chef Ayana
As the owner of Cooking With Ayana LLC, I bring a unique blend of educational and culinary expertise, coupled with a passion for community bonding and mental health advocacy. With a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Child-welfare, and an Associate degree in Mental Health & Human Services, I am well-equipped to understand the diverse needs of individuals and create meaningful connections through food experiences. As a culinary educator with a deep knowledge of Nutrition Education and Trauma-Informed Nutrition, I am dedicated to promoting the therapeutic power of cooking and its impact on overall well-being.
My commitment to mental health extends beyond my training as a Mental Health First Aid Responder. I have a genuine passion for elders, gained through my experiences working in Nursing Homes as a companion and dietary aide. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the importance of building trust and comfortability with those I serve, fostering an atmosphere of open conversation and support.
Cooking With Ayana LLC began as a humble endeavor, feeding neighbors, friends, and family, and quickly grew as word spread about the flavorful and soulful culinary experiences I offered. With a natural rapport-building ability and as a great conversationalist, I drew a following, particularly during dinner table conversations where guests felt comfortable sharing their struggles. Through these interactions, I discovered my unique ability to provide valuable information and support, a practice I wholeheartedly intend to carry forward in my food business.
With a focus on preserving ancestral recipes, promoting cultural heritage, and celebrating the power of storytelling through food, Cooking With Ayana LLC is more than just a culinary venture; it is a heartfelt expression of my passion for community, wellness, and the joy of connecting through the art of cooking.
We believe that food is medicine, and by going back to our sources and honoring our ancestral routes, we can not only enjoy delicious meals but also nourish our bodies and reclaim our health.
In both the Southern United States and the global diaspora, certain produce items play a significant role in culinary traditions. These ingredients not only reflect the diverse cultures of these regions but also offer a glimpse into the historical and cultural influences that have shaped their cuisines.
Cooking With Ayana LLC was born in 2017, out of the owner’s personal journey of healing and self-discovery, where she found solace and therapy in the art of cooking.
Chef Ayana is a community-focused, morally driven mental health advocate, Trauma-Informed Nutrition culinary educator & foster alumnus turned activist with lived experiences in poverty and food insecurity. The intention behind Cooking With Ayana LLC is to honor the often-overlooked pioneers of cuisine from the diaspora, particularly in the realm of soul food.
While soul food is beloved worldwide, it is essential to bring the individuals who spearheaded this culinary movement to the forefront, rather than solely enjoying their creations. Through our culinary creations, we seek to shine a spotlight on these hidden figures, paying tribute to their legacy and contributions to the rich tapestry of culinary heritage.
Our aim is to not only celebrate the flavors and traditions they have passed down but also to share their stories.
We honor the innovative and intentional practices of our ancestors, including the Gullah Geechee peoples, who lived sustainably and practiced mindful, conscious eating.
Living near water, the Gullah Geechee peoples enjoyed fish as a staple in their diet. In Africa, where refrigeration was limited, our ancestors were incredibly resourceful, utilizing every part of the animal through curing, smoking, drying, and salting methods of preservation, including the creation of saltfish cod. This tradition of zero waste practices extends beyond the Gullah Geechee culture to Caribbean and indigenous tribal communities like the Cherokee, Blackfoot, and Seminoles, who also embraced these sustainable practices. By incorporating these traditions into our menu, we not only celebrate our heritage but also promote sustainability and respect for the environment. All our ingredients are sourced from BIPOC farmers and vendors, ensuring that our meals are not only delicious but also culturally rich and environmentally conscious.
