We had the good fortune of connecting with Avane Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Avane, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
My dad has been in the music industry for well over 40+ years. One of the things that my dad has always reminded me is that “No one in life owes you anything.” and “Your only focus is to remain focused.” I live by that everyday. It reminds me how hungry I have to be for this in order to accomplish my goals.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Professionally, I work full time alongside LA County Probation with a nonprofit that assists formerly incarcerated adults find housing. We provide case management, employment and housing services. I’ve worked in this field for over 11 years. I started out in parole and transitioned into substance abuse counseling and now my current position with providing housing for homeless probationers.

This job is definitely not for the week. One of the things I always say that makes this job difficult is that everyday I get to go home to my family and have shelter and I have to remember my Client’s that are not as fortunate to have the same. Working hard to find my Client’s and their families housing and provide them with the best services possible is very important to me.

Daily, I acknowledge the fact that there are so many people throughout the LA area that are not as fortunate as I am. I strive to show my clients that they are as deserving as I. I stress to my clients that there is always an opportunity awaiting them, they just have to dig into their hearts to discover what drives them. If 2020 taught me anything, it is that as quickly that something is given to you is just as quick as it can be taken away. I treat my Client’s no different than I would treat my friends or loved ones. I try to speak life into them. Sometimes I am the first person to have ever believed in them so I try to keep it a good rapport with them and assist them with building their confidence.

In addition to my 9-5 I also own a Jamaican Cross Culture Cuisine Catering company called “Kyngston Kytchen.” I have had Kyngston Kytchen for 6 years. I started by doing small pop ups in my hometown of Denver, CO and then transitioned to events in LA. I have catered for people such as Tiffany Haddish, Mario Van Peebles, and Wyclef just to name a few. My goal is to one day be able to connect my passion for cooking and my passion for the justice system and be able to provide culinary jobs to those coming out of incarceration

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a water baby. Balboa Island is probably one of my favorite places to drive to and just get away and clear my mind. I live in downtown LA so sometimes getting out of the city is what I need. When my friends come, (and they frequently come visit) it definitely a journey. Some of my favorite food stops include Sunday Brunches at Sagebrush Cantina in Calabasas, Silverlake Ramen and NOW MY NEW RESTAURANT “KYNGSTON KYTCHEN SEAFOOD + JERK HOUSE.” We are located at 3625 S. Western Ave. Available on Uber Eats, Postmates and Grub Hub.

We are definitely partying at Los Globos or El Cid in Silverlake or Catch One. People watching at Venice is definitely a must. For relaxing vibes we’re going down to Newport to hit Balboa Island.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Number one is God. Without him I would never be where I’m at today. My family has helped to support my journey throughout this process and have encouraged me so much. My daughters are my biggest motivation because I know that they are always watching me. It’s so important for me to remain focused and to put my all into everything that I do, and never give up.

Last but never the least, my success would never be possible without the thousands of people that have supported Kyngston Kytchen over the years #beacauseofyou

Website: kyngstonkytchen.com

Instagram: @kyngstonkytchen @kkseafoodandjerkhouse @_ariesj

Facebook: Kyngston Kytchen LA Kyngston Kytchen Seafood and Jerk House

Image Credits
Graphic Design by Leonard “Graffiti” Johnson @thatsgraffiti

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