Black Girls Cook is Building Confidence and Power for the Next Generation
A 2024 Food Justice for Kids Prize recipient, Black Girls Cook aims to empower and inspire adolescent girls in Baltimore, Maryland, and Miami, Florida through food security, culinary arts, urban farming, entrepreneurship, and STEM, emphasizing Black Diaspora cultural histories and food practices. Founder and Executive Director Chef Nichole A. Mooney is our February Newmanitarian® of the Month!
What is a story from Black Girls Cook that has stuck with you?
A shy, hesitant girl with dyslexia joined Black Girls Cook and struggled with public speaking. Through the program, I saw her confidence grow by learning to cook and garden, gradually embracing opportunities to read recipes aloud and share her progress with others. Over time, her culinary and gardening knowledge flourished, and so did her self-assurance. Today, she serves as an ambassador for new girls in the program, guiding them with the same kindness and encouragement that helped her thrive… including my 7-year-old daughter, Madison.
In the spirit of Paul Newman, how are you “raising a little hell” in your community?
Black Girls Cook is “raising a little hell” by unapologetically amplifying the stories of the Black Diaspora through the lens of food history, even in the face of resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We’re reclaiming the stories of resilience that emerged from the transatlantic slave trade and turning them into tools for empowerment.
What brings you joy in your work at Black Girls Cook?
What brings me joy is seeing the girls connect with the rich legacy of the Black Diaspora through food. It’s deeply fulfilling to watch them light up as they learn about the cultural significance of the ingredients they’re cooking with and the stories behind the dishes they prepare.
