In March, Quell hosted its first Unblock Unconference, a two-day event that brought together people from the food, drink, and hospitality industry to inspire change to create more a diverse, inclusive, and equitable industry. The Unconference was held at Evergreen Brickworks, where industry leaders led sessions discussing diversity and inclusion and how it applies to food, culture, leadership, and branding. Attendees included business leaders, educators, changemakers, visionaries, and more connected to the food, beverage, and hospitality industry. People from underrepresented groups had the opportunity to listen and learn from one another. With the stories and expertise of the industry leaders, attendees had the chance to identify business gaps and left the event with tangible steps to make a difference.
Keynote speakers of the event included award-winning director and photographer and past VIBE cover star Justin Wu, Vice President of Organizational Culture and Inclusion for the Toronto Raptors John Wiggins, 2-Time Master Chef Canada Alumni and Entrepreneur Marissa Leon-John, General Manager of DoorDash Shilpa Arora, and Erika Casupanan, winner of Survivor season 41 and media personality.
Other speakers included past VIBE cover stars Chef Wallace Wong, Chef and Entrepreneur Devan Rajkumar, and Trevor Lui, co-founder of Quell. Lui and his sister Stephanie Lui-Valentim founded Quell, an agency that advocates for those who are underrepresented in the food, beverage, health, and lifestyle community. Their goal is to create more opportunities for them while promoting inclusive practices in which diversity is prioritized and celebrated.
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Quell’s Unblock Unconference was a success, as many left the event with more knowledge and a sense of community. “I attended this (un)conference SOLO! AND walked away feeling…..seen, heard, and welcomed among a COMMUNITY bonded through clear purpose,” said Maliesa Cadogan, culture leader at YUM Brands.
It was a rewarding event where attendees had the chance to network with others that shared their passions. “It’s amazing when you find the people who spark with the same purpose and aren’t afraid to shout it out loud for the people in the back,” stated Shilpa Arora, general manager of DoorDash Canada.
Check out the speakers:
