The James Beard Foundation Legacy Network program trains emerging BIPOC leaders across the culinary industry and connects them with future generations of excellence. By developing and cultivating the capabilities among, and peer groups of, these influential professionals, Legacy advances the equitable, culturally relevant leadership required to strengthen the industry. The 2023 application period is open until August 6, 2023 and open to all BIPOC. Visit the program page for more information.
Below, Adjoa Kittoe, an alum of the 2022-23 Legacy Network cohort, shares her experience as an Advisee in the program.
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“Leadership” is a word that became more and more relevant for me in 2022. After over six years in the culinary industry, I knew a change had to occur not only in my professional life, but in my personal life, as well. I had learned about the James Beard Foundation’s (JBF) Legacy Network the prior year and wanted to be a part of a community of other leaders and tastemakers who understood that development is an ongoing process. I saw the lineup of talented, trail-blazing industry advisors and was enthralled. To share space with individuals like Adrian Lipscombe, Dr. Chris Wachira, and many more experts would be an honor. I applied and, much to my excitement, was accepted.
After being accepted into the Legacy Network, I found myself among a cohort of just as talented advisees. Over the past eight months, I have developed unforgettable bonds with both the advisors and advisees as we went through thought-provoking workshops, reflective assignments, and casual one-on-one check-ins. Despite all our sessions being held virtually, JBF and executive career coach Juliana Faus of On Purpose Talent provided a program that set me up for success.
At times, our sessions felt like uplifting pre-shift meetings. We shared words of encouragement throughout our regularly scheduled group calls. Our meetings involved deep dives into the ways we could overcome negative self-talk and silence our inner critics, which were not only necessary, but also proved to be incredibly valuable during our group calls. As someone who generally prefers to work through issues on my own, articulating both my strengths and weaknesses aloud was a challenge. But through the support of my advisors, I learned how to better advocate for myself. My assigned advisor, LaToya Larkin, exceeded my expectations. Not only did she support my business ideas, needs, and goals, but she also became a listening ear and go-to for day-to-day inquiries. Like many of the other advisors, chef LaToya’s unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the advisees was invaluable.
The Legacy Network attracted a cohort of self-starters. Many of us took it upon ourselves to meet outside of the scheduled meetings because of our excitement and pure dedication to fellowship. When one person didn’t have the answer, another did. We shared resources amongst ourselves, cheered our happiest moments, and celebrated the smallest steps as we continued to reach our various goals. This was unlike any other fellowship or business development program I’ve been a part of it. It went beyond hitting KPIs and attending educational sessions. Each person, regardless of their title or experience, shared their purpose. There were moments where I felt defeated and like I was hitting roadblocks in my career. Moments where I wasn’t sure if I belonged in the same space as those who had many restaurants and well-known brands. But with the guidance and love of this cohort, I was uplifted by both the JBF team and the On Purpose Talent experts. I was reminded that I, too, belong.
I was filled with excitement as I flew into Louisville, Kentucky on March 13 for the Legacy Network experiential trip at founding partner Woodford Reserve’s distillery. Finally, after what felt like a lifetime of waiting, I was going to meet all the advisors and advisees in person! As soon as we were united, it felt like a big family gathering. There were warm embraces, handshakes, and plenty of laughs to go around. Most of all, I was eager to explore the culinary wonders that Louisville had to offer and break bread with my newfound friends.
Thanks to this valuable network, I have been able to expand my portfolio of clients and events, reaching new heights in my career. In fact, before our memorable in-person gathering, I was approached by a company collaborating with Woodford Reserve for a special event to be held at the end of March. It turned out to be one of the most exceptional opportunities I’ve had the privilege to cater in a very long time. Together with food and spirit editors and writers, we explored the Kentucky Derby from my unique perspective, celebrating the launch of the Woodford Reserve 2023 Kentucky Derby 149 Bottle. I had the pleasure of dining with master distiller Elizabeth McCall, whom I met earlier during our trip to the Woodford Reserve Distillery trip with the Legacy Network.
The experience was surreal. I heard the voice of my advisor reminding me to share my talents. I heard the voice of our coach guiding me to remove all self-doubt and erase my inner critic. Armed with confidence, I walked into the room and delivered a resounding success. Without the incredible connections and tireless support of the Legacy Network, I don’t believe I would’ve had the chance to infuse my West African flair into a Kentucky Derby–inspired menu. I served up dishes such as suya beef tartare served on a plantain tortilla, bourbon–peach Agege bread pudding with cocoa butter crème anglaise, and the star of the show: jollof fried chicken and hush puppy waffles, which was demonstrated live.
As I reflect on this experience, I realize the pieces of advice I now share with people I meet on my journey are the very same words of wisdom I received from my advisors and peers in the Legacy Network. As I continue to work towards my goals every day, I am reminded of my purpose. The Legacy Network came right on time, during a time when a global pandemic nearly wiped away my passion for service and the lack of human connection almost shut down my spirit. The gifts I received from the Legacy Network are meant to be used inside and outside of the kitchen, and the transition from a deficit mindset to one of abundance was a process. But with the help of the Legacy Network, I have tools to carry with me for a lifetime.
Applications for the 2023-24 Legacy Network cohort are open until August 6, 2023. Apply as an Advisor or Advisee today!
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Adjoa Kittoe is a 2022-23 Legacy Network alum and founder of Seulful Pantry.
