About The Global Food and Drink Initiative

“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin or culture is like a tree without roots.” – Marcus Garvey

The Global Food and Drink Initiative (GFDI) is a James Beard award-winning nonprofit founded in 2020, that is championing safe spaces to preserve stories that celebrate people of African descent in food, drink and travel globally.

The organization is committed to preserving stories of Black food history and culture that have historically been systematically erased, excluded, minimized and capitalistically pirated, thereby shaping false narratives, misplaced attributions and harmful stereotypes.

GFDI aims to be a central resource hub for those seeking to know, understand and celebrate the rich foodways of the African diaspora that have transformed how we look at ourselves, our communities and the world through food.

Our Founder and Executive Director

V. Sheree Williams is the award-winning founder and executive director of GFDI who pioneered Black food media in 2009 with the introduction of Cuisine Noir. Her work to amplify and champion stories about people of African descent in food, drink and travel has been influential in changing narratives and centering Black food stories across media platforms, including social media.

Her vision and influence has amassed global readership as well opened doors to serve in various roles that allow her to use her voice and expertise to shape the future of food and food journalism. 

In her role, she leads a global team who is passionate about preserving Black food history and culture and works to opens doors for authentic collaborations that foster inclusion of diverse voices and experiences. 

GFDI executive director V Sheree Williams