A former sponsored child supported by ANAK, Wayan has turned his passion for cooking into an ambitious and meaningful project.
On January 21, 2026, he organized a charity dinner in support of the association, alongside teenagers from the Dharma Citta residence.
An emotional evening, symbolizing transmission, gratitude, and hope for the future.
FROM SPONSORED CHILD TO ASPIRING CHEF
After graduating from high school in 2023, Wayan worked in several establishments in southern Bali. A turning point came when he was accepted into the Bali Culinary & Pastry School – a prestigious institution training chefs for top international kitchens.
He is currently completing an 18-month program combining intensive coursework and professional internships. His journey has already taken him to South Korea, where he expanded his knowledge of world cuisines, and to Amankila, where he trained under Italian chef Gabriele and was awarded Best Intern.
Supported by his family, his sponsors, and the entire ANAK team, Wayan continues to move forward with determination. His mother’s words still resonate:
« Being poor does not mean you cannot access prestigious schools. »
A HEARTFELT IDEA: A CHARITY DINNER FOR ANAK
His idea: to organize a charity gastronomic dinner, bringing together culinary excellence, knowledge-sharing, and solidarity.
For three months, Wayan prepared for the event with dedication. During his days off while interning at Amankila, he returned to Dharma Citta to test his menu and train the teenagers he selected to assist him in the kitchen.
At the same time, Maya – Anak’s Global Coordinator, trained other Grade 12 students for service, with the support of Eka, currently studying hospitality and restaurant management at the same school as Wayan.
AN EVENING FILLED WITH PURPOSE AND EMOTION
On January 21, 2026, the charity dinner came to life in Lovina, at Le Resto, generously made available by Arnaud, a long-time supporter of the association.
In the kitchen, Wayan was joined by a classmate and several teenagers from Dharma Citta. Service was carried out professionally by Grade 12 students, under Maya’s coordination.
The gastronomic menu, designed as a tribute to Balinese culture and heritage, delighted the guests.
Nearly 40 people attended the evening, including members of the local community, ANAK partners — Ticket to the Moon and Blue Karma Children Foundation — as well as donors.
A charity auction featuring creations from Dharma Citta’s vocational workshops punctuated the evening, helping to raise funds for the association.
A MEANINGFUL PASSING OF THE TORCH
Beyond the funds raised, this dinner perfectly embodied ANAK’s mission: supporting, empowering, and witnessing young people become agents of change.
A heartfelt thank you to Wayan for this inspiring initiative, to all the young people involved, to our partners, and to every guest for their continued support.
Photo credit: © David Saut