Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Growing up, healthy food wasn’t accessible in my community, and I became a product of those unhealthy habits. As a Community Health Worker, I saw clients battling chronic disease while lacking the knowledge and access to eat better. I began helping them cook with what they had and bringing fresh produce when I could. That experience inspired my business, SIPSAVORSOUL which is to teach practical cooking skills, nutrition, and empower communities to make healthier choices for a better future

How do you stay motivated?

What keeps me motivated is the people I serve. Every class through SIPSAVORSOUL, I watch children, families, and seniors gain confidence and realize healthy food is possible. Even when funding is limited, their stories and progress push me forward and keep me motivated. This work is more than a business, it’s a ministry. I’m called to teach, uplift, and help communities break cycles of unhealthy living through food, education, and access.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I will expand SIPSAVORSOUL by establishing a nonprofit that provides free cooking classes to underserved communities. The funding will help supply participants with groceries and essential kitchen tools so they can successfully prepare healthy meals at home. It will also allow me to hire support staff, enabling us to partner with more schools, community groups, and health organizations. This investment will help break cycles of food insecurity and empower families to build heathlier communities.