Meet your Purple Picnic Ambassador
Hi, I’m Anna Simon. I’m a Sydney-based home cook, second-generation Calabrese Italian-Australian, mum of two boys, and someone who believes deeply in the power of food to bring people together.
I grew up in a loving, noisy, safe home where food was at the heart of everything. My childhood was a blessing, and to be honest, I didn’t realise until much later in life that not every child had that same kind of safety or warmth. That kind of ignorance is a privilege, but it’s also a wake-up call. Becoming a mum really changed things for me and I started to understand how vulnerable children can be, and how important it is to protect them.
That’s why being involved with the Alannah & Madeline Foundation means so much to me. I want to help shine a light on the work they do supporting children affected by violence and trauma, and I want to do it through what I know best – the warmth of food. Sharing recipes, creating comfort, and telling stories. It’s never just about the food, it’s about making people feel looked after and a little less alone. Giving and sharing has always been my love language.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my love of Italian food and culture on platforms like The Chef’s Line and Dishing It Up on SBS, as well as regular cooking segments on Channel 7’s Sunrise and The Morning Show.
I’ve also cooked live at community events like Festa di Ferragosto and the Norton Street Italian Festa, where celebrating culture, connection, and family is always front and centre.
Because sometimes a meal isn’t just a meal, it’s safety, love, and a reminder that someone cares.
