EatOkra Celebrates Black-Owned Culinary Excellence.
As someone who has always believed in the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses, I was deeply inspired by the energy, innovation, and passion displayed at the event. From favorite local vendors to up-and-coming restaurants. It was an incredible opportunity to see, taste, and experience the creativity that defines Black culinary culture. However, as remarkable as the event was, I left feeling that there was room for greater community support. While the energy in the room was infectious, there is a need to see more people actively supporting Black-owned businesses, especially at events like this.
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EatOkra: Amplifying Black-Owned Culinary Excellence
For those unfamiliar with EatOkra, it is an app that has been revolutionizing the way we discover and support Black-owned restaurants and food businesses across the nation. Launched in 2016 by Anthony and Janique Edwards, the platform was born out of a desire to create a digital resource that would uplift Black culinary businesses and connect them to new audiences. What started as a local initiative has since grown into a national movement, boasting nearly 600,000 downloads and over 18,000 Black-owned food and beverage businesses listed nationwide.
Through strategic partnerships with industry giants like Uber Eats, Pepsi Dig In, and Apple Maps, EatOkra has created a ripple effect that goes beyond just showcasing restaurants. The platform has awarded grants to businesses, helping to strengthen the foundation of Black-owned establishments. These efforts were celebrated at the Culinary Creatives Conference, which served as a live extension of EatOkra’s mission to provide access, capital, and community to the businesses they champion.
One example of their powerful partnerships is the $100,000 in grants awarded in collaboration with Uber Eats to support Black-owned restaurants. It is initiatives like these that have made EatOkra a pillar of support within the Black food community. Empowering small businesses and consumers to contribute to the growth of Black entrepreneurship.
A Thrilling Adventure Through Culinary Creativity
The Culinary Creatives Conference was a vibrant, full-day event packed with programming that aimed to inspire, educate, and celebrate. Initially, the day was planned to be split into two key segments: Creatives Connect, running from the morning through early afternoon. And Culinary Conversations & Commune, which was meant to take over for the rest of the day.
However, in practice, the event took a more fluid approach, with the panels, tastings, and shopping happening concurrently. This structure allowed attendees to move freely between sessions and vendor spaces, creating a rich, dynamic experience that seamlessly blended education with indulgence.
The panel discussions, led by industry leaders like Denise Woodward of Partake and Margaret Nyamumbo of Kahawa 1893, shared invaluable insights on thriving as Black entrepreneurs in a challenging industry. The conversations highlighted resilience, creativity, and the power of community. And offered actionable advice to attendees. Meanwhile, food and beverage lovers explored over 75 Black-owned vendors, immersing themselves in the rich diversity of flavors, products, and culinary traditions on offer. This blending of education and celebration made the event an unforgettable experience, one that I am eager to support and see grow in the future.
EatOkra’s Engaging Panels
The event featured a series of engaging panels and fireside chats where industry leaders shared valuable insights into the challenges and successes of Black entrepreneurship. Jamila Wright, co-founder of Brooklyn Tea, took the stage with refreshing candidness and transparency, openly discussing the triumphs and struggles of her entrepreneurial journey. She emphasized the critical role that community plays in her success and candidly admitted that she still makes mistakes, making her story even more relatable. Her message reminded us that even in success, the learning never stops.”
Another standout speaker was Henry Obispo of Born Farm, whose eloquence captured the audience as he discussed what growth and expansion should be. And just as importantly, what it should not. He emphasized how growth looks different for every brand, and how staying true to one’s vision and goals, rather than being swayed by external pressures or trends, is key to long-term success. The wisdom shared by these leaders was not just theoretical. It was practical and empowering, providing concrete advice for navigating an industry that has historically marginalized Black voices and businesses.
Exploring New Gems: From Brooklyn to Boston
One of the standout moments for me was reconnecting with some of my favorite vendors and discovering new ones. Sweet Catch and HAAM, both beloved favorites, were there, representing the creativity and high standards I have come to expect from Black-owned food businesses. But some newer vendors surprised and delighted me. For instance, Shaquanda’s Hot Pepper Sauce, which I have often purchased at Whole Foods, was revealed to have its origins here in Brooklyn.
It was such an eye-opening experience to realize that something so familiar to me had deep local roots. It was born out of one of the very communities I once called home.
Another highlight was experiencing the natural and refreshing flavors of NOURRIR Sparkling Juice. Their offerings brought a unique twist to the beverage scene, with complex yet refreshing flavors that stood out even in a room filled with culinary excellence.
NYC, of course, was well-represented, but what truly added to the depth of the conference was the inclusion of vendors from beyond New York City. Hillside Harvest from Boston, Massachusetts, was a particular highlight. Their sauces brought bold, vibrant flavors that left a lasting impression on my palate. And underscored the fact that Black culinary creativity knows no geographical bounds.
A Call for More Community Support
As wonderful as the Culinary Creatives Conference was, I could not help but feel that there needs to be more consistent and widespread support for these Black-owned businesses. The event was a resounding success in celebrating the rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit of the Black community. However, it was clear that the turnout could have been greater, especially given the extraordinary talent and passion showcased throughout the day.
It is crucial that we, as consumers, not only attend these events but also continue supporting these businesses beyond the confines of a conference. Whether it is frequenting a local Black-owned restaurant, trying out a new Black-owned product, or simply sharing these businesses with our networks. There are countless ways we can uplift and sustain the vibrancy of Black cuisine. The Culinary Creatives Conference served as a reminder that supporting Black businesses is not just a trend. It is a commitment to ensuring the continued success and growth of an often overlooked but vital part of our community.
EatOkra: Shaping the Future with Culinary Creatives Conference and Its Impact
Looking ahead, I am excited to see how EatOkra’s Culinary Creatives Conference will grow and evolve in the coming years. The event has laid an incredible foundation for future gatherings. And I believe that with more exposure, support, and awareness, it has the potential to become one of the most significant food conferences in the country.
I also hope to see even more engagement from the broader community. Both in terms of attendance and participation. These events are more than just opportunities to taste delicious food. They are a chance to connect, learn, and contribute to a larger movement dedicated to celebrating and sustaining Black entrepreneurship and culinary excellence.
Highlighting Local Vendors: What’s Next
After attending the Culinary Creatives Conference, I am excited to spotlight several incredible local vendors from the event in my upcoming articles. These will showcase the unique products, stories, and innovations behind some of the incredible businesses that participated in the conference. From food to beverages, these vendors are a testament to the vibrancy of Black-owned businesses. And I am excited to dive deeper into their contributions to the culinary world.
Stay tuned as we highlight favorites like Brooklyn Tea, The Little Fat Gilr, Two Girls & A Cook Shop, Shaquanda’s Hot Pepper Sauce, and more in the coming weeks. These businesses deserve to be celebrated not just for their delicious offerings but for their commitment to community, creativity, and culture.
EatOkra Created A Space for Celebration, Reflection, and Growth
As I reflect on my experience at the EatOkra first-ever Culinary Creatives Conference, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such a powerful celebration of Black cuisine and creativity. Events like this not only showcase the immense talent within the Black community. But also remind us of the importance of supporting these businesses year-round.
EatOkra has created something truly special with this conference, and I encourage everyone—whether you are a foodie, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who loves to support Black-owned businesses—to get involved in future events. Together, we can ensure that the innovation, creativity, and passion that define Black cuisine continue to thrive and grow.
Until next time, let’s keep the momentum going by actively supporting and celebrating Black-owned businesses in our communities. The EatOkra’s Culinary Creatives Conference may have come and gone, but the journey to uplift Black culinary excellence is just beginning.