At My Plant Co, we believe that a better food future begins with people. Diversity, inclusion and opportunity are the ingredients that drive innovation and create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Across both My Plant Co and our spicy global flavours family member – Turban Chopsticks – we are proud to support the next generation of food innovators while building pathways for people of all abilities to succeed.
Empowering Future Food Leaders
We are proud to celebrate one of our own, Cleona, whose journey reflects what is possible when curiosity and opportunity meet.
Cleona began her career as a Curtin University Food Science student, gaining hands-on experience across both My Plant Co and Turban Chopsticks. Today, she leads our Production Team and recently returned to Curtin to speak with final-year Food Science students about her career journey and lessons learned.
Her message to students was simple:
“Self-belief is everything. Every graduate starts somewhere. Employers are here to help and guide you. Don’t be quiet. Ask questions. There are no silly questions.”
Cleona’s path has taken her from India to Perth, from Food Science and Technology student to Production Team Leader. Her advice to students was to view learning as a lifelong process:
“Your placement journey is just the beginning. Learning is an opportunity. Trust the process. Enjoy the process.”
Creating Inclusive Workplaces
At My Plant Co, we have made it our mission to create an inclusive and diverse workforce within a positive workplace culture, where everyone belongs and feels part of the team.
Our partnership with Edge Employment Solutions has enabled us to provide meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disability or long-term health conditions in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Through Edge, we also participate in programs such as Charged Up for Work (CUFW) and school-based Traineeships to help students prepare for their transition from school to work. These partnerships allow us to create life-changing employment pathways that nurture skills, confidence and belonging.
Darren’s Journey
Darren joined Turban Chopsticks through the Charged Up for Work program and now works as a Food Manufacturing Process Operator. After graduating from CUFW’s work preparation training, Edge helped Darren secure his role at our factory.
“The CUFW program gave me the basis to perform my role,” Darren said. “They helped me focus on my skills and preferences so I can enjoy my job. The program helped me maintain my role by improving my skills and giving me advice on my daily routine.”
Being supported in preparing for, finding and keeping a job has been invaluable for Darren. “Employment has given me financial independence, which has allowed me to explore new hobbies, buy new things and improve my everyday life at home, which I am grateful for.”
Our CEO, Mei Yong, added, “Edge’s support has been excellent in helping us understand each individual’s strengths and needs, and in showing us how to adapt roles to suit different capabilities. The consistency and care from the Edge team have been outstanding.”
Darren shared that his experience at Turban Chopsticks has been empowering. “My employer and supervisor are always open to my thoughts. They make me feel that I am a reliable and valued team member. I have multiple tasks that are important in the manufacturing process that I am responsible for.”
His advice for others living with disability is both humble and powerful:
“Always fight for your goals, be patient and be true to yourself.”
Matthew’s Story
Matthew, who is completing a Certificate III in Business, also joined Turban Chopsticks through Edge. His school-based traineeship has provided him with valuable workplace skills and confidence.
“Having the opportunity to complete a school-based traineeship has changed my life,” Matthew said. “It has helped me become more confident, improved my communication skills and encouraged me to ask for guidance when I need it.”
Matthew credits the supportive environment and positive team culture as key to his growth. “I love my role at Turban Chopsticks. The team makes me feel included and valued, and the structure helps me stay focused and motivated.”
Inclusion in Action
Cleona, who now supervises both Darren and Matthew, recently attended the Lyn Beazley Academy’s Unlock the Strengths of Your Autistic Employees session.
The experience reinforced her belief that neurodiversity is not just valuable but essential for creativity, resilience and team strength.
Darren and Matthew continue to make a meaningful impact through their dedication, enthusiasm and strong work ethic. Watching them grow in confidence and capability has been one of the most rewarding experiences for our entire team.
Building a Better Future
At My Plant Co, diversity and inclusion are not side projects; they are central to who we are and what we believe in. By empowering individuals from all backgrounds and abilities, we are helping to build a food system that reflects the world we want to see – one rooted in opportunity, compassion and shared success.
