Cromwell’s Kāhui Ako (learning community) is hosting two free events to promote community care and wellbeing: a night with Matt Chisholm, and a ‘Destitute Gourmet’ class with Sophie Gray.

Kāhui (flock or group) Ako (learning) encompasses Cromwell College, the town’s two primary schools, and its six early childhood centres with a philosophy of encouraging wellbeing.

The learning community’s cross-school leader is Cromwell College staff member Tineke Hayes. 

“We’re excited – these events are  a great starting point to accentuate wellbeing in our community,” she said.

A few years ago, Matt Chisholm discovered that talking about the hard stuff in his life helped numerous others doing their own hard yards.

Matt’s experience culminated in him writing his memoir, Imposter, in 2020. His story retells a difficult childhood, his pain of pursuing perfectionism, and the effects of problem drinking.

This will be Matt’s first speaking engagement in Cromwell (Thursday June 15).

Sophie Gray

Former editor of Food magazine Sophie Gray has her feet firmly planted in the realities of feeding a family when money is tight. 

Her class includes teaching, cooking, tasting, with many helpful tips and techniques to make food last longer and go further.

She’s a champion for the average kiwi household and will demonstrate four to five recipes, showing you how to make family food more interesting, healthy and cost effective (Friday June 16).

Kāhui Ako acknowledged the major sponsor for both events, 45 South Cherries.