The Pearls and Ivy Foundation of Queens hosted its inaugural Flavored Food and Wine Festival, a diverse cultural celebration that brought together food, spirits and community at Queens College in Queens, New York.
The event, supported by a dedicated group of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. members and Pearls and Ivy, stood together with a shared mission to raise scholarship funds to empower high school seniors. The Flavored Food and Wine Festival is the latest effort for the nonprofit to continue its critical work throughout the community.
Nicole K. Hills, president of Pearls and Ivy Foundation, set the tone for the festival. “This isn’t just about food. It’s about our community coming together to support our future leaders. It’s about giving back,” she shared via a statement.
And give back, they did, as all proceeds from the event went directly to the foundation’s scholarship fund. With that kind of energy, the festival showed this is a community-powered movement.
Food lovers from all five boroughs descended on the quad for an experience only New York City could offer. With partners like CLEO TV, Queens College and more, the festival was a hit with its lineup of top-notch vendors. From the crowd-favorite cinnamon sugar donuts provided by Sassy Sweets Vegan Treats, which gave the festival a perfect autumn vibe, to the bold flavors of Spread-MMM’s tapenade, there was no shortage of standout samples.
The wine and spirits selection was just as impressive. Uncle Nearest Whiskey carries a deep legacy of African American craftsmanship, led by Fawn Weaver—the founder’s granddaughter—and this family brand did not disappoint. Stoney Wines is a sentimental nod to owner Donna Stoney’s family. She gave each bottle of wine unique themes like “Poetic,” “The Sons We Bear” and “For Our Daughters.” Brooklyn Chop House was also onsite, serving their signature Asian fusion dishes and hitting all the right notes.
Some of the highlights at the Flavored Wine and Food Festival were the cooking demonstrations and chef spotlights like Jazz Smollet and Chef JJ Johnson of Just Eats on CLEO TV. The breakout star of the festival, Chef JJ is known for his expertise in rice-based dishes. He took the attendees on a culinary journey, blending history, culture and flavor.
During his demonstration, Chef JJ highlighted the deep, often overlooked history of rice cultivation in the United States, specifically the role of enslaved Africans who brought their knowledge of rice farming from West Africa. “Carolina Gold rice was one of the first rice varieties harvested by enslaved people in the Carolinas. Their expertise is what made rice cultivation in the U.S. commercially successful.”
Chef JJ emphasized the connection between food and heritage. He demonstrated his signature oxtail and rice dish on stage, detailing the importance of caramelizing meats and how each spice plays a role in locking in flavor. “The secret is in the sear,” he said. “It’s what brings out the richness in the meat and the depth of the dish.”
Caribbean culture was also front and center. A dancehall moment united generations, proudly sharing the joy and strength of Caribbean people—especially Haitians, who have recently been the target of negative media narratives. DJ Exeqtive helped flip the script, showing the truth of who these communities are vibrant, enduring and full of love.
As attendees took in the music after the food tasting, the AKAs proudly represented, performing their signature stroll, which added unity and devotion, helping the event feel like a big family reunion.
The Flavored Food and Wine Festival was a party with purpose. “This event reflects the power of community,” Hills stated. “We’re thrilled to bring together so much talent for a cause that impacts so many.”
As the festival wrapped up, it was clear that the inaugural event set the bar high. From Quiaufa’s Kitchen to Melba’s Restaurant, the vendors delivered an unforgettable experience that left everyone buzzing.
The Pearls and Ivy Foundation made the gathering an event to remember. Until next year.
