Organization: Drive Change, Brooklyn, NY
Title: Culinary Training & Operations Coordinator
Nominated by: Elena Beresneva, Culinary Manager
Chef Nigel has been with Drive Change for almost a year, serving as our Chef Instructor and Culinary Mentor. From day one, he has played a central role in training Fellows in both culinary skills and professional development, while supporting CARE meal production and community food initiatives.
Chef Nigel stands out for his unwavering commitment to education, mentorship, and compassion in the kitchen. He approaches every day with calm professionalism, humor, and a deep belief in the potential of our Fellows. His ability to turn limited time and space into rich, hands-on learning moments truly sets him apart.
During a Catalyst Kitchens observation, visiting educators highlighted how Chef Nigel naturally fosters respect and agency among Fellows — calling each student by name, encouraging participation, and creating an environment where everyone feels seen and capable. They noted his ability to hold attention through patience and engagement: not a single Fellow was distracted or on their phone. The class atmosphere reflected focus, confidence, and mutual respect — hallmarks of his teaching style.
One memorable example came during a CARE meal prep when time and equipment were limited. Rather than skipping a key searing technique, Nigel redesigned the lesson on the spot — creating a rotation where each Fellow seared one portion while others observed, took notes, and provided feedback. It became one of the most engaging and educational moments in the kitchen this year.
Fellows describe Chef Nigel as “patient, consistent, fair, and always willing to teach.” His leadership models the Drive Change values of Education, Innovation, and Collective Accountability every single day.
From our Executive Director, Kalilah Moon:
“He provides a space — especially for our young men — where they can see themselves in him. There’s a blend of vulnerability and care in how he holds Fellows to high expectations, shaped by his deep experience in the hospitality industry. He brings a unique perspective to the work, connecting flavor to reflection and purpose. His presence alone centers you — he brings calmness, shows genuine care, and is often the last one to eat during Family Meal. Even as leaders, we feel his kindness and consistency — Chef Nigel always checks in on me, too.”
Chef Nigel’s work has directly strengthened Drive Change’s Culinary Fellowship Program and CARE meal initiatives. He now leads roughly 35% of all culinary classes, contributing to curriculum updates and new training systems that have improved Fellow readiness for the hospitality industry. His guidance has also helped produce and distribute over 2,000 community meals this year, advancing Drive Change’s mission to nourish and empower New Yorkers through food and education.
A typical day for Chef Nigel begins long before the first knife is picked up. He organizes mise en place for the day’s lessons, reviews recipes and learning objectives, and sets the tone for the kitchen with a calm, structured morning lineup. During class, he demonstrates culinary techniques, supervises small groups, and provides individualized coaching to each Fellow—balancing precision, safety, and encouragement.
In between classes, he collaborates with the team on CARE meal production, ensuring hundreds of nutritious meals are prepared safely and efficiently for the community. His day often ends with detailed clean-up and prep for the next session, ensuring the kitchen remains a space of learning, respect, and growth. Through his consistency and care, Chef Nigel embodies what it means to be both a chef and an educator.
Through Drive Change’s partnership with Catalyst Kitchens, Chef Nigel has had access to shared best practices and workforce development resources that strengthen our training model. The network’s educational tools and peer-learning opportunities have supported his efforts to integrate structured culinary curriculum with real-world kitchen operations, amplifying his impact as both an instructor and mentor.
SPECIAL ALERT!
Thanks to a generous donation from a founding Catalyst Kitchens board member and friend of David Carleton, the Catalyst Kitchen’s Founder’s Fund has an opportunity to raise matching funds up to $5,000 during this year’s Catalyst for Change Award Season!
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Here are the 2025 Catalyst for Change. As you read their stories, consider supporting the work of Catalyst Kitchens and our members, enabling the amazing impact of frontline staff like our nominees.
