Pronouns: He/Him
Current Town: Winooski, VT
Years in VT: 2
Industry: Hospitality
Business Name: Barbara Jean’s Southern Kitchen by Proper and Á Table Private Chef Services.
Business email and/or website: tasteofproperllc@gmail.com
Tell us a bit about your background.
Before arriving in Vermont, I worked as a culinary instructor for the department of labor. The program name was Job Corps servings at risk 16-24 yrs. I also worked for a k-12 foodservice provider, Southwest Foodservice. My role with this company was to train employees across the United States and develop recipes that met government nutrition guidelines.
What do you enjoy about being a business owner/professional of color in VT?
I enjoy how community is a big part of Vermont culture. Being a new restaurant owner here has been rewarding and humbling; people show up and enjoy the food experience I provide.
What opportunities do you see for your industry in the future?
I hope to have my brick and mortar in the new future to expand my concept.
In what ways could the community or state of VT support BIPOC in your line of work?
It would be helpful if there were access to guaranteed capital for business ventures to BIPOC. Although the government has put into place the SBA to allow access to funding for minorities, the requirements that banks impose on most BIPOC are unable to meet, thus the continuation of underserved entrepreneurs.
Why are you a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network?
I am a Vermont Professional of Color Network member for the community. Access to an organization that assists individuals who look like me is fantastic. I am a Ph.D. candidate in strategy and innovation, and one day would like to start my own nonprofit to help minority business owners. Being involved with the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, I hope I can help a fellow entrepreneur with business development.