A group of young women traded their schoolbooks for chef coats during Fall Break, learning new skills in the kitchen while building confidence, friendships, and leadership skills!

The Girls Dig Deeper Initiative (GDDI), a Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) partner, teamed up with Helms College to host a four-day Culinary Camp for 20 young women from October 15-18. This was the third year GDDI hosted a Fall Break camp, but the first time participants got to explore the culinary arts.

Throughout the week, the girls learned what it takes to prepare a full meal from start to finish. From creating ingredient lists and preparing ingredients to cooking pasta, making salads, baking garlic bread, and setting tables, they got hands-on experience in the kitchen with guidance from culinary professionals.

“When I first walked in, I was very excited to learn to cook, to get to learn what else I can cook,” said Joelie Watson, a senior at Central High School.

The camp wrapped up on Saturday with the young women putting their new skills to the test by preparing and serving a meal for their parents and invited guests. They also participated in a panel discussion to share what they learned throughout the experience.

But the camp was about much more than cooking. The girls also had opportunities to connect with established female chefs, hear about their career journeys, and learn about educational and career opportunities available through Helms College.

For many of the participants, being part of Girls Dig Deeper has already made a lasting impact.

“It has helped me become a leader. To not do what everyone else does. To be different,” said Watson.

Nevaeh Finney, a junior at Northeast High School, says the program has helped her grow in ways she never expected.

“The years I have been here, I’ve also gotten a chance to learn more about myself and mental health. It helped me in ways that I didn’t even know I needed,” said Finney.
“It helps me stay positive, when we get to come together have fun and actually bond as girls,” she added.

Through mentorship, leadership development, and hands-on experiences like this camp, GDDI works to help young women discover their potential and build a brighter future.

GDDI is one of several community organizations supported through Macon Violence Prevention, an initiative focused on reducing violent crime and creating safer, stronger neighborhoods. Between 2022 and 2026, GDDI received $52,667 in MVP grant funding through the Community Foundation of Central Georgia to provide mentorship, leadership development, mental health resources, and other programs for young women.

By investing in programs like this, MVP and its community partners are helping young people build confidence, discover new interests, and see the opportunities available to them right here in Macon-Bibb County.

Click here to watch the young ladies in action!