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Which program did you graduate from?

Spring Scarf ‘25. 

The seasonal program that Lily took part in included 10 weeks of training and mentoring, paid work experience at two pop-up Scarf Dinners at Molli, and paid work experience with Scarf Partner, Allpress Espresso.

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What was your experience of looking for work and applying for jobs before you came to Scarf?

Before Scarf, finding work was challenging as I was new to Australia and had limited local experience, so it was difficult to know where to start or how to stand out in job applications.

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How did you find out about Scarf?

I found out about Scarf through ChatGPT while searching for programs that could help me gain work experience and build my career in Australia as an asylum seeker.

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Service Skills training with Mentor Gabs and Scarf Graduate Fouad. Photo: Roger Ungers. 

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Why did you apply for the Scarf program?

I applied to Scarf to get Australian work experience, build my confidence, and develop practical hospitality skills in a supportive environment.

What was the best part of the program?

The best part was getting confidence, learning real hospitality skills, and meeting supportive people who encouraged my growth.

Before Scarf, finding work was challenging as I was new to Australia and had limited local experience.

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The Spring Scarf '25 trainees at Molli. Photo: Laura May Grogan. 

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What was it like to work alongside mentors during Scarf Dinners at Molli?

It was a really positive experience. The mentors were supportive, welcoming, and helped me learn in a real, fast-paced hospitality environment.

What was it like to do your work experience shifts at Allpress Espresso in Collingwood? 

My work experience at Allpress was very valuable. It gave me hands-on barista experience, including coffee making and working with espresso machines, improved my customer service skills, and taught me teamwork and attention to detail.

Starting a part-time role at Pullman is a special achievement for me, after almost three years of searching for a stable hospitality position... Scarf helped me take an important step towards this milestone.

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Lily and Scarf mentor Sarah during a Spring Scarf '25 Dinner at Molli. Photo: Laura May Grogan. 

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What was your first job after graduating from Scarf?

My first job after graduating was with The Big Group at the Australian Open 2026. It was an exciting experience that helped me build confidence, gain valuable hospitality experience, and develop strong customer service and teamwork skills.

What other involvement have you had with Scarf, apart from the program?

I supported the Foundations Program trainees in their final training session by sharing hospitality tips such as table setting, carrying glasses, and taking orders. I also attended the Foundations graduation celebration, worked at Scarf’s 15th birthday event, and worked at Scarf's gala dinner, Do More Than Dine '26 as a beverage attendant, welcoming guests and talking on the graduate panel. 

My [paid work experience] at Allpress was very valuable. It gave me hands-on barista experience, improved my customer service skills, and taught me teamwork and attention to detail.

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Lily working at Scarf's 15th birthday party. Photo: Laura May Grogan. 

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Where are you currently working, and what makes you most excited about your current job/s?

I currently work with Delaware North and Levy in hospitality events. Since graduating from Scarf, I have also had the opportunity to work with The Big Group and The European (City Wine Shop). Since July 2026, I've worked as a Food & Beverage attendant at Pullman Melbourne Albert Park. I’m excited to keep learning, meeting new people, and continuing to grow my career in hospitality. Starting a part-time role at Pullman is a special achievement for me after almost three years of searching for a stable hospitality position. It was a goal I always hoped to reach, and Scarf helped me take an important step towards this milestone.

What's your advice to future Scarf trainees?

I would definitely recommend it. Scarf gives real experience, supportive mentors, and helps build confidence and skills for future opportunities.

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Lily and fellow graduates Marian, Dis and Anna speak on a panel at Scarf's gala dinner. Photo: Carmen Zammit. .

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Support the next trainee cohort

The Winter Scarf '26 seasonal program began in June, and our wonderful new cohort of trainees are excited about working during Winter Scarf Dinners at Lankan Tucker, running on Tuesday nights in August.  

Find out more   

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Spring Scarf '25 crew ahead of a Scarf Dinner at Molli. Photo: Laura May Grogan. 

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NB: Lily answered these questions in writing, in June 2026, with an update made in July to reflect her employment with Pullman Melbourne Albert Park.