North Charlotte Today

Published on March 14, 2024

The City of Charlotte's Housing and Neighborhood Services department recently held an inspiring event aimed at guiding young individuals towards exploring diverse career paths. The Alternatives to Violence (ATV) Culinary Day brought together various organizations to provide hands-on experience and valuable insights into the culinary arts field.

Dr. Raquishela Stewart, Deputy Director of Housing and Neighborhood Services, expressed the event's purpose of enlightening young people about the array of opportunities available to them. Stewart highlighted the goal of making such events a regular occurrence, focusing on different communities in Charlotte and introducing multiple career options that may not have been previously considered.

Chris Campbell from Inlivian emphasized the significance of events like the ATV Culinary Day, stating, "Many kids just don't know the different opportunities that may be out there." Campbell highlighted the potential for a career in the culinary arts stemming from an interest in cooking, providing young individuals with a realistic path and perspective on pursuing their passion.

During the event, Chef Geo of Urban Sauce Connection shared his passion for cooking and the universal language of food. "Food is the universal language," Chef Geo stated, emphasizing how food can bring communities together and facilitate communication. He imparted valuable lessons to the young chefs about the health benefits of various ingredients, inspiring them to explore their culinary interests.

The success of the ATV Culinary Day was attributed to the collaborative efforts of partners such as Inlivian, Urban Sauce Connection, and Food Lion. Inlivian provided the space and kitchen for the event, while Food Lion supported by contributing to the purchase of ingredients. Chef Geo's expertise and enthusiasm for cooking were evident throughout the day, motivating the young participants to delve deeper into the world of culinary arts.

Events like the ATV Culinary Day play a crucial role in shaping the future careers of young individuals, introducing them to opportunities they may not have previously considered. Through hands-on experiences and guidance from industry professionals, these events pave the way for a new generation of culinary enthusiasts to explore their passions and potential career paths.