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We spoke with CAFC Youth Ambassador, Michelle—President, CEO, Head Chef of MNR Catering and recently profiled in Forbes—about this year’s Black History Month theme: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries, what it means to her personally, and how it reflects her journey, aspirations, and lived experience as an entrepreneur.
Q: This year’s Black History Month theme honours both legacy and leadership. As a young Black entrepreneur, what does “Black brilliance” look like to you today, and how do you see yourself carrying it forward?
A: “To me, Black brilliance is resilience, creativity, and excellence rooted in purpose. It is the ability to transform adversity into opportunity and to lead with authenticity while carrying the stories, sacrifices, and strength of those who came before us. Black brilliance shows up in innovation, in community building, and in the courage to dream beyond the limitations that society has historically placed on us.”
“I see myself carrying that brilliance forward by building a business that represents more than food. Through MNR Catering, I strive to create experiences that bring people together, celebrate culture, and inspire others, especially young Black women and youth in care, to believe that their circumstances do not define their potential. I carry it forward by mentoring, by sharing my story openly, and by ensuring that success for me always includes creating opportunities for others.”
Q: Every visionary stands on the shoulders of those who came before them. Is there a Black mentor, role model, or “nation builder” whose example grounds you, especially during uncertain moments?
A: “While there are many historical figures whose legacies inspire me, my grounding often comes from the everyday Black women in my life who have demonstrated strength in quiet but powerful ways. Women who navigated systemic barriers while raising families, supporting communities, and creating stability where there was very little support.”
“Their perseverance reminds me that success is not just about personal achievement, but about endurance, faith, and lifting others while climbing. When I face uncertain moments, I reflect on the sacrifices made by those before me who pushed forward despite far greater obstacles. Their resilience reminds me that quitting was never an option for them, and it cannot be an option for me either.”
Q: Your brilliance shows up not just in your talent, but in your leadership. Is there a bigger vision behind your catering business, and what do you want people to understand about who you are and what you’re building?
A: “The bigger vision behind my catering business is impact. MNR Catering was built not only as a business but as a platform for empowerment, mentorship, and community connection. Food is a universal language, and I use it as a tool to bring people together while also creating employment opportunities and pathways for individuals who may feel overlooked or underestimated.”
“I want people to understand that behind every dish is a story of resilience, healing, and determination. I am building a legacy that my children can be proud of. One that shows them that success is possible through hard work, integrity, and community investment. I am also building a business that challenges stereotypes and demonstrates that Black entrepreneurship thrives in excellence, professionalism, and innovation.”
Q: From your lived experience, what does meaningful support for Black children and youth in care look like, and where can organizations like Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada do better?
A: “Meaningful support for Black children and youth in care begins with representation, cultural understanding, and long-term mentorship. Many youth in care struggle with identity, belonging, and stability. Having access to mentors and professionals who reflect their lived experiences can be incredibly empowering and life-changing.”
“From my lived experience, meaningful support for Black children and youth in care starts with access to education, mentorship, cultural understanding, and long-term guidance into adulthood.”
“What worked for me while I was in care was having access to educational resources that helped me pursue college. I received scholarships, grants and bursaries while studying law, which helped remove financial barriers and allowed me to focus on building my future. I also benefited from Independent Living supports, which were extremely helpful as someone who aged out of care. The financial support I received from my 18th birthday until I turned 21 helped ease some of the financial burdens that many young adults face while trying to establish stability.”
“However, one of the biggest gaps I experienced was navigating adulthood without parental guidance. Many youth in care face barriers because they do not have parents or family members to teach them financial literacy, career navigation, entrepreneurship, or life decision-making skills. I do wish there were more long-term resources and mentorship opportunities that focus on helping youth transition successfully into adulthood, not just survive, but truly thrive. Continued culturally informed mentorship, career exposure, and extended support systems would make a meaningful and lasting impact. Organizations can continue to improve by investing in long-term mentorship programs, culturally relevant support systems, and pathways that extend beyond immediate care into sustainable adulthood success.”
Q: Running a catering business looks glamorous from the outside. What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about?
A: “One thing people would be surprised to learn is how much truly goes into executing a single catering order and how physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding the industry can be. Beyond the finished presentation, there is extensive planning and coordination that includes sourcing and purchasing ingredients and supplies, prepping, seasoning, cooking, packaging, organizing labour, managing transportation logistics, setup, and post-event cleaning.”
“There are many moving parts and significant behind-the-scenes efforts that clients don’t always see, which is why quality catering services require time, skilled labour, and careful execution. Behind the beautiful presentations and successful events are extremely long hours, sleepless nights, constant problem-solving under pressure, and personal sacrifice.”
“Entrepreneurship also requires balancing family life and business responsibilities at the same time. As a mother growing my family while growing my business, I am continuously learning how to navigate both roles with intention and resilience. It requires discipline, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in your purpose, even on the most challenging days.”
