Born in San Carlos Sula Cortés, Honduras, Alis trained to be a chef from the age of 15, gaining experience in many restaurants and kitchens over the space of around seven years and even going on to set up his own roast meat business. Unfortunately, the gang violence that gripped the city he lived in eventually encroached upon his own life and livelihood when his sister was threatened with kidnapping. Alis, his mother, sister and brother had to flee the country to escape the threat of violence and in 2019 they arrived in the UK and two months later travelled to Cardiff. He began volunteering with Oasis Cardiff, learning English and putting his culinary skills to use as a member of the kitchen team and not long after he found himself as part of their team at Green Man… He is now the proud Chef & Catering Manager of Oasis Cardiff’s Global Eats food trailer at Green Man.

‘If I had to say [which has been my favourite moment so far] it’s when we had our first time at Green Man. It was my first time dealing with customers. So it was a test of not just my skills as a chef but speaking English. I was really nervous! But then it was fun…We were really busy, but it was a good time with my mates at work. It was stressful but funny at the same time and at night we could go hear some music which was good. (...) Honestly, it’s not just the event, it’s the people. The feedback is really nice, it makes me feel really proud of what we do and who we are. It’s all the support of all the people. It’s a good feeling. (...)  It's not our fault for trying to get a better life. Whatever the reason, wherever we’ve been, it’s not safe. Back in my own country, I had my own business and my own life, I had everything. I came not because I wanted to, but because my life was in danger. It’s not a choice, really.’ - Alis