Letizia's Story | Journey of Passion , Perseverance, and Purpose in Training

Letizia's Story

Letizia's Story . . .

Without turning this into a novel

(because, let’s face it, time is precious) here’s a quick snapshot of my journey:

1985 - At 16 years old, I started my cooking apprenticeship, eager to learn and grow. I was always willing to move across Australia for the right opportunity.

1996 - Met Mr. Mosimann in Brisbane, Australia

1997 - Attended a Mosimann's Cooking Academy in Battersea, London

1997 - Worked as a Chef Tournant at Mosimann's London

1998 - Embarked on a culinary adventure across Europe, working as a Stagier at various prestigious hotels.

2002 - Letizia's Café Bar Restaurant established - A multi-story restaurant with a 100-year-old cellar and a blues bar in the attic. Thanks to our dedicated team, we achieved so much.
- 2005 Powercor Winner Business Excellence Award
- 2006 - 2007 - 2008 - 2009 Recommended The Age Good Food Guide
- Won Numerous Wine Club Awards

2017 - COOKING 4 LIFE Hospitality Training & Development established - Realizing I couldn’t run a restaurant forever, I began planning my exit strategy. I went back to night school for a year to earn my Trainer’s Qualification.

2018 - COOKING 4 LIFE Hospitality Training & Development partners with Quality Service Skills After meeting CEO Jackie Moriarty at an RSA Training day in Melbourne, we formed a partnership. With hospitality qualifications on scope, COOKING 4 LIFE was officially underway.

2018 - 2023 - COOKING 4 LIFE & CVGT Through a partnership with CVGT Shepparton, we launched the Indigenous Hospitality course. From those humble beginnings, we now deliver courses across various sites and serve other job providers.

2023 - COOKING 4 LIFE PARTNERS with Allens Training Pty Ltd To diversify our range of offerings, we partnered with Allens Training to add White Card and First Aid to our qualifications.

2024 - COOKING 4 LIFE IS NOW "Letizia's Training & Development" With our expanded range of courses, we decided it was time to rebrand to reflect our growth beyond hospitality and cooking.

2024 - "Finalists in the Greater Shepparton Business Network SPC Business Excellence Awards " We were honored to be finalists celebrating our commitment to excellence in training &community support.

TO BE CONTINUED . . .

Where Did the "Relax, You're at Letizia’s Now" Slogan Come From?
The slogan was born from a memorable moment when a customer called our restaurant at 11 PM, asking if they could still get a meal while passing through Shepparton. I replied, “Relax, you’re at Letizia’s now,” and it instantly resonated. From that moment, it became part of who we are and has stuck ever since.

Meet the Letizia's Team

Marz, founder of Letizia's Training & Development, passionate about empowering individuals through education and training.

Mario Letizia
Founder & Lead Trainer

My friends call me Marz — the only time I hear “Mario” is from my father… and that usually means I’m in trouble!

My personal goal is to help as many students not just gain a qualification, but realise their full potential.

When I’m not training, you’ll often find me in my workshop. Every coffee machine you see in our classes - I’ve built myself. One day, when I eventually step back from training, I imagine I’ll spend my days happily pottering around in there.

And when it’s time to unwind, I pick up my guitar. It’s how I reset after a big day - music, like training, feeds the soul.

I’m looking forward to meeting you and being part of your journey.

Believe. Achieve. Succeed. Let’s learn, grow, and achieve - together.

Tiffany, co-founder of Letizia's Training & Development, supporting the mission of helping individuals achieve their goals and potential.

Walter, the Letizia family dog, bringing joy and companionship to Letizia's Training & Development.

Tiffany Letizia
Director of
Student Services & Accounts

Walter Letizia
Mascot

I grew up in Kyabram, and have always lived in the Goulburn Valley area.

I met Marz at Letizia's Restaurant, and after a few cocktails, well let's just say the rest is history. This year we will have now shared 15 wonderful years together.

My previous experience includes Optical Dispensing and Retail Management at Specsavers, as well as Employment Consultant and Team Leader at both Madec and are-able (formerly WDEA Works).

I am currently studying part time to become a Psychologist, and working part time as Practice Manager at GV Developmental Clinic.

When we are not working, my favourite thing to do is travel on holidays with Marz & Walter.

Hi my name is Walter Letizia. A day in my life at Letizia's Training & Development consists of shredding the sensitive paper work to comply with the privacy act.

In my spare time I like to chew bones & sleep.

I love pranking my dad by leaving my toys and sharp bones around the house and watching him stand on them and yelp out in pain.

My least favourite thing is bath time. No matter how hard I try to hide from mum she always finds me!

Training Team

Dale Smith
Trainer & Assessor

Hi, I’m Dale - a hands-on trainer with real world experience across trades, hospitality, and baking.

I’ve spent 18 years in the automotive industry, 27 years in hospitality leadership, and later became a trainer in the baking sector, passing on my skills to apprentice bakers and pastry chefs.

I’ve also worked in everything from construction to plumbing, so I understand what it takes to adapt and succeed in different fields.

What drives me is helping others grow. I’m passionate about building confidence and guiding students to believe in themselves both in their learning and in life.

Can’t wait to work with you!

Richenda Pritchard
Trainer & Assessor

Hi, I’m Richenda - I bring over 30 years of hands-on hospitality experience to the training space.

I started my journey as a chef, moved into front-of-house roles, and went on to own and co-own restaurants, cafés, and a catering company. One of my proudest moments was earning a Chef’s Hat for my restaurant Delizia Cucina, and recently being named Lead Judge for the Golden Plate Awards.

Now, I’m focused on sharing what I’ve learned - helping others build skills in hospitality and small business. I’m also passionate about social justice and want to support refugees, young people, immigrants, and others doing it tough.

Looking forward to making a difference together!

Learning Support Team

Miss Bethany
Barista Sista

Hi, I’m Bethany — I start my days early, up at 4 AM milking cows before joining the team to assist with our Barista courses.

Barista is my passion, and I love supporting students, making sure they feel welcome and confident as they learn. The students really connect with me, and I enjoy being part of their journey.

I’m dedicated to helping others and proud to contribute behind the scenes, creating a positive and encouraging environment for everyone.

Looking forward to continuing this great work together!

Mario Letizia Founder & Lead Trainer

Tiffany Letizia Director of Student Services & Accounts

Walter Letizia Mascot

Dale Smith Trainer & Assessor