Today we’d like to introduce you to Amilcar Marrima.
Hi Amilcar, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I am a former war refugee from Mozambique-Africa who resettled to San Diego, California. Soon after arriving in San diego here in America I experienced a cultural shock at the young age of 20 I had to start learning everything about life again for example the use of ATM machines, cellphones, food stamps, job search methods, etc…
In 2011 I started organizing local events in our church to help local Community, volunteered at Jefferson elementary school in North Park in their 6-6 program, worked in Auto sales for 10 years, then, later traveled to Brazil to study Afro-Cuisine and became a Chef de Cuisine. Then started to use my professional skills to help enrich people’s lives, specially those Youth whose parents are absent, in prison, or dead. With help from volunteers I prepare Gala dinners, invite guest speakers, musicians and raise money for orphans and Widows worldwide.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Obstacles are there for a reason. Nothing good comes easily. from selling the concept to the masses, from procuring food, rent a kitchen, Cooking, set-up and serve to the donors…People often ask why are you doing this? I started by funding dinner events with my own salary and asking food from restaurants until we got more public exposure. Now we have a following and volunteers from all walks of life.
In 2020 during the pandemic lock-down I had a lot of downtime. One day after waking up early. It dawn on me that the street near our house was silent. No sirens, no helicopters, no ambulances, absolutely no roaring engines. The sky was clear blue. To my surprise I heard many birds chirping from their nests high up on the trees. The lesson learned is: All this time, my daily surroundigs were so loud and chaotic that caused me to miss out on the this beautiful chirping orquestra coming from the birds. We must act with purpose regardless of outside pressure or environment.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I work at a retirement resort in National City, preparing meals for seniors and their guests. I had the privilege of cooking food for a Nazi survivor- Aushwitz escapee. I learned a lot from her about life.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
The Bible, Recipe books, reading autobiographies, Pinterest, Gronda, master classes and personal growth books.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.diningforhope.org
- Instagram: Diningforhope.org
- Facebook: Diningforhope.org
- Linkedin: Diningforhope.org
Image Credits
Jeremy Delizo
