Empowering Women Chefs: MAPP Impact's Mentorship Luncheon

Baltimore, MD – September 26, 2023. It was a day filled with inspiration, mentorship, and a shared passion for culinary excellence as MAPP Impact joined hands with "Just Call Me Chef," a Baltimore-based community for women chefs, founded by the illustrious Chef Catina Smith. The event brought together emerging culinary talents and new CHANGEMAKER MAPP members Chef Nikk and Chef Chrissy, who had previously attended the 2nd stop of MAPP's roadMAPP 10-city live tour in Baltimore.

The luncheon was hosted at Mera Kitchen Collective, a neighborhood eatery that recently earned the distinction of being named one of the "Best New Restaurants" by Southern Living Magazine. Mera Kitchen Collective is a culinary gem co-founded by four culturally diverse individuals, with one of its co-owners, Aisha Alfadhalah, present at the luncheon.

Aisha began by sharing the heartwarming story of how Mera Kitchen Collective evolved from humble beginnings as a pop-up at local markets to a thriving brick-and-mortar establishment just two years ago. What sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to community outreach, preparing nearly 700 meals weekly for distribution to those in need across Baltimore. Their menu beautifully reflects the cultural backgrounds of each co-owner, creating a delightful tapestry of flavors.

Aisha Alfadhalah, MAPP Mentorship Coordinator and Chef Georgeann Leaming (a Food Network Alum), and Chef Catina Smith herself, founder of "Just Call Me Chef," took the reins as lead mentors for this special luncheon.

Chef Nikk, who spent 25 years at Marriott Hotels and is now charting a path as a private chef, sought guidance from Aisha. She expressed how MAPP has provided her with an invaluable support system and a network of like-minded women in food and hospitality. Chef Nikk's pursuit of her professional dreams was enriched by the mentorship program.

On the other side, we had Chef Chrissy, who currently works in the Under Armour cafeteria while also serving as a private chef on weekends. She was grateful to have discovered this opportunity through her affiliation with "Just Call Me Chef." The luncheon provided her with insights, encouragement, and a deeper sense of connection within the culinary community.

Following the luncheon, the women exchanged contact information as a vow to continue their connection and helping one another reach the next level in their careers.

MAPP Impact is deeply honored to continue hosting mentorship programs and events that empower women in the culinary and hospitality industry. If you're eager to get involved, whether it's hosting a luncheon, becoming a mentor, or sponsoring an event to further the cause of women in food and hospitality leadership, please reach out to us at hello@mappimpact.org.

To receive opportunities like these, become a MAPP CHANGEMAKER member.

Together, we're cultivating a brighter future for women chefs and professionals in the industry, one mentorship at a time.