A young man from one of Western Australia's most remote Aboriginal communities has been named an ambassador for a youth culinary program blending cultural knowledge with kitchen skills.

Tyson McKay, from Blackstone Camp (Papulankutja) in the Ngaanyatjarra Lands, has grown up hunting and gathering bush foods with family at the foothills of the Blackstone Ranges.

From an early age, he says, food was tied to culture and storytelling.

"From seven years of age I would go hunting and gathering with my uncles, grandfather and brothers for goanna, bush turkeys, honey ants, maku and kangaroo to cook for family and friends' meals," Mr McKay said.

"I love spending time with family and learning about my culture and listening to Tjukurpa as food was being prepared, cooked and eaten."

Now, that foundation has led to his involvement in Prepare Produce Provide — a hands-on food education and hospitality initiative delivered to young people in remote communities.

The program focuses on practical kitchen skills and nutrition, while creating pathways into training and employment.

At the same time, it encourages students to draw on cultural knowledge alongside contemporary cooking techniques.

Last November, Mr McKay took part in the Djinda Ngardak Culinary Youth Camp, an intensive program bringing Aboriginal students together to cook and learn in a professional kitchen environment.

Organisers say the camp is designed to build confidence and strengthen future prospects, particularly in regions where access to structured training opportunities can be limited.

For Tyson, being named an ambassador reflects both his commitment and his connection to culture.

He says the program has strengthened friendships and created new opportunities through school — while keeping family, food and Tjukurpa at the centre.