Dr. Chef Daman Shrivastav, President of the Australian Institute of Technical Chefs (AITC) from 2017 to 2019, is a distinguished figure in the culinary world who seamlessly blends professional expertise with a profound sense of social responsibility. Known for his passion for culinary innovation and dedication to community empowerment, Dr Daman has carved an enduring legacy, inspiring chefs, students, and global communities alike.
A Visionary Leader in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Industry
As President of the AITC, Dr. Daman spearheaded initiatives to elevate the status of professional chefs in Australia. Under his leadership, the AITC emphasized skill recognition, professional development, and the importance of culinary craftsmanship. AITC’s mission during his tenure was not just to certify technical excellence but to advocate for ethical practices and community-oriented culinary education.
Dr. Daman’s groundbreaking research from Swinburne University of Technology Dissertation Title: “A job-readiness model for trainee chefs in Australia” delved into the critical areas of trainee chefs’ competency modeling and the processes that drive job readiness within the hospitality industry. In 2020, Dr. Daman was awarded VET International Practitioner Fellowship from department of Education and International Specialised Skills Institute, His report “Victorian TAFE Hospitality Students Employability Outcomes” is a comparative study of a European – Australian competency gaps in Chef’s training. Currently several of Dr. Daman’s research articles in review process in A ranked journals such as “Equipping Future Chefs: Integrating Mental Health Education for Resilience and Stress Management in Culinary Schools”, “A European – Australian Comparative Study on Competency gaps in Chef training: Implications for Chef Training in Australia”, “AI-Based Learning for Enhancing Employability in Culinary Graduates: Challenges and Opportunities.” ,“A Three-Tiered Model for Competency-Based Chef Training: Integrating Situated Learning, Educational Science, and Threshold Concepts.”
Dr. Daman’s vision extended beyond the kitchen. His belief in “recognizing and respecting individual differences, while treating others with kindness,” became a guiding principle, influencing AITC’s approach to inclusivity and fostering global collaboration.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Daman launched DDs Kitchen, a YouTube channel with his daughter Diya that showcases his culinary prowess while engaging young audiences. Through “Cooking with Children”, he introduced the joy of cooking to a younger generation, fostering creativity and connection through food. These efforts underline his commitment to inclusivity,
Cooking with Compassion: DDs Kitchen
Empowering Youth with Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities
One of Dr. Daman’s most heart-warming initiatives is his work with youth with intellectual disabilities. This journey, initiated two years ago in collaboration with Dr. Jane Burns and supported by notable figures such as Steve Lewis and Rochelle Rich, aims to empower intellectually disabled individuals by integrating them into meaningful community activities at his restaurant India @ Q by DDs Kitchen in Kew,Victoria.
A particularly touching story is Dr. Daman’s connection with young Angus, whose visits to India @ Q by DDs Kitchen bring joy and inspiration to those around him. These efforts reflect Dr. Daman’s unwavering belief that Mental health and intellectual disabilities should not define individuals. Instead, he emphasizes their rights, aspirations, and emotions, advocating for equality and empowerment.
Supporting Communities During Crisis: COVID-19 Response
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Chef Daman extended his compassion to international students stranded in Melbourne and vulnerable residents unable to leave their homes. Partnering with Educator and Chef Sarah Maric, DDs kitchen’s volunteers and sponsors , he provided essential meals to residents of the Collingwood commission housing , ensuring that no one went hungry during those challenging times. This effort, carried out with necessary permissions as an essential service, showcased Dr. Daman’s dedication to serving those in need.
His initiative not only provided sustenance but also fostered a sense of hope and connection for those facing isolation and uncertainty. Dr. Daman’s restaurant is an institution which not only provide an employment and training opportunities to Autism students at Bulleen Heights school and also runs community program for Methodist Ladies college. Dr. Daman and His wife organises regular fundraising dinner at their restaurant for Royal Children’s Hospital and Emotions. Org.au .
Acknowledging Pillars of Support
Dr. Daman’s journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of his family and colleagues. He often acknowledges the dedication of his wife, Indika Shrivastav, and daughter, Diya Shrivastav, who have been integral to his success. He also extends gratitude to City of Boroondara Councillor Sophie Torney, whose invaluable support has been instrumental in driving these initiatives forward.
Contributors like Sarah Maric, Dr.Jane Burne, Don Sherman, Laksitha Hettiaratchi, Steve Lewis and Rochelle Rich have played significant roles in helping Dr.Daman realize his vision of a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Advocating for Intellectual Disability Awareness
Dr. Daman has been a vocal advocate for raising awareness about mental health and intellectual disabilities of young adults and creating a pathways for their employability.. He emphasizes that intellectual disability is a lifelong condition that impacts cognitive skills and adaptability but does not diminish the inherent value, aspirations, or emotions of individuals. His work continues to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and inspire communities to support and uplift intellectually disabled individuals.
Continuing the Mission
Looking ahead, Dr. Daman remains committed to empowering youth with mental health intellectual disabilities and fostering inclusive culinary experiences. His legacy is a testament to the power of kindness, creativity, and community engagement, proving that culinary arts can be a vehicle for meaningful change.
In his own words, “We will continue to support this mission.”
Conclusion
Dr.Daman Shrivastav exemplifies the essence of a chef who not only masters the art of cooking but also uses it as a tool to nurture communities and drive social impact. His journey—marked by professional excellence, compassion, and a commitment to inclusivity—continues to inspire the culinary world and beyond.
Dr. Daman’s story is not just about food; it’s about the bonds it creates the lives it touches, and the hope it ignites. His legacy reminds us all that with passion, kindness, and collaboration, we can build a more inclusive and empathetic world.