From Incubator to Impact: Monique Armand Named Celebrity Chef Honoree for the 23rd Annual Gentleman’s Cooking Classic

The Milam Street Kitchen Incubator & Community Kitchen (MS KICK) is proud to celebrate a major milestone as Executive Director and Culinary entrepreneur, Monique “Chef Mosa” Armand, has been selected as a Celebrity Chef Honoree for the 23rd Annual Gentleman’s Cooking Classic (GCC) hosted by Southern University at Shreveport Foundation.

This recognition is more than a personal achievement, it reflects the innovation, leadership, and community impact cultivated through MS KICK and Southern University at Shreveport.

A Chef Rooted in Purpose

Monique’s journey began with a passion for creating meaningful food experiences and has evolved into a career that blends culinary excellence with community impact. As Executive Director of MS KICK, she leads an ecosystem that empowers food entrepreneurs through:

• Business incubation and coaching
• Workforce development initiatives
• Culinary education and certifications
• Access to shared commercial kitchen space

Through her leadership, MS KICK continues to serve as a launchpad for small businesses that contribute to the local economy.

Representing MS KICK & SUSLA on a Bigger Stage

Being named a Celebrity Chef Honoree for the 23rd Annual GCC places Monique among a distinguished group of culinary leaders. She will proudly represent:

• MS KICK as a hub for entrepreneurial growth
• Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) as a leader in workforce and economic development

This moment highlights the connection between MS KICK’s mission and real-world success, showcasing how investment in entrepreneurs leads to measurable community impact.

Cooking with Purpose

The Gentleman’s Cooking Classic is more than a culinary event, it’s a celebration of culture, philanthropy, and community engagement. As a Celebrity Chef, Monique will bring her signature creativity and bold flavors to the table while connecting with fellow chefs and supporters.

Her participation embodies the mission of MS KICK: to cultivate talent, create opportunity, and transform passion into sustainable businesses.

A Win for the Entire MS KICK Community

This honor belongs not only to Monique, but to the entire MS KICK network which includes tenants, partners, students, and supporters who continue to build and grow together.

From Foodie Fest to vendor pop-ups, from Kids Kooking in the Kitchen to workforce training initiatives, this recognition reinforces what MS KICK represents:
Innovation, Opportunity, and Community Impact.

As Monique takes the stage at the 23rd Annual Gentleman’s Cooking Classic, she carries the spirit of MS KICK, bold, resilient, and built for impact.