Every morning, while many children are still on their way to the centre, Sohaila Ismail is already in the kitchen at Phoenix Street Children’s Centre in Sunshine North. Fresh fruit is being prepared. Lunch is underway. Snacks are carefully planned. By the time the first children arrive, one of the most important parts of their day is already waiting for them.
It’s a routine she has followed for almost two decades.
Originally from Afghanistan, Sohaila is a proud mother of four and grandmother of two. She has been part of the BPA family for 19 years, preparing healthy, nutritious meals that nourish children throughout the day.
For Sohaila, cooking has never simply been about food.
It’s about helping children feel cared for.
"I hope they feel happy, cared for and excited to eat. I want every child to know that their meals are prepared with love and that they have a safe, welcoming place where they can enjoy healthy food with their friends."
Growing up in Afghanistan taught Sohaila that food has the power to bring people together. Family meals were about more than eating. They were moments of connection, warmth and belonging.
That belief still guides her today.
Whether she’s preparing homemade pasta packed with vegetables, colourful fruit platters or healthy muffins, every meal is made with the same care she would give her own family.
It’s no surprise that some dishes have become centre favourites. Homemade pasta, tacos, pizza and healthy muffins are always met with excitement, with many children eager to ask for seconds.
But it’s not the empty plates Sohaila remembers most.
It’s the children.
One of her favourite moments is when a child walks into the kitchen simply to say thank you or to tell her how much they enjoyed lunch. Those small conversations remind her that even the simplest act of kindness can leave a lasting impression.
Behind every meal is thoughtful planning and careful preparation. Every child’s dietary requirements matter. Allergies, cultural preferences, religious needs and individual food plans are all considered, ensuring every child can safely enjoy mealtimes alongside their friends.
That work doesn’t happen in isolation.
Sohaila works closely with educators every day to support children’s routines and individual needs. Together, they create an environment where mealtimes become another opportunity for learning, independence and connection.
Children learn to serve themselves. They practise table manners. They try new foods. They build confidence through conversation and shared experiences with their peers.
For Sohaila, these everyday moments are just as important as the meals themselves.
After 19 years at BPA, it’s the people who have kept her here.
She describes the organisation in three simple words: caring, supportive and welcoming.
“I love being part of such a caring and supportive community,” she says. “Everyone works together to give children the best start in life, and it feels like one big family.”
That sense of teamwork is something families may not always see, but they experience it every day through the care their children receive.
Because while educators guide learning in the classroom, people like Sohaila are helping children thrive in another equally important way.
One meal at a time.
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After more than a decade with BPA, Fitri now supports educators across services. Her journey across cultures continues to shape how she helps children feel confident, accepted and valued.
At BPA Early Learning, every role contributes to giving children the best start in life. If you’re looking for meaningful work in a supportive team, we’d love to hear from you.
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