I believe that when we teach people, especially youth, how to use food to connect authentically with others, to build a circle of chosen community around themselves and to live their best lives, we can create a life of JOY.
– Chef Pam Fanjoy, MSW, RSW
Meet Chef Pam Fanjoy
Pam Fanjoy, MSW, RSW, has been helping families create the change that they want in their lives for the past 30 years as a Child, Adolescent & Family Therapist.
Now also an award-winning chef and Executive Director of Cooking Up Change, she is combining her talents to address the intersectionality of childhood food insecurity, mental health and future wellbeing.
Chef Pam’s culinary and counselling programs, including the signature Fanjoy Junior Chef Program, are based on a Milieu Therapy approach to care for youth and families in a safe, structured environment, when and where they need help the most.
Her innovative culinary therapy model is focused on the 3 Cs – communication, collaboration, and cooperation – to teach youth in a deliciously approachable way in any kitchen to heal trauma responses, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and increase creative problem-solving. Junior Chef programs help heal body, mind and soul, and teach valuable life skills to support the transition to independence and successful adulthood.
Learn more about Pam’s one-of-a-kind Fanjoy Junior Chef programs.
Speaking and Corporate Events
Book Chef Pam to speak or deliver a customized interactive workshop at your next event.
Also see our corporate culinary & wellness packages.
Feeding Connection™
The Healing Power of Cooking, Community & Milieu Therapy
Cooking Up Change™
Mental Health for Food Entrepreneurs & Workplaces
A Seat at the Table
Journey from Childhood Hunger to Chopped Canada™ Champion & Food Network™ Celebrity Chef
Culinary Experiences
Chef Pam also hosts fun, interactive and delicious weekend cooking classes, Chef’s Table and Supper Club events.
Chef Pam – Fast Facts
Vital Voices GROW Global Women’s Entrepreneurship Fellow 2021
BMO Celebrating Canadian Women Grant Recipient 2020
Rhyze Ventures Social Enterprise WINNER 2020
Executive Director, Cooking Up Change
Firemasters International Competitor, Food Network, 3rd place, 2020
Carnival Eats, Food Network, Featured Chef, 2018
Rhyze Awards for Women Entrepreneurs WINNER 2018
Headwaters Best of Tourism Events, Culinary Classes 2017
Chopped Canada Champion, Food Network 2016
Vicki Chan Award for High Achievement, GBC 2013
YMCA Women of Distinction Culinary Award, 2nd place 2013
Featured Chef • Bethany’s Hope Foundation, London 2016-2019
Featured Chef • 2013-2019 PEI’S Village Feast with Chef Michael Smith
Guest Chef • National Veterans Memorial Dinner 2016 with Chef Matt Pennell
DEGREES
Culinary Management, Honors • Dec 2013 • George Brown College
Master Of Social Work • April 2000 • Wilfrid Laurier University
Bachelor Of Social Work • April 1995 • York University
Bachelor Of Arts Hons • April 1993 • Wilfrid Laurier University