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

Hi Jeriyah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Even when I was a little girl, I had dreams of being my own boss. I’ve never wanted to work for anyone and the pandemic really gave me a chance to find myself and what I wanted. I wanted to help people change, and potentially save their lives. My mom started her keto journey earlier this year and since I cook for my house, I had to adapt. I realized it was harder than I thought it would be making the switch. You have to get the macros just right and I don’t think I’ve ever paid such close attention to that than I have the past 9 months. I wanted to make the transition smoother for people so that taking that first step wouldn’t be so daunting.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Starting your own business is a bold choice and it takes a lot of courage. Luckily, I had people supporting me at every turn. Though I’m still in the infant stages of building my business and brand, I believe it will be something amazing and positive for my community and the world. These last 7 months have taught me that if you don’t believe in yourself, you should have a team of people who do. It would be impossible to do this alone. Having people who see your vision and want it to be reality is imperative because they have that drive, even when you don’t.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The perfect trip to me would be a hike. Finding a nice trail with scenic views and just enjoying each other’s company while reconnecting with nature. I absolutely love chicken and waffles so iHop would be an ideal meal stop.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My father played a huge role in me becoming who I am today and the path I’ve decided to take. He passed last December and I wanted a way to preserve his name and legacy while creating my own. My mom, Marketta Williams, and my grandmother, Mary Irons have been my support system my entire life. Having them on this journey with me has made it not only easier, but enjoyable and fun. Terri and Renaldo Wade, CEO and Co-Founders of Terri’s Sweet Cakes and Iconic Glory Clothing have helped me the most in terms of making my vision come to life. They are a display of the drive and ambition it takes to succeed. Chef Melissa Irons and Chef Robyn Almodovar inspire me to keep working towards my dream. They are exemplary role models as well.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/chefriyah/

Facebook: www,facebook.com/chefriyah

Other: @chefriyah on Tiktok. Be on the look out for my first reel and new vids on tiktok! Keto Cookbook COMING SOON!!!

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.