community BBQ program runs four days a week across Melbourne. Every session is a chance to share food, meet neighbours, and feel at home.
Community BBQ Program — Full Overview
Monday BBQ
BBQ from 1:00 pm · Family Games Night from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
View details
Come and Eat With Us
All of our food programs are free and open to everyone. No registration required — just show up, bring a friend, and share a meal.