A Taste of Diversity: How Our Global Culinary Program is Connecting Cultures and Empowering Employees
At Asana, we believe that food is more than just fuel—it’s a medium for connection, culture, and community. With this in mind, our Global Culinary Program is designed to satisfy our employees' appetites and create meaningful experiences. Through partnerships with Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), we’ve crafted a culinary journey that celebrates cultural diversity, fosters inclusion, and empowers our team to feel represented and heard.
Launching Our Street Food Station: A Flavorful Celebration of Global Cultures
One of the most exciting initiatives born from this collaboration is launching our Street Food Station, an immersive culinary experience featuring authentically made dishes from around the world. This initiative directly results from ongoing conversations with our ERG leaders, who represent a wide range of cultural backgrounds. From vibrant street markets in Mexico to bustling food stalls in Southeast Asia, we’ve curated menus that bring the essence of these diverse cuisines to our employees’ daily dining experience.
This station is unique because it’s more than just food—it’s about the stories behind the dishes. Involving ERG members from various cultural groups ensures the food is made authentically – with input from those who know it best. This provides a genuine experience and opens doors for employees to explore and appreciate our company's rich tapestry of cultures.
Cultivating Community and Representation
Food has the unique ability to make people feel seen and valued. Our Global Culinary Program ensures our employees feel a sense of representation and belonging whenever they enter the dining area. We’ve heard from many employees how powerful it is to see their culture represented in the workplace—whether it’s the dish from their grandmother’s kitchen or a meal they enjoyed growing up.
The broader community within our company also benefits. When employees gather around the Street Food Station, they’re not just eating—they’re engaging in conversations, sharing their own stories, and building relationships across cultural lines. This program has become a catalyst for fostering a more inclusive and connected community where everyone’s background is celebrated and respected.
Empowering Employees with an Inclusive Approach
At the heart of our Global Culinary Program is the belief that everyone should have a voice in how and what they eat. By collaborating with ERG leaders and listening to employee feedback, we’ve created a space where employees feel they have agency in the dining experience. Our inclusive approach ensures that the food we serve is not just an offering but a reflection of the diverse tastes, preferences, and cultures that make up our company.
We’re proud that our employees can choose from dishes that speak to their cultural identity or encourage them to explore new cuisines. This sense of empowerment goes a long way in promoting well-being and satisfaction at work, making our culinary program not just about what’s on the menu but how it enhances the overall employee experience.
More Than Just a Meal
Our Global Culinary Program, powered by partnerships with ERGs, is a testament to Asana’s commitment to inclusion, representation, and community. By celebrating diverse cultures through food, we’re fostering deeper relationships, building a stronger sense of belonging, and empowering our employees to feel seen, heard, and valued. The launch of our Street Food Station is just the beginning of this flavorful journey—and we’re excited to continue building a culinary program that nourishes our team and connects us in ways that go far beyond the plate.
About the author
Fran Rubio has served two years as Head of Culinary and now manages the Workplace Operations Team at Asana SFHQ. He brings over 15 years of culinary leadership experience. His passion for the culinary arts is only outmatched by his desire to see people connect in meaningful ways.
