Our Story

Culture Connect WA was born from a desire to merge the joy of cooking with the power of social impact.
We believe that food is a universal language that can bridge cultural divides, promote understanding, and create opportunities for all.

Our team is composed of passionate individuals with diverse backgrounds in culinary arts, education, and community service. We are driven by a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and empowering individuals through culinary experiences.

Meet The Team

Liz Goonewardene - CEO

Elizabeth is a culinary powerhouse with Sri Lankan, Scottish, and Australian roots, shaped by a vibrant, multicultural family. Growing up in a large household surrounded by creativity and diverse perspectives, she developed a deep appreciation for culture, learning, and connection. She refined her culinary skills in London, Perth, and through her travels, always seeking to understand the traditions and stories behind each dish. Passionate about preserving and sharing traditional foods, Elizabeth sees cooking as a way to honour heritage and bring people together.

She is a qualified Hospitality and Commercial Cookery trainer and assessor with 14 years of experience as a chef, having worked in renowned kitchens across the globe. Elizabeth continues to teach at an international culinary school in Perth, mentoring aspiring chefs and championing cultural diversity in the kitchen.

Beyond the classroom, Elizabeth is dedicated to community service—supporting all communities through inclusive food education and employment pathways. For her, food is more than a meal—it’s a powerful force at Culture Connect WA!

Carlo Friscuolo - Culinary Director

Carlo brings over 40 years of experience in the hospitality industry, shaped by a lifelong dedication to excellence and a passion for service. His career spans some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, including Michelin-starred establishments in London and Switzerland, where he honed his craft in both front-of-house and kitchen operations. Carlo has also worked aboard luxury cruise ships, managing elegant dining rooms and leading multicultural teams with precision and care.
Currently, Carlo is a qualified trainer and assesor at an international culinary school in Perth, where he shares his wealth of knowledge with aspiring chefs, guiding them to master both the technical and creative aspects of the culinary world. His deep understanding of hospitality extends beyond fine dining—he’s passionate about mentoring the next generation and instilling values of professionalism, consistency, and cultural appreciation.

Carlo’s leadership style shines through his passion for food and his dedication to teaching!

Katherine Goonewardene - Education Coordinator

Katherine brings over five years of education and a profound passion for food, community, and cultural exchange, which have been deeply influenced by her multicultural upbringing. Growing up in a diverse environment exposed her to a rich tapestry of traditions, cuisines, and stories, sparking her lifelong curiosity about how food serves as a universal language that transcends borders and brings people together.

Her love for the ways in which food connects individuals, families, and communities drives her unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and mutual respect through her work at Culture Connect WA. Katherine believes that shared culinary experiences are a powerful tool for breaking down barriers, building trust, and nurturing a sense of belonging among people from all walks of life.

Kenneth Salibongcogon - International Coordinator

Ken is currently pursuing a degree in Hospitality Management at Stanley College in Australia. With a background in Industrial Engineering, he brings a strong foundation in optimizing systems and improving processes—skills he now applies to creating efficient, customer-focused dining experiences in the hospitality industry.

Originally from the Philippines, Ken was actively involved in his family’s small food business, which sparked his passion for the culinary arts and reinforced his belief that food has the power to bring people together. From planning to customer service, his hands-on experience in the food industry has deepened his interest in improving operations and enhancing guest experiences.

Now in Australia, Ken is excited to expand his skill set, learn from diverse cuisines and cultures, and bring his engineering mindset to the world of hospitality management.

Through Culture Connect WA I hope to inspire my passion for food, foster cultural exchange, and create a welcoming community for international students.

Alia Abdi - Connection Consultant

Meet Alia, a passionate advocate and leader with personal, lived experience of disability, who is deeply committed to creating a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. As a proud Muslim woman of colour, Alia brings a unique and valuable perspective to every aspect of her work, drawing from her own journey and the challenges she has overcome.

Her educational background in community studies, which she completed at TAFE, has equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to community initiatives, especially those focused on empowering individuals from marginalised groups.