Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jeffrey Henry. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jeffrey, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My optimism stems from my creativity and unwavering drive to offer something fresh, meaningful, and inspiring—especially to those who may struggle to find that spark within themselves. Whether it’s through my restaurant, where food and art come together to create a unique experience, or through Cultural Canvas, where people from all walks of life can express themselves artistically, I strive to build spaces that uplift, connect, and motivate. I believe that inspiration is contagious, and by putting my heart into everything I create, I hope to ignite that same passion in others.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
What excites me most about what I do is the ability to blend creativity, culture, and community in a way that inspires and uplifts people. My restaurant isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a space where food and art come together to create an experience. Every dish we serve carries a story, and every piece of art displayed in our space is a reflection of the talent and passion within our community.
Through Cultural Canvas, my nonprofit, I take that passion a step further by providing opportunities for people—especially kids, veterans, and the elderly—to explore their artistic side, whether through hands-on workshops, collaborative projects, or public art events. I want to bring creativity to those who may not have access to it, giving them a platform to express themselves and connect with others.
Right now, we’re gearing up for some exciting new initiatives! We’re working on expanding our community art programs and hosting more interactive art events that allow people to get involved in the creative process. At the restaurant, we’re also looking into seasonal menu specials that incorporate artistic presentation, making dining an even more immersive experience.
At the heart of everything I do is the belief that creativity is a force for connection and change. Whether it’s through food, art, or community-driven projects, I want to create spaces that spark inspiration and bring people together.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three key qualities have had the biggest impact on my journey: creativity, perseverance, and adaptability. Each of these has shaped the way I approach challenges, build my business, and foster community through both my restaurant and Cultural Canvas.
Whether it’s in food, art, or business, creativity is what makes an experience stand out. It’s about thinking beyond the obvious, finding new ways to engage people, and bringing fresh energy to whatever you do. For those just starting out, I’d say: don’t be afraid to experiment. Explore different ideas, draw inspiration from unexpected places, and trust your unique perspective—because that’s what will set you apart.
Running a business, building a nonprofit, and pursuing any passion comes with setbacks. There were times when things didn’t go as planned, but pushing through those moments made all the difference. My advice? Expect challenges, but don’t let them define your path. Stay focused on your vision, learn from every obstacle, and keep moving forward. Persistence turns ideas into reality.
The world changes, industries shift, and unexpected hurdles come up. The ability to pivot, learn new skills, and adjust when necessary is crucial. When I first started, I had a vision, but I’ve had to evolve along the way—whether it was adapting my restaurant’s offerings, expanding Cultural Canvas in new directions, or learning new skills like coding to enhance my projects. For anyone early in their journey, I’d say: stay open to growth. Learn as much as you can, stay curious, and embrace change rather than fear it.
At the end of the day, success isn’t about having all the answers from the start—it’s about being willing to learn, staying true to your passion, and creating something that inspires both you and those around you
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Without a doubt, my wife has been the most instrumental person in helping me overcome challenges and grow into the person I am today. She’s been my biggest supporter, my sounding board, and my reality check when I needed it most. Through every tough decision, setback, and moment of doubt, she’s been there, pushing me to keep going and reminding me why I started in the first place.
Her belief in me has given me the confidence to take risks, pursue my creative vision, and build something meaningful. She’s not just supportive—she challenges me to be better, to think bigger, and to refine my ideas in ways I wouldn’t have on my own.
Beyond that, she’s been an incredible partner in navigating both business and life. Whether it’s offering a fresh perspective, helping me problem-solve, or simply reminding me to take a break when I need it, her presence has been invaluable. Success isn’t just about what you know or what you build—it’s about the people who stand by you, and I’m grateful every day to have her in my corner
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thecubancafe.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069099046322
Image Credits
Photos by Sarah Coupland and Jeffrey Henry
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
