Atlanta is now home to the first Black woman-owned culinary academy, a groundbreaking initiative set to reshape the hospitality industry. Founded by chef Simone Byron and business owner Adeola Sokunbi, the Culinary and Hospitality Enthusiast of the Future (C.H.E.F.) Academy officially opened its doors in DeKalb County on September 5, 2024. This innovative space aims to empower aspiring chefs and creatives while honoring cultural traditions and fostering community.
A Game-Changer for Atlanta’s Culinary Scene
The C.H.E.F. Academy is more than just a culinary school—it’s a hub for creativity and skill-building. Located at 1927 Lakeside Parkway in Tucker, the academy offers hands-on training in knife techniques, baking, plating, and cooking methods from various cuisines. Students can also participate in mixology classes, pasta-making workshops, and pastry courses.
“We’re doing pairing classes, pasta-making classes, and even after-school programs for young people interested in baking,” said Byron. The academy also partners with the American Culinary Foundation (ACF) to provide certification programs, ensuring students leave with recognized credentials.
Building on a Legacy of Empowerment
The C.H.E.F. Academy is an extension of the Navigate Foundation, a nonprofit Byron founded in 2017. Since its inception, the foundation has graduated 200 students, many of whom come from underrepresented communities. The academy builds on this success, offering a space for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore their culinary passions.
“This is not just a graduation; it’s a birthing of something new,” Byron explained. “We’re creating opportunities for people who might not otherwise have access to this kind of training.”
A Personal and Cultural Mission
For both Byron and Sokunbi, the academy is deeply personal. Byron’s great-grandfather was the executive chef for Marcus Garvey’s Black Star Line, and her family has a long history in hospitality. Sokunbi, whose grandmother was a cook, sees the academy as a way to honor her family’s legacy while inspiring future generations.
“To be the first Black woman-owned culinary academy in the Southeast is a huge responsibility,” Sokunbi said. “It’s about showing young people, especially young Black women, that they can make waves in this industry.”
Fostering Community Through Food
At its core, the C.H.E.F. Academy is about more than just cooking—it’s about building connections. The academy hosts community events, competitions, and workshops designed to bring people together. Whether you’re a budding chef, a creative looking for a filming location, or someone who simply loves food, there’s a place for you at C.H.E.F.
“We’re curating classes that foster community,” Byron said. “It’s about sharing knowledge, celebrating culture, and creating opportunities for everyone.”
How to Get Involved
The C.H.E.F. Academy is already making waves in Atlanta’s culinary scene, and there are plenty of ways to get involved. Visit www.thenavigateprogram.org for more information or follow the academy on Instagram @chefacademyatl.
For Byron and Sokunbi, this is just the beginning. “We’re here to inspire, educate, and empower,” Byron said. “This is our legacy, and we’re excited to see where it takes us.”
