Peterkin-Belmont’s involvement with Shef — which is described as “Etsy for amazing homemade food made by aunties, abuelos, and restaurant dreamers in your community” — was a natural evolution of her existing love of nourishing people through food.
“I’m originally from the beautiful island of Trinidad and Tobago,” she explained. “Where people are extremely passionate about food. Food — and sharing food with others — is a huge part of our culture. I also believe food should heal and not hurt, which is why I decided to go vegan.”
She grew up cooking alongside her mom and always showed interest in being in the kitchen, and reflects that culture and homecooked comfort combined with vegan alternatives in her signature dishes like Vegan Pelau (her favorite to create), jerk mushrooms, and Vegan Rasta Pasta (which she recommends to anyone trying her food for the first time).