Our Influential Business Leader Spotlight is of chef, community activist, author, and business owner, Shaquin Thomas. Shaquin is the beloved CEO of Soul To Table Catering. As of late she has been cooking up some delicious food, working on her next cookbook, writing food articles, serving her community, and simply living her life! We believe our readers would be attracted to Shaquin’s story in hopes to become inspired if you have lost your spark. Shaquin tells us that it’s never too late to keep going.
When you think of being an influential leader, what comes to mind?
Shaquin: First and foremost, I believe an influential leader sets a good example and because of this, people will naturally gravitate and follow you. Leaders never see problems; but opportunities instead. They are constantly encouraging collaboration, engagement, and effectively communicating with their peers, followers, etc.
In what ways have you, your companies, and resources made an influence on your community, and beyond?
Shaquin: Because I have given back and served my community countless times, when a need rises locally, people generally reach out to me for assistance in sharing it across my platform to ensure it gets resolved. It warms my heart to have access to resources and support from my community to help those in need.
In what other ways do you aspire to utilize your platform to make an influence in the world?
Shaquin: I would love to travel to different cities and host various events that aid those in need such as back-to-school drives, clothing drives, and even cold water and portable personal fans during hot summer months. I would love to plan food drives in which I would personally set up and serve the less fortunate and provide encouraging words and resources as well. I would love to build my network across the world to have contacts everywhere to make this happen.
What is your mission for the Summer of 2023?
Shaquin: For the Summer of 2023, my mission is to travel to various cities, network, meet people, and connect with people that share similar missions and goals in hopes of collaborating.
We are halfway through 2023. What has the first part of the year been like for you and what can we expect from the second half?
Shaquin: The first part of the year was extremely busy which is always a great thing. In the second half of the year I am interested in focusing on my personal brand of kitchen products such as culinary utensils, skillets, teapots, and more.
How would you define your success as a business owner?
Shaquin: Success for me is ensuring my client is always satisfied. Once my client’s happiness is confirmed, I can rest. There is always room for growth and success for me isn’t necessarily achieving a specific goal. I’m successful if I make a dish for the first time and it comes out perfect. Success for an entrepreneur is definitely different across the board!
Any final thoughts that you would like to leave our readers with?
Shaquin: I absolutely love inspirational quotes so I will drop one of my favorites. “If you dream it, you can achieve it!”
How can we keep up to date with you in the digital world?
Shaquin: I would love for everyone to follow me on my social media handles!
Instagram: @soultotablecatering
Facebook: Soul To Table Catering
Be sure to check out some of Shaquin’s past and recent media features via Bronze Magazine, Hustle and Soul Magazine, Steller Magazine, and Soigne’ + Swank Magazine.
About The Author
