Trinidadian-born chef Josette Thomas is on the verge of expanding her roti business, RotiMama, beyond her community in Atlanta, Georgia, thanks to the Favourite Chef competition presented by celebrity chef Carla Hall.
To move forward in the competition, Thomas needs popular votes, with the next round ending on July 11 at midnight. The prize for winning includes US$25,000, an appearance on the cover of Taste of Home magazine, a US$90,000 photoshoot, and the opportunity to cook with Hall.
Thomas acknowledges that her success in the competition is due to the support of her community, who raised her, and her loyal supporters who want to see her business flourish. Those interested in voting for Thomas can do so at https://favchef.com/2024/josette-thomas.
Her vision for RotiMama goes beyond just serving roti; Thomas aims to create a fine dining experience with her dishes. She emphasizes the importance of art in plating food, a trend that has shifted towards more elaborate yet visually appealing displays.
Thomas’ passion for food stems from her childhood in Santa Flora, where she learned the joys of togetherness around the dining table. Raised in an entrepreneurial family, she draws inspiration from her grandmother’s successful mango preservation business, which instilled in her a strong work ethic and a love for the culinary world.
With a background in tourism management and a knack for business, Thomas has turned RotiMama into a thriving venture, catering to events and shipping food all over the US. Her unique twist on traditional roti dishes has garnered praise from customers who appreciate her dedication to quality and flavor.
For Thomas, RotiMama is not just a business but a true embodiment of community, culture, and the nurturing spirit of the mother figures who inspired her along the way. As she continues to make her mark in the culinary world, Thomas remains grateful for the support that has brought her this far.
