Throughout the years, New York City has become a safe haven for people with different identities to come and live as their true selves as well as to build their careers. That was the appeal for Hot Bread Kitchen member Brianna, a transgender woman who immigrated to New York from Honduras to evade the constant threat of hate crimes and lack of protection from law enforcement. “I immigrated here because in my country there is a lot of discrimination for employment opportunities,” Brianna shared. “Not only that, but I lived alone in my apartment, and I was attacked many times physically as well as psychologically for being transgender.”
After making the journey to New York, Brianna was referred to Hot Bread Kitchen from our community partners at CAMBA. Before completing our Culinary Career Pathways for New New Yorkers program, Brianna was unable to secure employment, despite having all the proper documentation.
During the 6-week program, Brianna worked and learned along with other recent immigrants to develop skills in culinary and baking techniques and professional skills. Just 10 days after graduating the program, Brianna was hired by our employer partner Colson Patisserie.
“[When I first came to New York] I couldn’t get a job, it was really difficult for me. But after finishing the program at Hot Bread Kitchen, I really just went out and the next week I started working.”
In her new role, Brianna has a newfound sense of economic and personal security, allowing her to live comfortably in her new home for the first time. We look forward to continuing running the New New Yorkers program in 2025 and helping more Breadwinners like Brianna rise!
