We had the good fortune of connecting with Chef Gueli and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chef, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I made the decision to be a stay-at-home mother after I had my son. After having spent almost 8 years with him including homeschooling, it was very difficult having to “leave” my son to start pursuing my career and my dream of being an entrepreneur.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I was born in Ethiopia and moved to the U.S. when I was ten years old. Many fond memories from my childhood in Ethiopia remain with me, still vivid and forever engraved in my soul.  As a kid, I would sneak into the kitchen to watch as meals were being prepared. Traditional Ethiopian kitchens are detached from the main dwelling of the house. Clay pots sputtering stews atop open wood and charcoal-burning fires were no place for a child, but I admired the process and would always find my way in. I would get kicked out when I inched too close to the humming pots to take in the aromas, or tried to stir the stews over the open fire. After moving to Virginia, I was introduced to other international cuisines as well as southern and American comfort food dishes. After changing my lifestyle and becoming vegan, I was eventually able to recreate my favorite meals, and “veganize” them!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the beach, I love wineries with vegan-friendly options. Authentic Italian, Ethiopian and Mexican restaurants are my go-to.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family, more specifically my mother in law, Theresa has been the backbone to my success and starting this food truck venture.

Website: www.veganchefgueli.com
Instagram: @veganchefgueli
Twitter: @veganchefgueli
Youtube: Veganchefgueli

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.