Today we’d like to introduce you to Becky Gripp.
Hi Becky, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Eleven years ago a priest was seeking employment opportunities for the women in his parish who had several barriers to employment. I agreed to work with them and landed on the art of tamale making. We decided to focus on one product and do it well. We make handmade authentic tamales tamales year round, sharing the tradition and bridging a cultural divide.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Initially, it was a challenge to decide on a pork tamale recipe from the several debated and then to actually purchase the necessary ingredients to make, for example, 100 tamales.
It was a struggle to find a permanent home for our production kitchen as well as maintain regular distribution in order to keep the women working. In the early years, we cooked late in the day since we shared kitchen space and childcare was an issue for some.
It has not been a smooth road, however, we have met each challenge with the support of family, community network and devoted customers,
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I worked as a corporate trainer and then educator in the non profit sector, developing and delivering financial education programs for a book of corporate clients and then, community organizations.
I believe that I am best known for my ability to collaborate and connect others with resources. In addition, I am a visionary … I can see where I am going and reach out to others to help me get there along the way.
My favorite phrase is… I’ve got an idea.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is “snipe hunting” with my cousins at my Aunt Margaret’s house in Mexico, Missouri.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thetamalekitchen.org
- Facebook: The Tamale Kitchen
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/becky-gripp-898a1610 and the-tamale-kitchen
