Black Girls Cook

Empowering Girls, One Meal at a Time

Black Girls Cook (BGC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and inspiring inner-city adolescent Black girls through programs in culinary arts, urban farming, STEM, entrepreneurship, and food security—all rooted in the rich cultural traditions of the African Diaspora. Since 2014, BGC has provided culturally affirming, hands-on learning experiences that build confidence, leadership, and life skills while connecting girls to their heritage.

In Miami, BGC has been serving girls for 3 years, bringing our holistic approach to communities that face food insecurity, limited enrichment opportunities, and underrepresentation of Black girls in STEM and culinary fields.

Core Programs

BGC’s programs provide safe, educational, and culturally affirming spaces for girls to learn, create, and lead:

Culinary Arts Program: Girls learn cooking techniques, nutrition, and the history behind dishes of the African Diaspora—from Gullah Geechee gumbo to Caribbean plantains. Classes foster kitchen skills, teamwork, creativity, and confidence.

Edible Gardening Program: Participants grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs in urban spaces, learning about sustainability, nutrition, and food systems while cultivating pride, patience, and a sense of responsibility.

Kitchen Sink Beauty (STEM Program): Girls explore science through creating plant-based soaps, scrubs, and hair care products. They learn chemistry, measurement, and entrepreneurship, gaining hands-on STEM experience and creative problem-solving skills.

Storybook Cooks: Designed for girls in grades K–2, Storybook Cooks blends literacy and culinary exploration. Girls bring storybooks to life through themed recipes, strengthening reading skills, vocabulary, and confidence while connecting with cultural heritage.

Impact in Miami

Since launching in Miami back in 2022, BGC has served over 110 girls, helping them build skills, confidence, and leadership while fostering cultural pride. Key highlights include:

• Access & Equity: Nearly half of participants receive full or partial fee waivers, ensuring financial barriers do not prevent participation.

• Cultural Connection: Girls learn the stories, techniques, and traditions behind African Diaspora foods, deepening their sense of identity and community.

• Leadership Development: Teen alumni return as mentors and teaching assistants, guiding while gaining professional and leadership experience.

• Community Engagement: Partnerships with chefs, schools, and local organizations have expanded programming, including intergenerational cooking events and Juneteenth celebrations.

BGC programs not only teach culinary and STEM skills—they also foster resilience, creativity, and a sense of belonging in a supportive environment.

2026 Goals in Miami

Looking ahead, BGC aims to deepen its impact and expand its reach in Miami:

1. Serve More Girls: Expand programming to reach 50% more participants annually.

2. Secure a Permanent Space: Establish a dedicated kitchen and garden hub to anchor programs long-term.

3. Strengthen Partnerships: Collaborate with schools, youth organizations, and community gardens to integrate food literacy and cultural education.

4. Develop Alumni Leadership: Provide pathways for teen mentors and program alumni to take on leadership roles.

5. Expand Storybook Cooks and Intergenerational Programs: Increase early literacy, culinary, and family engagement opportunities across neighborhoods.

These goals are designed to ensure that every girl has the tools, confidence, and support to thrive, while also strengthening community connections and fostering cultural pride.

Why Support Black Girls Cook

For someone who has never heard of BGC, your support means giving a girl the chance to discover her potential, voice, and place at the table. Through our programs, girls develop practical skills in cooking, gardening, STEM, and entrepreneurship, while also gaining confidence, leadership, and cultural affirmation that will last a lifetime.

Donations allow BGC to:

• Provide fee waivers to ensure that financial barriers do not limit participation.

• Purchase ingredients, garden supplies, and classroom materials.

• Pay teaching staff and program assistants who deliver hands-on instruction.

• Host community events and family celebrations that strengthen connections.

By supporting BGC, donors are investing in future leaders, innovators, and changemakers—girls who are empowered to take ownership of their learning, culture, and community. Every contribution ensures that Black girls in Miami have the tools, space, and guidance to thrive and inspire others.