I want to educate, inspire, and create cultural awareness through the power of storytelling and cuisine. My determination equals purpose.
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My grandmother (my North Star) inspires me when I cook, write, and teach. As a child in Guatemala, I watched her cook with love, patience, and deep respect for tradition. She made everything from scratch, filling our home with warmth, wisdom, and stories. Her kitchen was my haven. Her flavors live in my heart, mind, and palate. Because of her, I find peace, love, and purpose in my kitchen.
What's your all time favorite dish to make?Jocón is a dish deeply rooted in Mayan tradition, Guatemala’s history, and biodiversity. This velvety, mildly spicy chicken and tomatillo stew embodies the flavors of the highlands, where indigenous techniques and ingredients have thrived for generations. I love elevating Jocón with modern techniques while preserving its essence. Simple, hearty, and delicious, it offers the perfect platform to share Guatemala’s heart and soul through food.
What would you do with the $25,000?Winning would amplify my purpose/mission to educate, preserve, and unite through food. I’d further develop my product line/TV pilot to showcase Latin American food stories, and host events/experiences that foster awareness and inclusion. This prize would help me elevate Latin culinary traditions, reaching more people through storytelling, food, and education while creating a lasting impact beyond the plate and across communities.
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