On a trip to Mexico City, my life took an unexpected turn.
While getting a hair makeover, a chance conversation led to a new opportunity. The previous day, my photography had impressed someone.
When opportunity knocks, you don't ignore, you seize it. I found myself affirming my identity as an artist with a photography website.
Enter the CMR Group, owners of big brands like Olive Garden and Capitol Grill. An accidental meeting led to an invitation to join them on a mission three and a half hours from the city, in rural Mexico.
The goal was to equip the local community with resources and education to grow organic vegetables. This was not just about food, but about creating a sustainable cycle.
A brainwave led to the idea of a community recipe contest with a top chef as the judge.
The winning recipe would be featured in a restaurant and printed on bags, with proceeds going back to the community.
The company loved the idea, and the happiness it brought the community made the effort worthwhile.
Later, the Founder Institute offered me the role of co-director in the East Bay.
As I embraced these responsibilities, the idea for NextGen Chef emerged.
Guiding others to launch their businesses felt like a calling, leading to the birth of NextGen Chef.
This venture symbolizes my dedication to fostering innovation, empowering entrepreneurs, and transforming communities through the shared love of better-for-you and better-for-the-planet-food.
From a spontaneous idea in a Mexican village to establishing NextGen Chef, this journey captures the spirit of entrepreneurship.
It is about seizing opportunities, engaging with various communities, and striving to make a positive difference.
This isn't just my founder's story; it's a testament to the power of passion, collaboration, and the potential of every idea to change the world.
How about you, what’s your founder’s story, I would love to hear it.
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Hi, I’m Justine Reichman, your friendly neighborhood, Founder & CEO of NextGen Purpose and Host of the Essential Ingredients Podcast
Our mission is to boost driven, forward-thinking folks & and initiatives in the regenerative food scene.
Follow along for more.
#FoodInnovation #RegenerativeFood #SustainableEats
Senior HR Generalist @ MullenLowe US
1moChief Smoothie Officer! Brilliant! 👏🏼