Chizomam Onyekuru- Catering Company

What’s your name and what do you do? My name is Chizomam Onyekuru and I’m a chef and the owner of Pearl’s Basket, a catering company. We specialize in catering for private gatherings as well as large events, and I have a particular passion for creating delicious canapés. I love bringing people together through food and making every event memorable with our culinary offerings.

This years theme is all about #acceleratingaction. What do you understand by this and how can we activate this in your respective space? The theme of #AcceleratingAction emphasizes the importance of taking concrete steps to promote gender equality and empower women across various sectors. In the culinary and catering space, this can be activated in several meaningful ways:

1. Support Women-Owned Businesses: Partner with and support other women-owned food businesses, suppliers, and vendors. This creates a network of support and encourages collaboration among women in the industry.
2. Mentorship and Training: Offer mentorship programs or workshops for aspiring female chefs and caterers. Sharing your knowledge and experience can help empower the next generation of women in the culinary field.
3. Create Inclusive Work Environments: Foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture that encourages women to thrive. This includes fair hiring practices, equal pay, and opportunities for advancement.

By taking these actions, we can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive culinary landscape, ensuring that women are recognized and empowered in every aspect of the food business.

Many women use fashion as a tool for building confidence. Can you share a time when a particular outfit  choice made you feel especially empowered? Absolutely! One time that stands out for me most recently was when I wore the denim tassel bubu from Nouva’s recently launched denim collection, for a significant catering event. I had spent weeks planning the menu and coordinating the details, and I wanted to convey professionalism and confidence to my clients and team.

When I put on that outfit, I felt a sense of empowerment wash over me. The denim bubu not only fit perfectly but also gave me a polished and versatile look that made me feel ready to take on any challenge. As I walked into the venue, I noticed that people responded to my presence with more respect and attentiveness.

That outfit reminded me that how we present ourselves can influence our mindset and the way others perceive us. It reinforced the idea that fashion can be a powerful tool for confidence, helping us to embrace our roles and showcase our capabilities. It was a great reminder that feeling good in what we wear can enhance our performance and presence, especially in a competitive field like catering.

Looking ahead, what kind of world do you envision for future generations of women, and what role do you believe you can play in creating that reality? Looking ahead, I envision a world where future generations of women have equal opportunities to pursue their passions and ambitions, free from barriers and biases. In the culinary space, this means a vibrant environment where women can thrive as chefs, entrepreneurs, and leaders, celebrated for their contributions and innovations. To contribute to this vision, I believe I can take several key actions:

1. Mentorship and Support: I can actively mentor young women and aspiring chefs, sharing my experiences and insights to help them navigate the culinary world. By providing guidance and encouragement, I can empower them to pursue their dreams with confidence.
2. Promoting Inclusivity: I can create an inclusive workplace that values diversity and fosters a culture of respect and collaboration. This includes implementing fair hiring practices, offering equal opportunities for advancement, and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
3. Advocacy: I can use my platform to advocate for policies that support women in the culinary industry, such as equal pay, parental leave, and resources for women-owned businesses. By raising awareness and supporting initiatives that promote gender equality, I can help create systemic change.
4. Highlighting Role Models: I can showcase the achievements of women in the culinary field through my business, whether by featuring female chefs in my events or collaborating with women-led food brands. This not only inspires others but also builds a community of support.
5. Community Engagement: I can engage with my local community by organizing workshops, cooking classes, or events that focus on empowering women, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. By providing skills and resources, I can help them build confidence and pursue culinary careers.

Ultimately, I believe that by fostering a supportive environment, advocating for change, and empowering the next generation, I can play a meaningful role in creating a more equitable and inspiring world for women in the culinary space and beyond.