Founder’s Message

My dear friends, neighbours, and fellow Australians, I was born and raised in Singapore and have called Australia home since 2006, shaped deeply by the values and spirit of this beautiful land. My journey began in the fitness industry, where I found purpose in helping people live healthier, more meaningful lives. After settling in Melbourne, I discovered another joy that quietly took root in my heart: cooking and sharing food. Many individuals I knew were receiving surplus food donations but lacked the facilities, time, energy, or confidence to cook it. Often, they ended up giving the ingredients away again. I began taking these perfectly good ingredients and transforming them into ready-to-eat meals—meals that I would then return to them. What touched me most was not just their gratitude for the food, but the warmth and connection that came with it. While many organisations in Victoria work tirelessly to rescue and redistribute surplus food, a critical gap remains. Many recipients of rescued food cannot cook it. Due to age, illness, lack of stable housing, or being in crisis, these individuals may not have access to the time, skills, facilities, or energy required to turn raw ingredients into nourishing meals. As a result, much of this food still goes to waste, spoiled or discarded out of uncertainty. From this need led to the birth of Repurpose and Serve—a charity devoted to rescuing surplus food and transforming it into wholesome, ready-to-eat meals. But this vision goes far beyond food. When I first envisioned this community café, I saw more than just a place where surplus food finds its purpose and is celebrated. I imagined a space where everyone, from all walks of life, can sit down to a nourishing meal without the burden of a price tag and feel accepted without judgment. Today, as a Civil Marriage Celebrant, I continue to honour life’s meaningful moments. Whether through a wedding ceremony or a shared meal, my heart is for connection, compassion, and community. Together with our dedicated team, I thank you deeply with gratitude for your generosity, support, and belief in this vision.