ABOUT US
COOKING WITH AYANA -
WORLD CLASS FOOD
In 2017 “Cooking with Ayana LLC,” began as a pop-up kitchen and catering company. With a diverse cultural background, Chef Ayana's flavor profile is described as savory, a mix of traditional soul food and classic American street food. Her specialty dish and customer favorite are her "famous" wings.
In 2017, Chef Ayana experienced personal challenges and found food and cooking as a therapeutic way to mend her spirits. Inspired by those events, Chef Ayana endeavored to start her own culinary business by attending the Queen’s Library Jamaica Food-Entrepreneurship-and-Services Training-Space
(FEASTS) and the NYCHA Food Business Pathways program.
​
However, her culinary journey started long before
attending those programs. Already experienced in the kitchen, Chef Ayana wanted to make food to help the underserved community. Cooking with Ayana started as a cooking show on Chef Ayana's Facebook page. She wanted to demonstrate how a person could cook healthily without overspending, all while providing tutorials for those anxious about
cooking.
​
Certified in Mental Health First Aid with a degree in Mental Health Human Services, and Social Work with an emphasis in Child-Welfare, Chef Ayana wanted to combine her experiences and background with her newfound passion for food. “Through the power of food, I’ve been able to break down
barriers,” she said. “There’s a stigma associated with people of color seeking out mental health resources. With my business, I want to infuse the healing properties of food and
conversation (while using my social work skills), helping to distribute mental health resources and referrals to people.”
​
As the visionary behind Cooking With Ayana LLC, Ayana brings a wealth of experience in culinary education and chronic disease prevention. With a background at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), Ayana actively contributed to the Stellar Farmers Markets program, integrating culinary expertise with a passion for nutrition. Collaborating with GrowNYC and Green City Force, Ayana engaged in urban farming and sustainability initiatives.
As the owner of Namastayana, Ayana harmonizes culinary expertise with holistic well-being. This multifaceted background influences Cooking With Ayana, a culinary venture dedicated to preserving traditions, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering a healthier, more connected community through the art of cooking. Join Ayana in savoring the flavors of community, wellness, and shared joy, where every meal becomes a meaningful journey of connection and nourishment.
​
​
