This month’s member spotlight is on Jacqueline Thomas (she/her)! Jacqueline has been a proud resident of Vermont for 10 years and is based in Winooski. She works in the hospitality and tourism industry as the owner of Country Roads Jamaican Flair Catering Service & Jamaican Flair Event Space.
To learn more about Jacqueline’s work, visit countryroadsjamaicanflair.com or connect with her on Facebook.
Tell us a bit about your background before arriving in VT and what brought you to the state!
I studied Hospitality & tourism in my country Jamaica. Worked in the industry for 25 yrs, in various positions as follows ; server, bartender,supervisor, Food & Beverage Assistant Manager, Food & Beverage Instructor. I have worked 7. C and personally? I must say, I have gotten assistance from Vermonters in many ways. I have done pop ups, catered reggae shows, and they are always supporting . I have gotten huge help from CWE VT in starting my business. I think Vt has put things in and you share any strategies or resources that have helped you overcome these challenges? I strongly think my positive attitude is what keeps me going. Many times I feel like giving up , but I can notThe , because I believe in myself and my dreams.
How did you get into your career?
I got into the career when I was fifteen doing a holiday job at a restaurant. At the age of 18 I had my son. Being a single mom I had to make sure I made a difference in shaping his future . I had to get back into the industry, since that’s where the money was at the time. I further my studies in this field and was very happy with the industry.
Why are you a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network?
Because I would like to make a difference in the younger Black Women who are inspiring to do their own business.
What aspects of life in VT do you find most fulfilling? What about your professional life here stands out to you?
Simplicity and Gratitude. I admire how one can be happy by being simple at the same time appreciate nature for everything. Gratitude! This is Priceless.
Looking back, what advice would you have appreciated receiving about being a professional of color in VT before you arrived?
It’s hard for me to say, since as a Jamaican I did not understand how different it could be until I got here. Even if I had gotten advice I don’t think I would understand, as in Jamaica we are not looked down on. I had to go through it to understand.
What are some challenges that you’ve faced on a professional level since living in VT?
I have faced so many. Living in Vermont, where my level of experience in the hospitality industry is very uncommon. Therefore many are intimidated by my energy and experience that I display. They don’t even try to understand where I am coming from, why I do what I do, the way I do. It hurts and everyday I have to remind myself of who I am, so I won’t give up.
Tell us about the work you’re currently doing and what drives you in your profession!
I do private catering, and currently have a space @130 Church Street Burlington which I have been using as a multipurpose event space, for anyone to use for a small group or gatherings of any sorts.
What future opportunities do you see for your industry, particularly in the context of the state?
I really want to see my business grow so that I can mentor young BIPOC Entrepreneurs. I would like to host small classes in Fabric decor and more also.
Can you share an experience in VT that highlighted your cultural identity?
In My 10 years living in Vermont, I have worked at some amazing companies, which are as follows:The Stratton Mountain Club: Hostess, the Hermitage Club: Club /Restaurant supervisor,The Basin Harbor Club: Dining Room Captain / Banquet Captain. Sodexo (UVM) in- House Catering Supervisor, The DoubleTree by Hilton VT Banquet Captain and Manager. All these directors will say one thing about me. My positive attitude is one of a kind. I have done a cooking show with the Winooski Library in 2022 and was thankful for the spotlight. Was also featured in the Burlington Press in April of 2023 and am very grateful for that spotlight also. Then by WCAX at my space on church street. Very appreciative of the spotlight.
What role does community play in your life here, and how have you engaged with the local BIPOC community?
I have been to 2 networking sessions with the Bipoc community but haven’t done so much.
