Today we’d like to introduce you to Keiona Jackosn
Hi Keiona, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In October 2010, while employed at G.E. Aviation, I was terminated over a safety issue, despite no fault of my own; it stemmed from a disagreement with my boss in front of his colleagues. Concurrently, I catered events, which inspired me to enroll in culinary school. I excelled and graduated from L’École Culinaire with honors. Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful to my former employer; his decision to terminate me pushed me to overcome my fears and wholeheartedly pursue my culinary passion.
After graduating from culinary school, I advanced through the ranks in local restaurants in the New Orleans and Memphis areas, ultimately settling in Oxford, MS. There, I made history as both the first African American and the first female Executive Chef, overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
Today, I stand as the proud CEO of Kei Gourmet, Co-founder of JB Culinary Holdings, Co-founder of Mississippi Culinary Occupational Institute, a Celebrity Personal Chef, a traveling Executive Taskforce Chef, a consultant, and a mentor to aspiring food entrepreneurs. I am deeply honored and thankful for the numerous blessings God has granted me. My achievements are not a matter of luck but the result of faith and the support of a remarkable team of leaders who have believed in me, offering guidance, encouragement, and tough love.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This journey has been challenging. I’ve had to confront imposter syndrome, sexism, racism, and health challenges, including diagnoses of three chronic conditions: lupus, fibromyalgia, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Additionally, I was involved in a severe car accident in 2022, which I feared might end my career. At the peak of my professional life, it all nearly came to a halt when someone ran a red light, striking my car and causing a broken back and hip.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
JB Culinary Holdings is my latest venture, and I’m thrilled to introduce it to the world. At JB Culinary Holdings, we aim to offer transformative opportunities to those in the restaurant industry or aspiring restaurateurs. We plan to bestow a restaurant space complete with business consulting and mentorship, along with the essential resources to guarantee their success. Additionally, we’re launching the Mississippi Culinary Occupational Institute to train, educate, motivate, and inspire a new generation of culinary talents. What fills me with the most pride is the impact we’re making on individuals who may have never believed their dreams could become a reality..
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keigourmet2020
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keigouremet
