At RISE Culinary Institute, we’re more than a culinary training program—we’re a movement rooted in compassion, culture, and community. Our team is made up of purpose-driven leaders, educators, and advocates who are deeply committed to empowering refugee and immigrant women through food, connection, and opportunity.
Founder & Director
Lavanya came to the U.S. on a dependent visa and began her journey as an unpaid intern for two years before launching a small farmers market booth selling her own line of spice blends. What began as a humble venture grew into multiple award-winning restaurants all rooted in a mission of empowerment through food. Today, she leads RISE Culinary Institute with that same purpose: helping refugee and immigrant women gain confidence, skills, and independence through culinary training and community.
Director, Survivor and Victim Services Division
An immigrant of Indian origin from South Africa, Asha brings decades of nonprofit management and social-impact leadership to RISE. She currently serves as the Director of the Survivor and Victim Services Division at the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office, where she works to create equitable systems and opportunities for underserved communities. Her work with RISE reflects her lifelong commitment to justice, dignity, and the empowerment of women.
Filmmaker, RYSE Media Ventures
Born in Vietnam and raised in the U.S. after arriving as a refugee at age three, Naja uses her lived experience to tell stories of resilience and belonging. Through RYSE Media Ventures, she captures the strength, hope, and cultural richness of women rebuilding their lives through food and community.
Guided by a diverse group of visionary leaders, our Advisory Board lends wisdom, experience, and heart to help RISE expand its impact empowering women, strengthening communities, and transforming lives through the power of food.
A pioneering entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist, Dr. Patel is often regarded as the father of Utah’s biotech industry. He brings decades of leadership and a deep commitment to education, innovation, and community empowerment.
The first female trader to make partner at Goldman Sachs, Jacki is a philanthropist and gender equity advocate dedicated to advancing women’s leadership and economic opportunity worldwide.
Founder of Culinary Crafts and a visionary in Utah’s hospitality industry, Mary is a mentor, author, and community leader who has long championed purpose-driven entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment.
A seasoned communications strategist and connector, Sue combines her global business insight with a passion for storytelling and social impact, helping elevate RISE’s mission and visibility.
Our Board of Directors provides governance, vision, and strategic leadership. They are champions of equity, empowerment, and sustainable growth.
Executive Video Producer
Loren is an Executive Video Producer. with a background in documentary production at 21st Century Fox, Lucasfilm, and Zoetrope. She’s passionate about telling dynamic, visually engaging stories and uses her craft to create films that inspire and move audiences.
Author & Early Childhood Educator
Rachelle is an author, educator, and advocate dedicated to helping children and families transform challenges into growth and healing. With a lifelong commitment to creativity, emotional well-being, and empowerment, she creates tools and stories that remind others of their intrinsic value and capacity for resilience.
Founder, Kings Peak Coffee Roasters
Garland’s love for Utah’s mountain landscapes and community spirit inspired him to launch Kings Peak Coffee Roasters. A passionate entrepreneur and mentor, he ensures his team embodies authenticity and connection in every cup served.
Associate Dean, Salt Lake Community College Culinary Arts Institute
Jeffrey brings decades of culinary and academic leadership to RISE through his role at SLCC. A chef and educator at heart, he is passionate about mentorship, workforce development, and creating opportunities for aspiring culinarians to thrive in Utah’s growing food industry.
Founder, EDYNKEI & Elevate Women’s Group
Pualei is a community leader and advocate dedicated to women’s empowerment and collective growth. Through her work with EDYNKEI and the Elevate Women’s Group, she creates spaces for connection, healing, and leadership—helping women rise together through shared stories and purpose.
Whether you’re a culinary professional, mentor, volunteer, or visionary,
we welcome collaborators who believe in rising together.
Reach out to us at info@riseculinaryinstitute.org
Whether you’re a culinary professional, mentor, volunteer, or visionary, we welcome collaborators who believe in rising together.
Reach out to us at info@riseculinaryinstitute.org
