Young chef seizes opportunity through apprenticeship programme

Born into a lineage of culinary enthusiasts, 20-year-old Ravan Ahmadov’s fascination with cooking was stimulated already at a young age, as he observed his father skillfully preparing delightful dishes. His father graduated with honors as a chef and dedicated himself to the culinary craft, serving as a professional cook in village assemblies.

Inspired by this legacy, Ravan aspired to pursue formal education and followed in his father's footsteps as a professional chef. However, financial constraints cast a shadow on his dreams.

Driven by the responsibility to support his family, who had been displaced to Yevlakh from Shusha city in the early nineties, Ravan took on multiple jobs, including working as a waiter during school breaks and after hours while he was a teenager.

Despite his very demanding schedule, including traveling to distant regions for work, Ravan seized every opportunity to delve into the culinary world. While working as a waiter, he diligently observed chefs to learn the intricacies of vegetable chopping and the art of preparing kebabs. On top of all this, he completed his general secondary education and pursued his passion for music, learning to play the accordion at a local music school.

In April 2023, the launch of the “IDP Community Mobilization and Capacity Development” project in the settlement was a turning point in Ravan’s life. The aim of the project, which is funded by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and implemented by the Azerbaijani NGO “Umid” Support to Social Development Public Union, is to address challenges faced by internally displaced people participating in the Azerbaijani Government’s “Great Return” programme, and to create new employment opportunities for aspiring young professionals under the “Apprenticeship” initiative.

Sarvar, the Community Development Center leader and a settlement resident, informed Ravan about the project. Upon learning about the opportunity, Ravan eagerly prepared and applied. Among numerous applicants in the settlement, Ravan’s passion and keen interest in the culinary field favoured his inclusion by the Selection Commission for a three-month cooking course.

As part of his apprenticeship course, Ravan engaged in a comprehensive theoretical and practical course conducted by a master chef three days a week and completed training sessions on “Business Plan Preparation” and “Introduction to Entrepreneurship” organized by the Yevlakh office for small and medium-sized enterprises. Even before he had concluded the course, Ravan received a job offer from a renowned restaurant in Yevlakh, where he currently works as an assistant chef, marking a significant milestone in his culinary journey.

Initially, Ravan expressed his doubts about being chosen for the apprenticeship. “While eagerly anticipating the selection outcome, I presumed that young female candidates applying for the cooking field would secure the opportunity. Surprisingly, I received the news of my acceptance when the results were announced. The overwhelming joy I felt was indescribable as this course presented an incredible chance for me to pursue further studies and training.”

Reflecting on the impact of the apprenticeship course, Ravan remarked, “it not only sharpened my professional skills but also taught me the ability to take risks. Balancing my familial responsibilities and striving toward my aspirations became feasible. Despite the demanding work schedule at the restaurant, attending the course for three days and three hours a week was a significant achievement, enhancing my culinary proficiency.”

Enthusiastic about the possibility of returning to the birthplace of his father he said, “upon return to Shusha with my family, I intend to continue my education and advance as a professional chef. My ultimate dream is to establish a modern catering enterprise in Shusha, meeting contemporary standards.”

Prepared by:

Elsevar Aghayev, Senior External Relations Associate, UNHCR Azerbaijan

Aynur Taghiyeva, Information Manager, "Umid" Support to Social Development Public Union