‘Rén’ – the transliteration of 人 – embodies both ‘humanity’ and ‘kindness’, values that lie at the heart of the Rén community. More than just sustenance, food serves as a universal language of love, connecting people through shared experiences, joy, and lasting memories. Passed down through generations, it’s a vital art form, a reflection of our ancestors and the bonds we share.
Rén is dedicated to empowering disadvantaged youth in Hong Kong by equipping them with resources and opportunities to train in exclusive kitchens. This nurturing environment helps them grow, build confidence, and pursue their culinary passions, creating a pathway toward a brighter future. Beyond the kitchen, Rén collaborates with local brands to create products like candles and specialty foods, fostering community growth and spreading love with every interaction.
We’re proud to celebrate Rén’s impactful mission and share their inspiring stories, showcasing how food can nourish not just the body but also the soul.
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Success Story: Toeby And Chef Chris Czerwinski Of Soho House
Toeby always dreamed of following in his father’s footsteps to become a chef, despite challenges from a difficult family situation. Thanks to Rén’s support and his unwavering passion, he secured a shadowing opportunity with Heimat’s Chef Peter Find. Impressed by Toeby’s determination and performance, Chef Find gave glowing feedback and referred him to Soho House’s Executive Chef Chris Czerwinski for mentorship.
Landing his first full-time job was both thrilling and daunting for Toeby. As a non-English speaker with no prior experience in a Western kitchen, he faced significant hurdles. However, the welcoming and supportive team helped him build confidence – not only in his cooking but also in his English skills. Their guidance allowed him to express himself and communicate with greater ease.
Chef Chris praised Toeby’s eagerness to learn, calling his passion a rare gem in the industry. At just 17, Toeby started in Soho House’s prep kitchen but constantly sought opportunities to prove himself. He would slip into the kitchen during service hours, hungry to learn more. His enthusiasm was so strong that he counted down the days to his 18th birthday, eagerly awaiting his chance to work in the expo kitchen. Toeby’s journey showcases how the right resources and opportunities can empower individuals to thrive and fulfill their potential – exactly the kind of impact Rén aims to have on the community.
Success Story: Samuel And Chef Olivier Elzer Of Clarence
Samuel, living with autism and an intellectual disability, faced significant barriers in navigating life in Hong Kong. The prospect of finding employment seemed like a distant dream, and the city often felt overwhelming. But everything changed when Rén entered his life. Rén provided more than just support; it became a lifeline, offering hope. Through its partnership with Shine, a vocational training programme associated with the VTC Group, Samuel began building a foundation for his future.
One of the key turning points was his introduction to Chef Olivier Elzer, a longtime supporter of the organisation. Impressed by Samuel’s enthusiasm, Chef Olivier offered him an opportunity at his renowned French restaurant, Clarence. Stepping into the world of fine dining was no small feat. Samuel had to learn the intricacies of French service and adjust to a new social environment. The process wasn’t easy, but with the encouragement of his colleagues and the guidance of Chef Olivier, Samuel thrived. He developed essential skills like table setting and order management, gaining both confidence and competence. Most importantly, he found a sense of purpose and financial independence, opening doors to a brighter future.
Chef Advocate: Casa Cucina’s Executive Chef Anthony Cheung
For Rén’s recent ‘Food + Film’ campaign, a unique collaboration brought together three talented chefs: Anthony Cheung of Casa Cucina, and Camille Moënne-Loccoz and Dominique Yau from Plumcot. Inspired by the whimsical world of Wes Anderson’s ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’, they crafted a one-night-only menu that mirrored the film’s aesthetic and poignant themes.
Deeply influenced by Anderson’s storytelling, Chef Anthony, himself, found parallels between the film’s narrative and his own journey. The scene where Monsieur Gustave interviews Zero, a young man seeking employment despite his lack of experience, resonated deeply with Anthony. It evoked memories of his own early days as a commis in a Michelin-starred kitchen, facing setbacks and overcoming obstacles with tenacity. Despite tough criticism, mentorship and perseverance propelled him to his current position as head chef at Casa Cucina. This experience instilled in him a profound belief in the power of trust, guidance, and community, values he now strives to embody in his own leadership.
Inspired by the film’s bold colour palette and meticulous symmetry, Anthony crafted a menu that was as visually stunning as it was delicious. He views dining as a multi-sensory experience, a symphony of flavours, aromas, and presentations designed to stimulate emotions, foster connection, and tell a captivating story.
Rén And Casa Cucina’s Wall of Hope: Creativity With A Purpose
Casa Cucina’s partnership with Rén goes beyond the kitchen, embracing art and storytelling as powerful tools for change. The restaurant features ‘The Wall of Hope’, a collaborative art project that invites individuals to share their creative expressions. More than just a celebration of artistry, this initiative directly supports Rén’s mission – with proceeds from the artwork sales funding resources and job opportunities for disadvantaged youth, empowering them to build brighter futures.
Through culinary collaborations, artistic endeavours, and a shared commitment to giving back, Casa Cucina and Rén inspire the community to join their mission of creating lasting impact – where food, art, and purpose come together to make a difference.
Learn more about Rén’s mission at ren.community
Friday Club. is where every day feels like Friday. We spark conversations that are both trendy and thought-provoking, exploring topics that truly matter while staying true to ourselves. We’re all about honesty, tackling tough subjects head-on, yet we never forget to embrace the fun life has to offer.
