Episode: IV
Tune in to become informed, and inspired by a true agent of change.
In this segment, Chef Cynthia speaks to Diane Wallace Booker about the life-changing work being performed at U.S. Dream Academy.
Listen as our guest, explains the challenges that children of incarcerated parents face, the need for mentorship, and the fight for criminal justice reform. Chef Cynthia & Diane dialogue while preparing a delicious dish, vegan mashed sweet potatoes.
This is a segment that should not be missed
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HOST
CHEF CYNTHIA CHEA PEAN
BIOGRAPHY
A first-generation American of African and Caribbean descent, Chef Cynthia Chea Pean focuses on nutrient-dense, disease-fighting cuisine featuring ingredients, techniques, and flavors of the African diaspora. As an avid traveler throughout Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States, she takes every opportunity to expose herself to native foods and local traditions, adapting her recipes to honor the history and communities behind them.
Her innovative and unique globally inspired cuisine is beloved by A-list Hollywood celebrities, Tastemakers, and political icons.
FEATURING
SPECIAL GUEST
C. DIANE WALLACE BOOKER, ESQ
Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Vice President
For U.S. DREAM ACADEMY
A National Non-Profit That Mentors Children Of Incarcerated Parents
BIOGRAPHY
Diane serves as the Chief Strategy Officer to drive innovative strategies and develop transformative partnerships that support the long-term growth of the U.S. Dream Academy. She holds the distinction of being the Founding Executive Director and led the national expansion of Dream Academy while developing a deep expertise in non-profit management.
An expert in positive youth development and mentoring with a focus on children of incarcerated parents and an attorney, Diane is passionate about creating equitable opportunities for young people to achieve their dreams. Diane has the audacious belief that every child should have the opportunity to be raised in a community free from discrimination, violence, and trauma.
Diane is nationally recognized for her work in youth development, social justice, and her extensive experience in non-profit management. Diane speaks around the country on the impact of parental incarceration, poverty, and trauma on children’s development, academic achievement, and future outcomes along with solutions for how we can remove barriers to economic mobility through education, social justice, well-being, and connected communities.
Diane has received a number of community service awards and served on several boards. Currently, she serves on the board of directors for Baltimore City Head Start. In 2013, she was selected as one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women by The Daily Record for her professional accomplishments, community involvement, and mentoring. In October 2018, Diane received the Icons and Innovators for Social Justice Award at the BE SOCIAL for Justice Gala presented by BronxConnect, Africa Rising, and the Christian Cultural Center. In 2018 she was asked to be one of five non-profit leaders represented on stage at Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” Tour in Washington, D.C., and was recently awarded a Community Service Award from Stennis Enterprises for her work in San Bernardino, CA.
RECIPE
VEGAN SWEET MASHED POTATOES
2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp ras el hangout or Asian Five Spice (target)
1/4 cup plant-milk (prefer oat milk or coconut milk)
2 tablespoons plant-based butter (miyoko’s or earth balance)
1 tsp. salt
1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
TOOLS
Pot to boil potatoes
vegetable peeler
potato masher
