A Celebration of Growth, Confidence, and Community: Reflections on the SPICE Graduation

As we reflect on the recent Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship (SPICE) Graduation, there’s a powerful sense of pride and purpose. The evening was more than just a celebration, it was the culmination of months of dedication, hard work, and transformation. SPICE Program Lead Natalie Frederick-Wilson stated that, “there was a special atmosphere at the graduation celebration, it is like we were revealing something very special.”

Throughout the evening, what stood out most was the energy and excitement from the graduates. Their faces lit up with pride as they shared their culinary creations and business ideas with friends, family, supporters, and community members. For many, this was their first time presenting their food products to the public, “It is such a boost of beautiful confidence. Watching guests engage with the graduates, enjoy their food, and offer feedback. These exchanges aren’t just enjoyable; they’re empowering,” Natalie said.

Graduation day isn’t just a ceremony, it’s a milestone, a public facing launch for many of the graduates into the world of entrepreneurship. The connections forged that evening reflect the spirit of the SPICE program: inclusion, support, celebration, and transformation. “The evening really helped the women know they are supported, that people appreciate their food and everyone is there to celebrate them,” Natalie explained.

“Long after the official event ended, the graduates lingered, still buzzing with excitement, talking, laughing, and sharing their experiences with each other,” Natalie noted.

Elvira Prado, owner of Elvira’s Table, commented on her experience in the SPICE program “The SPICE Program gave me a powerful boost. From mentorship, to equipment, to ingredients, the support has made a huge difference. It allowed me to grow without stress. In the past six months, between catering and weekly market sales, I’ve made approximately $30,000 in revenue. This is something I’m proud of and still processing, because it has all happened so fast. Thank you to the SPICE Program for creating such a meaningful space for those of us who dreamt of starting our own business in the food industry. A space where we didn’t just learn about business. We learned about ourselves.”

The SPICE program, at its core, is about more than just entrepreneurship. It’s about creating a space where underrepresented women can thrive. It’s about equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and support networks they need to succeed in the challenging food industry. Graduation is the final chapter of one journey and the start of another.

“Success in the marketplace is knowing that CWB is always in their corner, ready to support them at every stage,” Natalie emphasized. “The food industry is one of the most demanding, but with the foundation built through SPICE, our graduates are well-prepared. Many are not only running successful businesses but also giving back, mentoring new entrepreneurs and expanding the circle of impact within their communities.”

What makes SPICE truly unique is its singular position as the only food business incubator and accelerator of its kind in the Maritimes. With three cohorts and nearly 40 graduates to date, the program has proven to be a vital and successful initiative. Many of our alumni continue to grow their businesses, staying closely connected with the CWB, helping to inspire the next wave of food entrepreneurs.

Our SPICE graduate, Ijeoma Eche-Nwosu, founder of Prestigious Apron Gourmet, shared that, “my journey with the SPICE program has been nothing short of transformative. I applied to join the SPICE Cohort last year but was told that the program had already reached capacity. Naturally, I was disappointed, but just a few days later, I received a call. One spot had unexpectedly opened. I believe it was not just by happenstance but was divinely orchestrated. I saw it as nothing short of divine favor and a second chance at an opportunity I truly believed in.