A Game-Changing Culinary Academy Opens in Atlanta
Atlanta has just welcomed its first Black woman-owned culinary academy, a groundbreaking initiative that promises to shape the future of aspiring chefs. The Culinary and Hospitality Enthusiast of the Future (C.H.E.F.) Academy, founded by chef Simone Byron and hospitality expert Adeola Sokunbi, is more than just a training center—it’s a space dedicated to skill-building, mentorship, and community empowerment.
Situated in DeKalb County, this innovative institution offers chef courses, mixology classes, and hands-on experiences for culinary enthusiasts of all ages. With an emphasis on legacy-building, the C.H.E.F. Academy serves as an incubator for young chefs while also catering to experienced professionals looking to sharpen their skills.
Hands-On Training and Certification for Aspiring Chefs
The academy is designed to provide hands-on training that equips students with the skills needed to thrive in the culinary and hospitality industries. From knife techniques to baking, plating, and mastering diverse cuisines, students receive expert guidance from industry professionals.
Byron emphasizes the importance of structured training.
“We’re offering pasta-making classes, pairing sessions, and pastry-baking courses as part of an after-school program. Students can earn certifications through the American Culinary Federation (ACF), ensuring they receive recognized credentials for their skills,” she explained.
C.H.E.F. Academy goes beyond the basics by incorporating challenges and competitions that foster teamwork, creativity, and real-world experience. These elements help students build confidence while preparing them for successful careers in the food industry.
A Vision Rooted in Community and Tradition
Both Byron and Sokunbi bring personal and cultural passion to this project. For them, the academy represents more than just a business venture—it’s a mission to uplift and empower future generations in the culinary space.
Sokunbi, whose family history is deeply connected to hospitality, sees the academy as a tribute to the strong women in her life.
“To have the first Black woman-owned culinary academy in the Southeast makes me think about all the powerful women in my family. My grandmother was a cook, and I want to set an example for others like her,” she said.
Byron, whose culinary roots run even deeper, shares a similar sentiment.
“For me, this is a family legacy. My great-grandfather was the executive chef for the Black Star Line, Marcus Garvey’s ship. Hospitality has always been in our blood. I started in this industry at 17 and worked my way up through major organizations. This academy is a dream come true,” she shared.
More Than Just Cooking: A Hub for Creatives
While culinary training remains the academy’s primary focus, C.H.E.F. Academy also serves as a versatile space for the broader creative community. The founders aim to make it an accessible hub for those looking to explore various aspects of hospitality, from mixology to event hosting and even content creation.
“We welcome not just aspiring chefs but also creatives who need a space to bring their visions to life. Whether it’s filming a cooking show or hosting a food-tasting event, we want to support Atlanta’s thriving culinary and artistic scene,” Byron added.
The academy’s emphasis on community makes it a standout institution. By fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, C.H.E.F. Academy ensures that anyone passionate about food and hospitality has the resources to succeed.
Building a Lasting Impact
Since its grand opening, the C.H.E.F. Academy has already begun transforming lives. As an extension of Byron’s nonprofit, the Navigate Foundation, the academy continues its mission to provide opportunities for underrepresented youth in the hospitality industry. To date, over 200 students have graduated from the program, moving on to promising careers.
