We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kashe Masters a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kashe, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Being a woman in the kitchen is one thing. Being a beautiful woman in the kitchen is another. However, being a beautiful strong black woman in the kitchen is a totally different realm in itself.
I do believe that men and women are NOT equal, and because of that us women usually have to prove ourselves more. As a woman working in a predominantly male industry, we generally have to work harder. I’ve found it imperative to be authentic, knowledgeable yet teachable, to have effective communication, good listening skills, and being able to withstand criticism, remaining humble and confident…….just having tough skin.
Over the past 12 years I’ve learned that ego and pride get you absolutely nowhere in the long run. Working in a busy, hectic, loud environment requires all 5 senses, and remembering to keep your eyes on your work and still being mindful of your peers and colleagues. I’ve gracefully made a great deal of progress when it came to staying to myself, doing my work and communicating when need be.
Because of my natural charm, appeal, and great work ethic I’ve honestly used that to my advantage to win over the hearts of my peers and colleagues, which in return allowed me to be respected in and out of the workplace. I worked my way through the trenches, and I remain optimistic about what the future holds as I build a culinary empire.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m so excited to be working on my newest business venture, Masterful Events. With my past experiences + new industry extractions, I’m combining elite lifestyle, food, hospitality, and health.
Masterful Events is a local catering, private chef service, and event rentals company providing services for personal needs and corporate businesses in Houston, TX. This year, we’ve been blessed to also provide service to the DFW area, Austin, and ATL.
What makes this venture special is our elegant touch combined with overwhelming hospitality, and attention to detail. Another focus we have is our specialty in health awareness. There is a great percentage of folks with dietary restrictions, and/or lifestyle preferences, and being able to accommodate each client’s needs is extremely important.
You can keep up with us on social media @TheMasterfulEvents and our website www.TheMasterfulEvents.com
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on the three qualities I’ve attained over the years is to be teachable, resilient, and to maintain integrity.
Teachable – no matter how much knowledge and/or wisdom one has, always remain teachable. When you stop learning you stop growing,…and we all know what happens to things that don’t grow – Death.
Resilient – Continuously press toward your goals. Life happens, chaos happens, life is an up and down rollercoaster, and being able to bounce back from anything good or bad is what helps people to progressively move forward.
Integrity – People lie, cheat, and steal every day. Every single thing we do impacts our character. It’s imperative to do the right thing even when no one is looking. Me personally, I’ve witnessed all kinds of terrible things in my career field and I made it my duty to do what’s right even when others don’t agree nor understand.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
When I’m overwhelmed, I pause, take a moment to reflect on the issue at hand and see if I’ve experienced anything similar in the past.
Prayer is my go-to. It’s the only thing I honestly know how to do when things are completely out of my control.
I give thanks for all hardships I’ve endured over the years, and I give thanks to God for the situation at hand. It’s in those overwhelming and difficult moments God is able to show up and show out.
I’m a true witness of seeing his hand at work in my life in so many ways and in countless encounters.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TheMasterfulEvents.com
- Instagram: @TheMasterfulEvents
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/TheMasterfulEvents
Image Credits
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