For me, food is more than mere sustenance. It’s a testament to my humble Harlem beginnings, to our laughter-filled family dinners, to the cherished memories shared over a lovingly prepared meal. It’s a celebration of our shared humanity — our intrinsic need for connection, for belonging, for that profound assurance that we matter in this vast cosmos.
The significance of food in my life cannot be overstated—it has been both my refuge and my muse. I was the girl who felt a sense of wonder each time I marveled at the dishes that sprang forth from the loving hands of the black and brown women in my community. They were the unsung heroes, who with every meal, nurtured, fed, and raised our community and culture. Standing on their shoulders, I've been propelled into the culinary spotlight, clinching historic wins on Food Network's Chopped and Chopped Champions, and tantalizing taste buds of celebrities across the globe.
Navigating the culinary realm is no small feat, but it was within its bustling kitchens and aromatic corners that I truly discovered my voice and purpose. My culinary ascent wasn't always flavored with international acclaim and glistening trophies. In a crucial chapter of my life, spanning five arduous years, I chose to recede from the public eye, dedicating my heart and soul to the care of two pillars in my life – my mother and my cherished aunt. Both these remarkable women, sources of unwavering strength and love, faced the fierce storm of cancer. Watching their bravery, resilience, and boundless love, even in the face of such adversity, bolstered my spirit, infusing me with a renewed vigor to move forward.
Cancer is a cruel tempest, leaving scars not just on the body, but deeply imprinting the mind and soul of everyone within its grasp. It was during this trying period, cocooned in the embrace of my close-knit family, that I truly comprehended the healing power of food and its unparalleled role in fostering connections. This hiatus, though emotionally taxing, became the cocoon for my rejuvenation, rekindling the flames of my culinary passion. As I tread forward, every dish I craft, every experience I curate, is a tribute to my mom and aunt - two irreplaceable souls who poured boundless love and wisdom into me. With every plate, I endeavor to pour that same love back into the world, creating a legacy of nourishment and connection.
Every dish I craft is a love letter. A homage to the black and brown women before me who, with hands aged by time and tales, nurtured generations, wove traditions, and built robust communities. These matriarchs, with their boundless love and strength, turned simple ingredients into feasts of emotion and heritage. I am their legacy, and with every plate I serve, I celebrate them, ensuring their stories and flavors live on.
Reenergized, with a heart full of wonder and a hunger to explore further, I am here once again, inviting you on this shared culinary journey. Together, let’s delve into the magic of food, experience its transformative power, and cherish the moments it creates.
