Cooking up a storm: Kayla's story

For nearly two years, the Rockhampton Clubhouse kitchen has been a place for recipient Kayla to build the confidence to live more independently and form meaningful friendships.  

But for the most part, it's been a place to discover that sometimes the biggest changes begin with something as simple as learning to cook.

When Kayla first came to selectability in February 2025, she was looking for a group where she could learn practical life skills in a supportive environment.

“I asked my support coordinator to find me some groups and I chose cooking group,” Kayla said.

“I didn’t know how to cook by myself.”

Living with social anxiety, Kayla took a brave step outside her comfort zone and found a welcoming space where she could learn at her own pace while getting to know others.

“I like meeting new friends in a relaxed, safe space because I have social anxiety.

“Learning new skills is also the easiest for me in a small group, and cooking group is small and fun.”

Today, cooking group is the highlight of her week.

“Cooking up a storm in the kitchen, talking to everyone about my special interest, and of course eating what we’ve made with everyone.”

The skills Kayla has developed have extended well beyond the kitchen.

She now prepares healthy meals using recipes she’s learnt through the group, has built lasting friendships and is confidently living on her own.

“I can cook on my own without help.

“I’m eating healthier meals from the recipes we’ve learned. I have good friends now and I’m able to live on my own.”

For Kayla, the greatest outcome hasn’t just been learning recipes. It’s the confidence that has come from feeling supported and connected.

“I think without cooking class I wouldn’t be able to live on my own as well as I am now.

“Cooking class didn’t just help my skills to cook, but talking to everyone there and the support workers has helped me build confidence.

“Sometimes all it takes is a listening ear to help me through my troubles and celebrate my achievements. Everyone at the Clubhouse has done that for me.”

Outside the clubhouse, Kayla enjoys drawing anime, baking desserts, completing puzzles, playing Roblox, reading manga, shopping and spending time at the beach building sandcastles.

Diagnosed with autism as a teenager, Kayla has embraced a journey of personal growth, building on her strengths and continuing to pursue new opportunities with confidence.

“It wasn’t easy, but I’m glad I’m still working towards my best self.”

For Kayla, every new recipe mastered has become another step towards greater confidence, independence and the life she wants to build.