Empowering Women in Food & Hospitality: MAPP Impact and I'll Have What She's Having Join Forces in Houston
On November 6, 2023, the thriving city of Houston, Texas became the epicenter of inspiration as MAPP Impact, in partnership with I'll Have What She's Having (IHWSH), concluded the 2023 roadMAPP 10-city Live Tour. Together, they presented a half-day conference for women in food and hospitality that delved into crucial aspects of health and conquering the fear of failure, a dream killer more potent than failure itself. One of the key takeaways from the event was the profound importance of women supporting women and, specifically, women-led organizations collaborating to serve and uplift all women in the food and beverage and hospitality industry.
A Gathering of Empowerment
The conference brought together women from the food and hospitality industry, offering a platform for open dialogue and transformative discussions. The event showcased panels featuring top industry leaders, while the culinary creations and beverages were the handiwork of local female-led businesses from the vibrant culinary scene of Houston.
The lineup of exceptional participants included:
- Ashley Rosenfeld of A la Carte Consulting Group
- Lindsay Rae of I'll Have What She's Having
- Chef Dawn Burrell from Bravo's Top Chef
- Anita Jaisinghani of Pondicheri
- Sarah Johnston of Fat Cat Creamery
- Sharon Hayes of Tacos a Gogo
- Joanna James Moschos of MAPP Impact and "A Fine Line"
- Mary Cuclis of Kriti Kitchen
- Chef Keisha Griggs of Kuji Kitchen
- Meredith Larke of Custard Market
- Liz Becerra of Johnny's Gold Brick
Strength in Collaboration
The partnership between MAPP and IHWSH has been nothing short of fruitful and rewarding, as demonstrated during this final stop on the roadMAPP 10-City Tour in Houston. IHWSH has cultivated a thriving community of women in Houston's hospitality and F&B industry, and MAPP's role in furthering this community's growth, fostering learning, mentorship, and lifelong friendships, is at the heart of their shared mission.
Houston was a fitting and symbolic choice for the tour's conclusion, as it marked a full circle return, four years after the initial stop. It showcased the remarkable progress made by both organizations in empowering and supporting women in leadership and ownership, while advocating for crucial needs in healthcare, wellness, childcare, and workplace policies.
A Commitment to Empowerment
MAPP is unwavering in its commitment to the aligned mission and, specifically, to its Houston supporters who are becoming MAPP Changemakers. This transition grants them access to the soon-to-be-released MAPP APP, educational resources, and mentorship meals, providing a platform for connection, engagement, and continued growth.
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors who share the commitment to gender equality and empowerment. A heartfelt thank you to San Pellegrino, Bacardi, Markham Vineyards, Dough Wine, and Delta Air Lines who not only sponsored the event but also gifted a $500 travel certificate to a conference attendee, contributing to the mission of providing more women with a seat at the table.
In the world of food, beverage, and hospitality, progress, empowerment, and unity were on full display in Houston, and the message is clear: when women support women, incredible things happen.
Follow @mappimpact on instagram and watch the event recap video here.
