Vision Chef. I am Donna Marie. I was born and raised in Jamaica (the Caribbean–not the neighborhood in Queens, New York) and have lived in the United States for over 30 years. I have a career I love, nurtured friendships and partnerships with extraordinary men and women, and participated in diverse mind-expanding activities. My passions are aroused by many things (nature, sports, movies, live performances and art to name a few). Most of all, I view life–and being human–as an exciting adventure, an exploration. This exploration has led me to workshops, seminars, books, videos, retreats, courses, and experiences around the globe–all part of the effort to express the real me and live my best life. Through this process of self-discovery I began to realize the key to living life to the fullest is as simple as staying aware, awake and attuned to the magic and miracle of each moment. As this is an inside job, I needed to find ways to nurture this discovery and be inspired each day so I could bring this spirit and attitude to my daily life. This desire led to the creation of the food for the soul™ experience. At the heart of this experience is Inspiration!
Communications Chef. I’m Caryn Starr-Gates, a promotional copywriter who helps market food for the soul’s message through Newsbite, the website, and special marketing programs. I started writing ad copy before word processors were invented (ouch!) so I’ve seen a lot of changes in the marketing landscape over the years. I began my career in Atlanta, where I worked on many different accounts and projects, including the launch of CNN, the world’s first 24-hour news network. I have enjoyed several interim careers—as a professional cook, restaurant manager and regional supervisor, organizer, and gift basket designer/retailer—before returning to my writing roots a few years ago with StarrGates Business Communications. I work with small businesses and non-profits who seek to gain more visibility in all media (print, broadcast, digital) through advertising, marketing and public relations efforts. When I’m not working I feed my passion for volunteering and giving back to others and am proud to hold leadership roles in several organizations. I believe in following your professional bliss and trying new things because we only get to do this life once! I dream of having enough free time to ride horses more often, read as much as I can, and go to the movies whenever I want.
Social Marketing Chef. I am Tanya Schiavone and I was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. I have spent most of my career focusing on helping failing businesses become profitable again. Now, I use these skills to help small businesses promote themselves through social media and marketing. I maintain Food For The Souls’ Twitter stream and evaluate as well as edit blog entries for our Daily Specials. I find my inspiration through art, cooking, writing and walking my dog, Pancake.
Personal Chef. I am Noreen Sumpter and I came to the New York from London in 1985 with $60.00 in my pocket. I worked a variety of jobs as a secretary while going back to school; I graduated in three years taking extra credits, with a major in psychology. I ran my own real estate business for 10+ years and loved it, but coaching called me. I contribute to Food For The Soul’s Nourishing Nibbles which is part of the site’s Daily Specials feature. One of my proudest moments occurred in 2006. I created a mission to Haiti that included a few of us collecting food, clothes, medicine and condoms to bring there and organizing a trailer to transport these supplies to areas of greatest need. It took us eight days from the moment I decided that something needed to be done to having the trailer ready for shipment. It was one of the most difficult projects I’ve ever been involved in but I was determined to make it happen despite the obstacles—I was not taking no for an answer. I am fun and believe that life without fun, no matter what, is not worth living.
Views and Reviews