We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Niya Johnson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Niya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?

Reflecting on the influences of my parents, I can definitely see how their approach shaped my journey as a business owner and chef. They instilled in me values of hard work, creativity, and resilience.
One key lesson came from my Mom, and 2 grandmas, who are incredible cooks. they believed in the power of food to bring people together. I remember when I was younger, my mom and grandmothers would alternate on who was hosting for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The kitchen was a whirlwind of activity, and I ALWAYS wanted to help. They would let me peel and chop vegetables, taught me how to season everything, how to mix and incorporate flavors in order to make incredible dishes, all the while explaining the importance of each ingredient and the stories behind the dishes. That experience not only ignited my passion for cooking but also taught me the joy of sharing meals and creating connections through food.
My Dad, on the other hand, was a police officer. Growing up, he often shared stories about the importance of integrity, responsibility, and community service. Watching him navigate life as an of officer, now retired, taught me that genuine relationships and communication are vital, not just in law enforcement but in all aspects of life. His dedication to serving and protecting his community inspired me to foster a similar approach in my own catering business. I prioritize understanding my customers’ needs and creating an atmosphere where everyone feels valued and heard. This commitment to connection and integrity continues to shape my work and the experiences I aim to provide. P.S. My dad was not a bad cook either. I learned to make a good breakfast from him.
Overall, their emphasis on passion, integrity, and the importance of relationships continues to guide my work every day. Those foundational lessons are what keep my love for cooking alive and help me navigate the complexities of running a business with purpose and heart.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a determined and a hardworking entrepreneur who turned a personal challenge into a thriving catering business. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis during my freshman year of college, I faced significant obstacles, but I refused to let that define me. With unwavering dedication, I graduated with a B.S. in Finance from Morgan State University, proving that resilience and passion can triumph over adversity.
During my college years, I discovered my love for cooking as a creative outlet. I began experimenting with various recipes, often catering to the culinary needs of my friends. This exploration ignited my passion for comfort soul food, infused with the vibrant flavors of seafood. It became clear to me that food was more than just nourishment; it was a way to bring people together and create lasting memories.
My catering business focuses on providing delicious, heartfelt meals that cater to both comfort and sophistication. I solve problems for my clients by offering unique menu options that blend traditional soul food with fresh seafood, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a special event, a family gathering, a corporate function, or for Non Profit organizations. I pride myself on delivering an experience that resonates with warmth and flavor.
What sets me apart is my commitment to quality and connection. I tailor my services to meet the specific needs of each customer. My goal is not just to serve food but to create an experience that fosters community and joy.
I’m most proud of how far I’ve come despite the challenges I’ve faced. My journey has taught me resilience, creativity, and the importance of connection, which I pour into every dish I create.
To potential clients, followers, and fans: I want you to know that my brand is built on authenticity and passion. When you choose my catering services, you’re not just getting a meal; you’re embracing a celebration of flavors, stories, and shared experiences. Together, let’s create something memorable that brings comfort and joy to your table.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the fear of putting myself and my business out there. Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I was constantly worried about how my catering business would be perceived. I feared that if I shared my story or showcased my offerings, people might judge my work or see it as less successful than I hoped.
The backstory goes back to my college days. Balancing my studies with my health challenges made me hesitant to fully embrace my passion for cooking and catering. I worried that if I put myself out there, I would face criticism or, worse, failure. This fear kept me from sharing my dishes, promoting my services, or even engaging with potential clients.
However, as I grew more confident in my abilities and began receiving positive feedback from friends and family, I realized that vulnerability could be a strength. I started sharing my culinary creations on social media, and to my surprise, people responded with enthusiasm. It became clear that my story resonated with others, and my unique blend of comfort soul food and seafood filled a niche that many appreciated.
Unlearning this fear has transformed not only my business but also my personal outlook. I’ve embraced the idea that success isn’t just about the end result; it’s also about the journey and connections I make along the way. Now, I proudly share my passion and work with the world, knowing that authenticity and perseverance will attract the right audience.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best sources of new clients for my catering business have been social media and word of mouth.
Social media has allowed me to showcase my culinary creations, share my story, and connect with a wider audience. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Tik Tok are perfect for highlighting the vibrant dishes I create, as well as the heartfelt experiences that accompany them. I’ve been able to engage with potential clients directly, answer questions, and build a community around my brand.
Word of mouth has also played a crucial role. When clients enjoy my food and services, they naturally share their experiences with friends and family. Personal recommendations carry a lot of weight, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how one happy client can lead to another opportunity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/Niyaskitchen
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niyaskitchen/