07/26/2026
There are two things our Culinary Arts Club loves: learning new recipes... and pretending they don't eat vegetables. 😂
This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Chef Ms. Marlene, who stopped by Black Men Achieve at the request of our Culinary Arts Club to teach our youth how to make authentic Shrimp or Chicken Rasta Pasta—and she absolutely did not disappoint!
Chef Marlene shared her passion for the restaurant industry, spoke about her Jamaican heritage, and introduced our young chefs to the skills, discipline, and opportunities that come with careers in the culinary and hospitality industries. She reminded them that cooking is more than making great food—it's a career that can take you around the world or even help you own your own restaurant one day.
Our youth stepped up to the challenge, learning knife skills, seasoning techniques, and working together as a team. They carefully chopped up peppers, onions, and other fresh vegetables like professional chefs...
..only to announce they weren't actually going to eat them! 🤦🏾♂️😂 Since when don't teenagers eat peppers and onions after spending all that time cutting them up?
Despite the "vegetable boycott," every team created a delicious version of Rasta Pasta with their own unique spice level. Some played it safe, while others tried to set everyone's taste buds on fire!
Of course, Mr. Jermayne had the difficult job of serving as the official taste tester and judge. (It's a tough job, but somebody has to do it!)
A huge thank you to Chef Ms. Marlene Henry for pouring into our youth, sharing your culture, your knowledge, and inspiring the next generation of chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals.
