About Us

Founded in 2023 by Executive Director Chef Malisa Rivera, Culinary Kids South has been serving the Darlington South Carolina community with free programs and volunteer-led events designed to inspire, educate, and empower. What began as a vision to bring healthier food and culinary education to underserved neighborhoods has grown into a dynamic initiative that touches the lives of countless young people. For years, our team has worked to bridge the gap between access to nutritious food and the skills needed to prepare it, fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger communities.

Our mission is simple but powerful: to assist and empower youth in low-economic areas to make better nutritional choices while also equipping them with pathways to economic self-sufficiency. By combining hands-on culinary training with lessons in farming, agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental stewardship, we provide youth with both the knowledge and practical skills to thrive. These experiences not only encourage healthier eating habits but also open doors to careers in food service, agriculture, sustainability, and beyond.

At Culinary Kids South, we believe that food is more than fuel — it’s a tool for transformation. Every class, workshop, and program is designed to help young people discover their own potential, strengthen their connection to the environment, and build the confidence to succeed. By investing in today’s youth, we are cultivating tomorrow’s leaders — individuals who are equipped to live healthier lives, support their families, and create lasting change in their communities.

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