The Town Kitchen was an idea born out of the brain of Sabrina Mutukisna. It is a community focused business in Oakland, California. Having grown up in a low – income, immigrant family, she had a unique perspective on what it was like to be a working youth in California. So, she decided to unite three of her passions – youth appointment, entrepreneurship, and food. Low income youth in the Oakland area are hired to work in a kitchen with professional chefs to make boxed lunches for businesses in the area. This idea is so fascinating to me because she took something so simple, the need for working people to have lunch, and the need for low-income youth to be employed, and put them together to offer a solution that is not only practical, but one that also makes an impact socially.
The youth that work at The Town Kitchen not only have to opportunity to work with professional chefs and learn about the food industry, they are also trained in entrepreneurial thinking and social justice. This business is having a direct impact on the youth of the community, increasing their likelihood of graduating from high school and college, and decreasing their likelihood of being incarcerated. The Town Kitchen is also having a direct impact on its local community. By using food that is locally grown and employing local youth, and by giving $1 for every $10 earned back into the community, this business is supporting its local economy.
I think the reason I am so inspired by this idea is because it is so simple. It is literally making lunches. However, it is done so well. There was a need and a gap that were seen in a different light than anyone else had seen them, and an incredible business was created. The commitment to serving others and caring for young people is also something I am passionate about. The Town Kitchen is not just interested in solving a problem that presents itself right now, it is a business that is seeking to create a sustainable solution.
I completely agree! I find it fascinating how successful a business can be with a simple twist. Catering is definitely not a new business, and Town Kitchen isn’t doing anything notable directly related to the service or food. All Town Kitchen did was add a social impact to their business, differentiating themselves simply in their positive effect on the community. While the company may not make anyone wealthy, it certainly has a profound and enormous impact that will not go unnoticed!