Kimberly Camara

Entrepreneurship tests your grit, your drive, and commitment to your vision by putting you through some of the most grueling challenges and uncomfortable situations. But it is only these moments that allow for incredible growth and lessons.

Hospitality seems to be in our blood, I have seen it in the graciousness towards our guests to provide utmost comfort to make them feel good and special and the acts of service that we display to meet this sentiment. The consciousness—knowing the lasting impact of a feeling, good or bad, during any experience. We had so many people come in and out of our home growing up, mostly for huge parties we were always throwing, but I was able to witness first hand how to create an unforgettable feeling, whether it’s through delicious food (of course my personal favorite), service, or interpersonal connection. Subconsciously I think I always knew I would be in the business of creating unforgettable experiences for others, but I only connected the dots when I finally asked myself why I wanted to be a chef.

For example, I might ask, “Why do we make sure all the pastries are facing the exact same way on the tray and in the box? So when the customer opens it, they feel the care and intention to make sure that they are all placed perfectly.” Or, “Why do we set our quality standards so high? Because we have customers who are trusting us enough to try our pastries often to enjoy them at monumental events in their lives.”

If accepted with humility and with a mindset of problem solving and NOT self-pity or doubt, you will find mistakes are actually opportunities for becoming better, and knowing better.

your network is your biggest asset. Kora may have been started by Kevin and me, but it was not built by us alone. The only reason we have gotten this far is because of the pool of knowledge that surrounds us in people. The brother who is a photographer. The cousin who works in social media. The past chefs who offer their resources and advice.

So make connections, keep connections, and make sure you surround yourself with the right support system.

For various reasons, but the main one being that skills can always be taught. Generally we can train anyone to do anything so long as they’re willing. But you cannot make someone eager to learn. You can’t force someone to care, or be curious. You can’t force someone to leave their comfort zone for their own growth. But when you find people who understand and know reasons that align with your visions, those people are gemstones, who may not have all the necessary skills YET, but have all the necessary attitudes to get there.

I also find ways to continue to educate myself on business, via YouTube videos, but mostly diving into my network to pick apart the minds of those who know more about business than anyone else.