EatOkra recently launched its inaugural Culinary Creatives Conference, transitioning from a digital platform to an in-person gathering aimed at empowering Black food entrepreneurs. The event took place at the Metropolitan Pavilion in lower Manhattan, showcasing one of EatOkra’s largest initiatives to date.
Over the course of nine hours, attendees engaged in a variety of activities, including panel discussions, live cooking demonstrations, and food tastings, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and learning.
The conference served as a critical opportunity for Black food entrepreneurs to network and gain visibility within the industry. “This event has been years in the making,” said EatOkra CEO and co-founder Anthony Edwards Jr. “It represents the grand vision of fostering important conversations in our community—discussions around education, finance, and how we can build businesses together.”
Among the exhibitors was Michael J. Cole, owner of Mikey Likes It Ice Cream, who expressed enthusiasm about the event’s community-building aspect. “We’re showcasing ice cream here, and next to us is another brand,” Cole noted at his ice cream cart. “This opportunity allows us to learn from one another and expand our community. Today is really about building connections and creating a network that will enable us to flourish in the future.”
The conference emphasized inclusivity and representation, a sentiment echoed by Melba Wilson, an award-winning chef and owner of Melba’s Restaurant. “There are many spaces for others, but at EatOkra, we finally have a seat at the table in a house we built,” Wilson stated. “That’s important for our community.” Data from the National Restaurant Association underscores the significance of such events; only 9% of restaurants in the United States are Black-owned, highlighting the challenges faced by Black food entrepreneurs in a predominantly white industry.
Wilson identified insufficient funding as a major barrier for Black-owned food businesses, noting that many are undercapitalized and often lack access to crucial information and resources. “I’m going into my 20th year next year, and I’m still learning,” she said, emphasizing the need for ongoing education and support in the food industry.
The Culinary Creatives Conference aims to level the playing field by providing Black food entrepreneurs with invaluable support and resources. Edwards expressed his hope for the event, saying, “I want sales for my exhibitors, but I also want them to come away having met individuals who will help them six months or nine months from now. It’s all about putting them on the right path for the next step in their journey.”
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in dynamic discussions on a variety of topics, including the importance of financial literacy, marketing strategies, and the significance of community support. Panelists included industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs who shared their experiences and insights, providing valuable lessons for those looking to navigate the challenges of the food industry.
The conference also featured cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, offering participants the chance to learn new techniques and recipes while fostering a sense of camaraderie among food entrepreneurs. Taste-testing stations allowed attendees to sample a variety of culinary creations, showcasing the diverse flavors and talent within the Black culinary community.
As the conference drew to a close, participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and industry veterans. Many attendees left with new contacts, fresh ideas, and renewed motivation to pursue their culinary dreams.
The inaugural Culinary Creatives Conference marks a significant step forward for EatOkra and the Black food entrepreneurship community. By creating a platform for networking, education, and collaboration, the event not only highlights the richness of Black culinary culture but also emphasizes the importance of building a supportive ecosystem for future generations of food entrepreneurs. As EatOkra continues to champion these initiatives, the hope is to inspire lasting change and foster a thriving community in the food industry.
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