We recently connected with Neva LaRue and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Neva, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?

I spent 13 years in the public education sector as a high school culinary teacher, a job that I will always hold close to my heart. But boy, oh boy, are there some things that could change. The first thing I would change is to get rid of standardized tests and include more project based learning. Not all kiddos are great test takers and that shouldn’t reflect their other academic accomplishments.

I think Career and Technical Education (CTE) should be highlighted and pushed just as much as your standard courses. These CTE courses allow for students to learn life long skills and earn certifications to carry with them. It’s a win win situation! I could talk about the benefits of CTE courses all day, but that will do for now!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have always had a love for food and the culinary/hospitality world. I have spent years in restaurants, kitchens, and educating kiddos on all things food! I spent 13 years teaching high school kiddos – which is ultimately how I got to where I am today. After quite a bit of persuading, some of my students convinced me I should start an Instagram account to highlight my food finds. Now, I use my platform to highlight places I’ve been and the good (or bad) that I experienced. You’ll also find lots of product recommendations and reviews, from tequilas to spices to cooking equipment. If it has to do with food or cooking, I’m all about it! Heck, you might even find a recipe or two on my page that are easy to follow, full of flavor and perfect for beginners!

I’m most proud of myself for turning a hobby into something so much more! I never thought when I began my influencer and creator journey that I would be doing all that I do today. I spend my days creating content for brands, checking out the best food around the country, and highlighting some of the great local cuisine Portland has to offer.

Some of my most recent accomplishments I have are around a new niche of mine; hosting! I recently completed a web-series where I am highlighting some awesome Black owned restaurants in Houston, TX and Maryland. I also have recently been asked to film a local show highlighting authentic cuisine of various cultures all around Portland. You’ll have to follow me on Instagram for the official launch!

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I’m still working to build my audience every day, it feels like a job in itself some days! I work hard to be authentic, honest and relatable to my audience. I try my best to provide recommendations of brands and restaurants that are worth the business and earning your hard earned money!

My advice to those just starting out; stay encouraged and have thick skin! For some, growing on social media is a slow crawl, it definitely doesn’t just happen over night for everyone! It takes a lot of creative thinking, researching and energy, but if it’s. a goal of yours, then it’s worth it!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I get to be my authentic self. I’m allowed to be me, every day. Not only do I get to be myself, I get to highlight some great brands and the people behind them. I feel honored that people trust my voice when it comes to recommendations on where to eat or what items to buy on your next grocery run. I don’t take that for granted.

The next best thing about being a creative is I get to set my own schedule. Some days I’m energized and ready to go, some days I’m chilling on the couch, ignoring everybody and living my best life! It’s all about balance.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nevafinds.com
• Instagram: @nevafindsfood
• Facebook: @nevafindsfood
• Twitter: @nevafindsfood
• Youtube: @nevafindsfood

Image Credits
Personal photo: Olivia Martens of Olivia Martens Photography