Today we’d like to introduce you to Juszina Kendrick.
Hi Juszina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Chef Juszina Maria. I was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. Cooking is my world. I was taught at a very young age. If you do something you love doing, then you will never work a day in your life. These were inspiring words from my grandmother.
Cooking to me brings me joy. When I see the smiles on people’s faces after they have tasted my cooking, it melts my soul. Oprah Winfrey once said we were all born with a purpose in life until we figure out our purpose. We would be able to create our own destiny. I am a firm believer in her words. I am an aspiring Chef and CEO of Classy Diva Catering in Indianapolis, IN.
I am also a mother of 2 grown sons, that I totally adore. They have given me the strength to keep going. They are my why. If I can motivate one person on earth, then my mission is done. I trusted God’s word and stepped out on faith and he never said our journey was going to be easy. I had to overcome several hurdles in life. One of them was during the pandemic. I became unemployed like the rest of the world. I realized when life throws you lemons, you have to make Lemonade in your situation. You either sink or swim. I decided to swim in what I knew best and that was cooking.
I was able to publish my own cookbook, called, “FAVA ” which is God’s Favor over my life. This cookbook went #1 on Amazon in the first couple of weeks. I have since been featured on Wish TV News 8 and WTHR Channel 13. I was also voted Top 25 Most Influential People in Hope Magazine for Women. I have been on several radio stations and have been invited to speak at several events like the Boss Babe Indy. All in God’s timing. I was humble enough during my trials and tribulations to create a positive cookbook. It has motivational messages, scriptures, and also a grocery list. Maybe this book can help someone get through their hard times.
I pray to have my own restaurant someday soon called Juszina Maria’s. I was chosen to be a Guest Chef through Pacers Restaurant & Entertainment. While cooking for the Pacers the first 3 days my gourmet bowls sold out at each game. Since being with the Pacers I’ve cooked at several events for them and also Indiana Fever. My business as a Chef has allowed me to travel to States like Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami cooking for a lot of prominent people.
Hopefully, my story can inspire someone and give them hope during there time of need. I am a living witness that trouble doesn’t last always. I’m just a lady from Gary, Indiana who had high hopes and big dreams. You have to believe in yourself even in your darkest moments. My favorite saying is faith without work is dead. Continue to be blessed and a blessing to someone! May God give you the desires of your heart!!!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The struggles along the way were becoming unemployed during the Pandemic like the majority of the world and trusting God’s word through the process.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am a Minority and Women Own Certified Business owner with the State of Indiana. I am also the CEO/ Owner of Classy Diva Caters, located in Indianapolis, Indiana. I Cater to Corporate and Professional Businesses. I also provide Personal Chef services and I teach cooking classes as well to the public.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Never compare yourself to others. We all have an assignment in life. No 2 assignments are alike. Your turn is definitely coming!
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.chefjuszinamaria.com.
- Instagram: Chefjuszinamaria
- Facebook: @chefjuszinamaria.com
