“Find what you love and let it kill you” is the famous quote wrapped around a global knife tattooed on Ikimi’s back. Destined to be a lawyer to help her Brooklyn community, Ikimi ended up in culinary school by accident. Securing her first job at the World Trade Center Marriott as a silver polisher was a humbling and knowledgable experience. Ikimi attended Johnson & Wales University, and after graduation utilized her time traveling the world studying culture through food. Upon her return to the states, she was the youngest & first woman to complete the Marriott & Ritz Carlton management training program. Her career led her to lead culinary and management teams at sports organizations, restaurant groups, and prestigious educational institutions. After leading the culinary team on Capitol Hill, through the largest sustainable food initiative, Ikimi rediscovered her passion to mentor the next generation. In August 2017, in conjunction with Lifeworks Restaurant Group, she designed and opened LEO MKT, a food hall in Washington, DC, focusing on cuisines around the world. Known for her ability to create managers, lead large teams, encourage the growth of women, and minorities in the business, she hasn’t stopped yet. Chef, restaurateur, writer, nonprofit executive, and inspiration. “When there is no room for me at the table, I usually stand on the table.”

Carlton McCoy Jr. earned the title of Master Sommelier in 2013 at just 28 years old. He was one of the youngest people and the second African American to earn this prestigious title. Carlton worked in revered institutions such as Thomas Keller’s Per Se, Marcus Samuelsson’s Aquavit, Tom Colicchio’s Craft Steak in New York and most recently as Wine Director at The Little Nell in Aspen before being named President and CEO of Heitz Cellar in December 2018. To Carlton, Heitz Cellar represents a very particular style of Napa wines: ones that speak to an earlier era in California winemaking. His vision will highlight the winery’s consistent focus on remaining true to its elegant, pure style. “There has to be reverence when it comes to these older brands that create the greatest wines in the country,” he states. “It is fortunate that the Heitz family believed in that style and didn’t change it over the years. It makes the wines the unique experience that they are.” Recently, Carlton became the managing partner of Lawrence Estates.

Tahiirah Habibi is an esteemed Sommelier, and founder of Hue Society. Born and Raised in North Philadelphia, Tahiirah has always had a passion for uplifting the community. Her journey through wine began at Penn State University, attending events. Upon graduating, she worked at a restaurant as a hostess during the day, and took wine classes at night. In 2012, Tahiirah opened the prestigious St.Regis, Bal Harbour. Her career ventured through many leadership roles to include Micheal’s Genuine. Frustrated with the lack of diversity in the industry, she uses her skills to bridge the intersection of wine and culture. In 2017, she launched Hue Society as a safe space for the community to learn, commune and find resources in one place. She had created a cultural space for the Black community to share their developments and experiences in wine. Tahiirah has been featured in Ocean Drive as one of the top 5 female sommeliers, VinePair, Wine Enthusiast, Upscale Magazine, and Imbibe Magazine to name a few. Her work is rooted in empowering the community for both consumers and business owners.