We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Equanna Pearson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Equanna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
As a chef and a philanthropist, I can sometimes understand the pain hiding behind the smiles of those I serve. For many years, I smiled to hide my sadness. As a foster child, I longed to meet my biological mother. I was hesitant to trust, unable to form long-term relationships, and unwilling to open my heart to others. I was plagued by the fear that I would be abandoned or misunderstood.
In November 2013, my life underwent a profound transformation—the day I encountered my birth mother for the very first time. After a journey filled with hope and relentless search, my prayers were ultimately answered.
As I share my story with those I serve, I want them to realize that pain is not the end of the story.
As I grew up, I often observed my adopted family in the kitchen, surrounded by the enticing aroma of Caribbean spices and filled with the joyful laughter of our gatherings. Those moments always brought a smile to my face.
Now, as a chef, my goal is to recreate that sense of home for my clients. When they indulge in my culinary creations, I aim to evoke warmth and comfort, making them feel embraced from the inside out. I want their experience to be not just a meal but a moment of genuine joy.
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?
Quanna’s Kitchen is your neighborhood Catering Service, cooking all of your favorites with a hip new spin on traditional cuisine.
Since 2016, Quanna’s Kitchen has served the NYC community with delicious American and Caribbean flavors. Rooted in creativity, Quanna’s Kitchen presents distinctive tastes and haute cuisine worthy of the most distinguished palates.
Not only does Quanna’s Kitchen provide catering but we teach cooking classes to all. We may not have a kitchen yet, But when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
We aim to empower participants to not be afraid of the kitchen and open up their minds to the wonders of cooking and the importance of a well-balanced meal.
We seek to educate, support, and improve wellness in schools and communities to help students, adults, and families make healthful food choices.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Having an active Social Media presence has helped my business flourish and grow a community of supporters.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Having consistent was the key. I started selling plates out of my apartment in Harlem.
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